Why do lips crack and peel, and what can you do about it? Expert advice

Cheilitis is an isolated inflammatory process in the area of ​​the mucous membrane, skin and red border of the lips. Outwardly it looks like swelling with redness and peeling of tissue. It can be an independent disease or a symptomatic manifestation of other pathologies. Sooner or later, almost every person encounters it, but at a young age the disease is noticeably milder, recurs less often and has no complications. In older people, due to a weakened immune system, periodic relapses of cheilitis can cause malignant tissue degeneration.

Causes

Cheilitis is a polymorphic and multifactorial disease that can be triggered by infections, physical and chemical environmental factors, as well as internal characteristics of the body. Among them:

• constant exposure to the open air - inflammation and peeling of the lips occurs when chapped by hot or cold air, excessive insolation;
• the presence of chronic diseases with skin manifestations of symptoms - various types of dermatitis, psoriasis, lupus erythematosus, lichen planus, syphilis, etc.;
• allergic reactions of the body - mainly with food allergies;
• tissue irritation from regular exposure to chemicals, including medications (for example, nasal drops);
• various neurological disorders, severe stressful situations, depression, constant anxiety;
• endocrine abnormalities - primarily hyperfunction of the thyroid gland, diabetes mellitus.

Signs of deficiency

Both children and adults encounter unpleasant phenomena. Doctors call redness, soreness and peeling with one term - cheilitis.

Signs of this defect include:

• redness;
• burning sensation;
• cracks with edges turning into scales;
• tightness and swelling;
• discomfort;
• flaking crusts, bloody or white;
• tingling when drinking drinks and food;
• jams in corners;
• constant thirst.

It is important to figure out the cause of dry lip skin as quickly as possible. Perhaps the deficiency is caused by a common cold or improper daily care.

Types of cheilitis

Manifestations of cheilitis may vary depending on the type and cause of the disease. There are:

• Exfoliative cheilitis - manifested by peeling of the red border of the lips, with rare areas of burning and dryness of the lips themselves.
• Exudative cheilitis - symptoms of the disease are supplemented by swelling and severe pain. The skin in inflamed areas may become covered with baked crusts, which greatly complicate the patient’s life.
• The glandular form affects the minor salivary glands. Their congenital or acquired proliferation is observed, followed by infection with bacteria. In this case, the source of infection can be caries, periodontitis or banal plaque. Outwardly it manifests itself as the formation of cracks on the surface of the lips, which begin to become wet over time.
• The allergic form occurs under the influence of household, cosmetic or food irritants (often this is lipstick). There are characteristic manifestations of allergic cheilitis in musicians who play wind instruments and in those who like to chew pencils. This type of inflammation is characterized by severe swelling, often with the formation of blisters, as well as itching, severe redness and burning.
• Meteorological cheilitis develops under the influence of weather conditions (wind, sun) and is manifested by burning, itching with small weeping blisters, in place of which erosions and ulcers form over time.
• The atopic form manifests itself as a symptom of dermatitis or neurodermatitis. Manifests itself in the form of redness and ulcers in the corners of the lips.
• The hypovitaminosis type of the disease is formed in response to a severe lack of vitamins, mainly vitamins A, C, B2. A characteristic burning sensation affects the surface of the lips, mouth and tongue. The mucous tissues take on a swollen appearance, cracks on the lips peel and bleed.
• Macrocheilitis is a response to damage to adjacent nerves (facial nerve neuritis), while itching and swelling from the tongue can spread to other parts of the face.

Attention! With a long course, there is a high probability of inflammation degenerating into a malignant neoplasm. This is especially typical for the meteorological form, which, in the absence of proper treatment, is often complicated by precancerous diseases.

What should beautiful and healthy lips look like?

Beautiful and healthy lips are characterized by the following signs:

• evenness and smoothness of the skin;
• symmetry of the corners of the mouth;
• the presence of a pink or red tint to the lips;
• absence of peeling, cracks and purse-string wrinkles;
• convex volume of the labial border;
• absence of jams, pigmentation and pathological manifestations.

It is also important to pay attention to the presence of a hollow above the upper lip and a cupid's arch, which should be clearly defined.

Diagnosis of cheilitis

There are no specific laboratory tests to detect cheilitis. All diagnosis of the disease is carried out by visual examination. To determine the causes of inflammation, diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract may be prescribed for the presence of Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Additionally, allergy tests are performed to exclude food allergies.

General laboratory tests allow you to check the condition of the body and determine the possible causes of cheilitis:

• low levels of vitamins due to hypovitaminosis can provoke exfoliative cheilitis;
• bacterial cultures of smears and biopsies are performed in patients with immune system disorders in the absence of results from the treatment;
• testing for markers of HIV infection, herpes, the presence of fungal or bacterial microflora, respectively, allows us to identify the viral, bacterial or fungal causative agent of cheilitis;
• a blood test for anemia, ESR are required to assess general health;
• examination of the function of the thyroid and pancreas for endocrine pathologies.

