What Causes Dry, Cracked Lips?

Dry lips are irritating, painful and unattractive. But what causes dry, cracked lips and what can be done about it? Below are some possible causes of dry, cracked lips and some suggestions to help you avoid or heal dry lips.

Dehydration can cause dry cracked lips

Is your mouth also dry? Do you have low energy? Dry cracked lips can be caused by dehydration. If dehydration is the cause the only way to get lasting relief from dry cracked lips is to drink more fluids. If you don't drink enough water because you do not like it, try adding flavoring such as Crystal Light to water to make it taste better.

Dry cracked lips can be caused by Lipstick

Some lipsticks can dry out lips and cause them to crack. Try using lipsticks that have moisturizer in them, or apply a lip balm before the lipstick. You might also consider using tented lip balms; they are gentler on the lips and can still provide the color you want.

Wind can cause dry cracked lips

If you spend a lot of time out in the wind, especially in cold dry weather, it can cause dry cracked lips. It's important to wear a lip balm if you are constantly exposed to this kind of weather. Don't wear the flavored lip balm. Use a medicated lip balm such as Chapstick Medicated Lip Balm, Blue Bird Medicated Lip Balm with SPF 15, or Blistex.

Biting or Licking your lips can cause dry cracked lips

If you tend to chew on or lick your lips a lot this can also cause dry cracked lips. Take an hour to consciously notice when you are doing this. Stop yourself every time you start to chew on or lick your lips. It's tedious, but if you can learn to break this habit, the dry cracked lips should heal.

Wearing a medicated lip balm is also a great way to prevent yourself from chewing on or licking your lips. The lip balm doesn't taste good and you won't want it in your mouth.

Dry cracked lips can be caused by Cold Sores

If you have a cold sore it can also cause you to have dry cracked lips. In this case cold sore treatment is necessary to fix the condition.

If you have dry cracked lips, it's usually caused by one or more of the above things. Dry cracked lips, however, can result from other conditions as well. If you try all these suggestions and still have dry cracked lips, it's a good idea to see your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.