Monthly problem with extremely dry lips

For the last several months my lips get very dry and cracked and also peel. I also get a slight rash around the outside all the way around and it looks like I'm wearing copper colored lipstick. It is painful and itchy, but seems to only happen for about 1 to 1.5 weeks a month (during the 2nd week  or so of my monthly cycle). Any ideas?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
These can be due to cheilitis or perioral dermatitis. Avoid licking the lips as saliva evaporates quickly resulting in them being drier than before. Drink plenty of water and take multivitamin supplements and do not apply lipstick or other cosmetic products for some days. Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in your home and apply shea butter or Vaseline on your lips.

If the symptoms persist then you may need topical antibiotics around the lips area.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care.