On a note! Cheilitis tends to be chronic with periodic relapses. Self-healing without medical supervision is almost impossible, so try to pay attention to such a “minor” problem and consult a specialist. Diagnosis of the disease is carried out by a general practitioner or attending dentist. In some cases, consultation with an allergist, infectious diseases specialist, dermatovenerologist or gastroenterologist may be required.

Possible complications

Failure to see a doctor in a timely manner often causes serious complications. The disease itself often does not pose a serious health risk. But only an experienced specialist can tell you how to treat cheilitis. Self-medication can lead to unpleasant consequences and provoke the occurrence of a chronic form of the disease. In addition, cheilitis is dangerous because its symptoms can mask malignant tumor processes. It is important to remember that some forms are prone to malignancy - cheilitis may be followed by precancerous conditions.

Treatment

Different forms of cheilitis differ in their approach to treatment. Collectively, the impact may include:

• correction of the psycho-emotional sphere - a neurologist prescribes sedatives, tranquilizers, a psychologist or psychotherapist conducts appropriate psychotherapy;
• physiotherapy - treatment with laser, ultrasound, magnetotherapy, electrophoresis is prescribed locally; they relieve irritation and accelerate tissue regeneration;
• drug symptomatic therapy - non-hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed; in case of severe inflammation - hormonal drugs;
• immunotherapy – strengthen the immune system by taking immunomodulators and immunostimulants;
• vitamin therapy - taking vitamins A, C, group B (mainly vitamin B2) is of great importance;
• surgical treatment – ​​typical for glandular cheilitis with enlargement of the salivary glands; Both laser ablation with a surgical laser and direct removal of areas of the gland are used;
• antiallergic therapy with antihistamines.

Additionally, the doctor may prescribe diet therapy with the exclusion of foods that provoke allergies or chemical irritation of tissues (spicy foods, saltiness and marinades). When staying outdoors for a long time, it is imperative to use special protective equipment.

Pharmacy products

Many representatives of the fair sex protect their hands from the cold with Vaseline. The same product can be applied to the lips.

Before going outside, cover sensitive areas with a thin layer of ointment.

There are other drugs that can be purchased in pharmacies:

1. Boro+. The cream contains extracts of medicinal herbs that restore the structure of the epidermis, promote the healing of damage, and eliminate peeling.
2. Glycerol. It is one of the best moisturizers of natural origin. Activates regeneration, eliminates tightness. Glycerin protects against negative factors and vagaries of the weather - heat, wind, frost. It is enough to use just a couple of drops at night.
3. Sunscreens. It is important to properly protect your skin from the scorching sun. If you are planning a trip to the beach or a trip to a hot country, you need to get special products with SPF. The cream is applied to the lips daily.
4. Nivea. A whole line of products from this brand is designed to protect the skin in cold weather. The products are sold not only in pharmacies, but also in cosmetic stores and shopping centers.
5. DNS. A domestic brand of cosmetics, known for its wonderful effect on the skin, eyebrows, eyelashes, lips. The nutrients included in cosmetics smooth out skin texture and heal cracks.
6. EOS. Balms from this manufacturer have gained wide popularity among the fair sex. The products have a healing and cosmetic effect.

The listed remedies will help get rid of dry lip skin, burning, flaking, and damage.

Balms are used instead of lipstick, and they do not lead to increased dryness, but saturate the skin with nourishing ingredients.

Prevention

The main prevention of cheilitis is maintaining a healthy lifestyle and timely treatment of any infectious and allergic diseases. Basic list of measures:

• Eat right - a balanced menu should contain an abundance of fruits, vegetables, herbs, nuts, fish, and high-quality dairy products.
• Reduce the use of cosmetics - try to choose hypoallergenic formulations and constantly monitor the skin's reaction.
• Dose your exposure to open wind or direct sunlight.
• Protect your lip skin from physical and chemical damage.
• Take vitamin and mineral complexes periodically in courses (after consultation with your doctor).
• Give up bad habits.
• Seek medical advice promptly if you have characteristic symptoms.

Remember: your health is the greatest value, and constant monitoring of its condition is very important to maintain the body’s performance, especially in old age.

Lip treatments in Moscow

Therefore, in situations where you need help in restoring or correcting your lips, it is better to contact Dr. Korchagina’s clinic.

