Dry Lips

[rod905]

Hello,
For the past couple of months my lips have been extremely dry and have been scabbing. One day I woke up and noticed it, since then it's never went away. I always wear chapstick and that did nothing, then I tried Carmex which also did nothing, shea butter chapstick, 100% shea butter, aquaphor, and I had even started taking Vitamin B because I know that could have been the problem as well, but all these products I just mentioned did nothing for me. The dryness even goes a little further above my lips (facial skin), and they sometimes burn a little when I put products on them. I don't lick my lips that much, if at all. Also I don't really kiss and etc. etc. I'm kind of getting a little scared because I'm thinking it could be something that's happening on the inside of my body. ANY suggestions or similar stories and what worked would be greatly appreciated.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like cheilitis lips and is common in people with other skin conditions like eczema. Certain medications, like those used to treat acne and allergies to cosmetics and skin-care products, can also contribute to dry and irritated lips.
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. Eat foods high in calcium, magnesium and flaxseed oil. If a week of compresses and emollients don't do the trick, you can add over-the-counter 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment to your regimen.

If the symptoms are severe then get an evaluation done from a dermatologist.
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 and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[teko]

Do you sleep with your mouth open and do you lick your lips without realizing it when out in the elements? Try rubbing some plain ole castor oil on them at bedtime, should be better by morning.

[iRock_iRoll]

i saw on doctor oz that a warm green tea bag will help sooth and heal chapped lips and skin. i still havent tried it but if you try it i really hope it helps.