Lip Issues: Causes and Solutions for Cracked Lips

Lip issues

Hello, Doctor.
Since the year before last, my lips have been cracking whenever there is a change in weather (such as rain or colder temperatures).
Sometimes, the corners of my mouth also crack and bleed.
I previously consulted a dermatologist who diagnosed me with angular cheilitis but could not explain the issue with the lip epithelium.
They mentioned hormonal imbalances and advised me to reduce oil and salt in my diet, maintain a regular schedule, and supplement with vitamin B2, but after making these adjustments for a while, I saw no improvement.
Interestingly, I did not experience these symptoms when my lifestyle was actually more irregular in the past.
The only significant event I can think of is that I was eight weeks pregnant and then underwent an abortion around that time.
Therefore, I am inquiring whether there might be any internal medicine-related explanations for my condition.
I would greatly appreciate your response.
Thank you very much.

Xuan, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/07

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description, it seems that you are experiencing chapped lips, which can be attributed to individual physiological factors.
Many people have lower sebum production, making them more prone to this condition.
Adjusting your daily habits and supplementing with vitamins can provide some improvement, and using lip balm can help alleviate the dryness.
Additionally, if you occasionally notice blisters around your lips that may be slightly painful or itchy, it could be a herpes virus infection, which would require treatment with antiviral ointment.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2020/09/07

More Info

Cracked lips, also known as cheilitis, can be a frustrating and painful condition that many people experience, especially during changes in weather. The symptoms you describe, such as the skin on your lips splitting and the corners of your mouth cracking and bleeding, can be attributed to several underlying causes. Understanding these causes can help in finding effective solutions.

Causes of Cracked Lips
1. Environmental Factors: Changes in weather, particularly cold or dry conditions, can lead to dehydration of the skin, including the lips. Wind, low humidity, and exposure to harsh elements can strip moisture from the lips, leading to cracks.

2. Dehydration: Insufficient hydration can cause the skin to lose its elasticity and moisture, resulting in dryness and cracking. It's essential to drink plenty of water, especially during dry seasons.

3. Nutritional Deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins (like B2, B3, and B12), zinc, and iron, can contribute to lip health. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help mitigate these deficiencies.

4. Skin Conditions: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or contact dermatitis can affect the lips, leading to dryness and cracking. If you have a history of skin issues, this could be a contributing factor.

5. Allergic Reactions: Sometimes, lip products, toothpaste, or even certain foods can cause allergic reactions that lead to inflammation and cracking. Identifying and avoiding allergens is crucial.

6. Infections: Fungal or bacterial infections can also lead to issues like angular cheilitis, which affects the corners of the mouth. This condition can cause painful cracks and may require medical treatment.

7. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during pregnancy or menstrual cycles, can affect skin hydration and elasticity. You mentioned experiencing a miscarriage, which can lead to hormonal imbalances that might contribute to your symptoms.

Solutions and Management
1. Hydration: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. Keeping your body hydrated is essential for maintaining skin moisture.

2. Moisturizing: Use a good quality lip balm that contains emollients and humectants. Look for products with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, or lanolin, which can help lock in moisture.

3. Dietary Adjustments: Incorporate foods rich in B vitamins, zinc, and iron into your diet. Foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and lean meats can help improve your nutritional status.

4. Avoid Irritants: Identify and avoid any products that may be irritating your lips. This includes certain lipsticks, flavored lip balms, or even toothpaste with strong flavors.

5. Sun Protection: Protect your lips from sun exposure by using lip balms with SPF. Sunburn can exacerbate dryness and cracking.

6. Consult a Dermatologist: Since you have seen a dermatologist before, it may be beneficial to return for a follow-up. They can assess your condition more thoroughly and may suggest topical treatments or medications if necessary.

7. Consider a Humidifier: If you live in a dry climate or during winter months, using a humidifier in your home can help maintain moisture levels in the air, benefiting your skin and lips.

8. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of when your symptoms worsen and any potential triggers. This can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and make more informed decisions about treatment.

In conclusion, cracked lips can result from a combination of environmental, nutritional, and physiological factors. By addressing hydration, nutrition, and potential irritants, you can significantly improve your lip health. If symptoms persist despite these measures, further evaluation by a healthcare professional is warranted to rule out any underlying conditions.

Similar Q&A

Understanding and Treating Dry, Cracked Lips: Causes and Solutions

My lips become very dry and white after a while, especially at the corners, to the point that it hurts to open my mouth. However, it eventually gets better on its own (I don't apply any medication). Is this normal? How should I manage it? My mom suggests applying Vaseline; i...

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology
Chapped lips may require attention to whether you are consuming irritating foods, using lipsticks or lip balms that may cause allergic reactions, or if there is a dietary imbalance leading to vitamin deficiencies. Additionally, consider if you are spending time in air-conditioned...

Understanding Chronic Lip Cracking and Pain: Causes and Solutions

Hello: My father is a laborer who works long hours under the sun and has habits of chewing betel nut, smoking, and drinking alcohol. A few years ago, he noticed that the skin on his lips was white, dry, and painful. He went to the hospital for examination, but no cause was found....

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
October of Filial Piety: Your father's lip issue may be actinic keratosis, which is a precancerous condition of the skin. It is best to have a biopsy done at the hospital. Another possibility is chronic contact dermatitis. You must do everything you can to take him to the ho...

How to Treat Chapped Lips: Effective Solutions for Dryness and Peeling

I have been experiencing dry, peeling lips for about a year. I'm not sure how to improve this condition.

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology
Chapped lips can be caused not only by dry environmental conditions but also by lipsticks or sun exposure leading to skin inflammation. It is advisable to stop using the current lipstick and to minimize UV exposure. Instead, use a moisturizing lip balm that contains sunscreen ing...

Understanding Recurring Inflammation: Lip Issues and Treatment Options

Hello Doctor, my lips have been consistently experiencing recurrent redness, swelling, and peeling. Additionally, I get cold sores approximately once a month (which I have shown to a doctor). After healing, the peeling and redness start again daily, and it feels like it has never...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun reply Dermatology
Hello: 1. First and foremost, absolutely do not lick or bite your lips, meaning do not allow saliva to come into contact with your lips, as saliva can be very damaging to them. 2. Stop using toothpaste, as it may also be an irritant or allergen. The correct brushing technique is ...