We offer you only the best and most effective procedures:

• lip augmentation and correction with hyaluronic acid – a minimally invasive injection technology based on the introduction of fillers with hyaluronate; manipulation helps to correct the shape of the lips, as well as eliminate dryness, peeling and pallor of the lip border;
• Botox injections - botulinum toxin injections block muscle contractions, which allows you to keep the skin of the lips smooth without creases and wrinkles;
• lip contouring – subcutaneous injection of filler gels ensures enlargement, smoothing of the lip contour, elimination of purse-string wrinkles and folds in the corners of the mouth;
• permanent lip makeup – tattooing evens out color, makes lips voluminous and bright, eliminating congenital defects and minor imperfections.

The selection of the optimal method for lip restoration is carried out taking into account the individual characteristics and skin condition of the patient.

To make an appointment for a consultation and procedures at the Korchagina clinic, write to us on the website or call us by phone.

Traditional recipes (5 best options)

If dry lip skin begins to crack in winter, you need to urgently decide what to do about such an annoying drawback.

You can use the tools that are found in every home:

1. Vaseline and castor oil. A cotton swab is soaked in castor oil, then it must be carefully passed over the lips. Vaseline is spread over the top with a thin layer. To restore damage, the procedure is repeated for 7 days.
2. Honey. Apply to the skin with a finger previously moistened with water to prevent the product from sticking. Honey can kill germs, moisturize, and saturate tissues with nutrients.
3. Aloe vera. This popular plant is valued for its unique medicinal properties. You can apply gel with aloe extract to your lips or apply a juicy leaf. Especially relevant for use in cases of increased dryness and sunburn.
4. Butter without salt. Another safe natural moisturizer. It is enough to lightly rub your lips with a slice of butter twice a day. If the product contains salt, it will harm your skin.
5. Water. One of the reasons for excessive dryness of the face and lips may be dehydration of the entire body. This means that a person does not drink enough drinking water. It is impossible to make up for the deficiency with soda, tea, coffee or juice. Sometimes the listed drinks lead to the opposite effect. To restore water balance, you need to drink at least 1.5 - 2 liters of water per day.

If all the remedies have been tried and there is no positive result, it’s time to visit a doctor. Perhaps the cause of dryness lies in anemia or lack of iron.

Vegetarians often suffer from such disorders, because the main source of this microelement is meat.

Signs of iron deficiency are chronic fatigue, frequent headaches, deep cracks and peeling on the lips.

To compensate for the deficiency of essential substances, you should take vitamin complexes containing iron.

Another way to treat dry lips is to use humidifiers. Clean, enriched air is good for health and has a beneficial effect on appearance.

Proper care (4 stages)

To prevent your lips from drying out, you need to surround them with care and attention.

With proper regular care, you will never know what tightness, cracks, or jams are. Daily care includes 4 stages.

Cleansing

Twice a day, dirt, decorative cosmetics, and dust are removed from the skin.

The procedure is carried out using a cotton pad moistened with micellar water, lotion, nourishing cream or any other makeup remover with a plant base.

If none of the above is at hand, plain warm water will do.

Exfoliation

Peeling is necessary for deep cleansing of the epidermis. The procedure will be especially relevant in the presence of peeling.

Soft cosmetic preparations are suitable. Exfoliation is carried out once a week to remove dead skin cells.

Massage

Performed together with peeling, as well as daily, as an independent procedure. The ideal massage is carried out with a soft toothbrush for a few minutes.

It is carried out intensively, but carefully. The lips are first lubricated with cream or vegetable oil.

Hydration and nutrition

Both effects are achieved by daily use of hygienic lipstick or moisturizing gel. Almond, olive, and shea oils are good for this.

These substances provide hydration, nourish the skin, and accelerate wound healing.

Before going to bed, nourishing products are applied to the skin to saturate the tissues with vitamins and give it a velvety feel. Purchased products must have a special composition.

The most useful will be: fatty acids, peptides, herbal extracts, hyaluronic acid, vitamins B, A, E, plant oils.

Question answer

In any case, if dryness or inflammation progresses, you need to go to the doctor, as you may be developing the pathology of cheilitis. In this case, ulcers, bumps, plaques, and cracks will appear. If wounds appear in the corners, then a fungal disease may develop. If you have tried various methods to combat dryness, but have not noticed any effect, then you also need to visit a doctor, since dryness in this area often occurs with psoriasis, pathologies of the endocrine system, and low hemoglobin levels.

In such a situation, it is useful to use beeswax, coconut oil, aloe vera, olives, and shea butter.

Today you can find many balms on sale. It is recommended to try different options to choose the right product. For example, balms from Vichy, LA ROCHE-POSAY, BIOTHERM are very popular. But there are many other worthy companies producing lip care products that show good results. Pay attention to glosses and balms that contain vitamins A and E.