Do you have dry, hairy lips? This is a common symptom that most people give to dry skin. While dry skin can be a cause of lip flaking, especially in the cold, dry winter months, this is not the only reason for chapped lips. it can be fluffy. If cutting into moisture and lip balm is not resolving, you may want to consider another issue. In some cases, chapped lips can be caused by a condition called cheilitis or scabies of the lips.
What are the symptoms of Cheilitis?
Dry, flaky lips lips that peel and crack are just one symptom of cheilitis. It can also cause swelling, burning, and itching of the lips, although all of these are not present. Cheilitis is an inflammatory condition that can become chronic without a challenge; and it is not uncommon for it to last a year or longer. Some people with cheilosis have a history of allergic skin problems, but this is not always the case.
What Causes Flaky Lips Associated with Cheilitis?
In some cases, cheilitis can be caused by allergic-reactions to the lip. Among the most common causes is lipstick and lip balm, so it is not surprising that this condition is more common in women. Allergic reactions can occur to various elements in lipstick, but one of the most common culprits is the lipstick color agent known as Eosin.
Another common cause of scaly cheilitis on the lips is a reaction to toothpaste and mouthwashes. There are various ingredients in these products that can cause problems with cheilitis and even natural toothpaste and mouthwashes. When the action of natural toothpaste or mouthwash occurs, it is usually due to natural or essential oils. Peppermint and cinnamon flavored toothpastes and mouthwashes are two frequent offenders.
It also occurs frequently in Cheilitis, who often lick their lips. Generally, chapped lips are initially caused by the irritation of toothpaste, and are made worse by frequent lip licking. This can set up a vicious cycle where constant licking makes the scaly lips worse which increases the desire to lick.
Certain medications can also cause hair cheilitis lips, including chemotherapy drugs and topical retinoids used for acne. In rare cases, the cause can be vitamin or mineral deficiency.
How do you treat Cheilitis?
It is important to review new colors, lip products, or use toothpaste before symptoms appear. Try cutting out lipsticks and lip balm for a few weeks and see if your symptoms improve. It can also be helpful to change the toothpaste to natural toothpaste for a few weeks and stop using mouthwash. Avoid using any makeup around the mouth or lip area. Flaky lips can improve with the use of a low-dose, super-controversial steroid cream, but this should only be used for short periods of time. If symptoms stop improving, it is best to see a dermatologist.
Notes:
Merck Manual 18th Edition
