Do you have dry, flaky lips? This is a common symptom that most people attribute to dry skin. While dry skin can be a cause of lip flaking, particularly in the cold, dry months of winter, this isn’t the only reason lips can flake. If slathering on moisture and lip balm isn’t solving the problem, you may want to consider another cause. In some cases, flaking lips can be due to a condition called cheilitis or eczema of the lips.
What Are the Symptoms of Cheilitis?
Dry, flaky lips that peel and crack are only one symptom of cheilitis. It can also cause swelling, burning, and itching of the lips, although all of these symptoms don’t have to be present. Cheilitis is an inflammatory condition which can become chronic, so it can be a challenge to get rid of; and it’s not uncommon for it to last a year or longer. Some people with cheilosis have a history of allergic skin problems, but this isn’t always the case.
What Causes Flaky Lips Associated With Cheilitis?
In some cases, cheilitis may be due to an allergic reaction to a lip product. One of the most common causes is lipstick and lip balm, so it’s not surprising this condition is more common in females. Allergic reactions can occur to a variety of components in lipstick, but one of the most common offenders is a lipstick coloring agent known as eosin.
Another common cause of the flaky lips of cheilitis is a reaction to toothpastes and mouthwashes. There are a variety of ingredients in these products that can bring on cheilitis and even natural toothpastes and mouthwashes can cause problems. When a reaction occurs to a natural toothpaste or mouthwash, it’s usually due to one of the natural flavorings or essential oils. Peppermint and cinnamon flavored toothpastes and mouthwashes are two frequent offenders.
Cheilitis also occurs more frequently in people who repeatedly lick their lips. Usually flaky lips are initially brought on by an irritant such as a toothpaste and made worse by repeated lip licking. This can set up a vicious cycle where the constantly licking makes the flaky lips worse which increases the desire to lick.
Some medications can also cause the flaky lips of cheilitis including chemotherapy drugs and topical retinoids used for acne. In rare cases, a vitamin or mineral deficiency can be the cause.
How Do You Treat Cheilitis?
It’s important to review any new cosmetics, lip products, or toothpastes you began using before the symptoms appeared. Try eliminating lipsticks and lip balms for several weeks and see if the symptoms improve. It may also be helpful to switch to a natural, unflavored toothpaste for a few weeks and stop using mouthwash. Avoid using any cosmetics around the mouth or lip area. Flaky lips may improve with the use of a low dose, over-the-counter steroid cream, but this should only be used for short periods of time. If the symptoms fail to improve, it’s best to see a dermatologist.
References:
The Merck Manual 18th Edition
