Easing the Pain of Cracked Lips
Posted on 5/1/2025 by DeLuca, Ressel, & Congemi Dental Care |
 Cracked lips can be a real nuisance, causing pain, discomfort, and even bleeding. While they're often a minor inconvenience, they can sometimes be a sign of a more serious problem. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent and treat cracked lips, and keep your smile healthy and comfortable.
Why are my lips cracked?
Cracked lips are caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Cold weather: The cold, dry air can strip your lips of their natural moisture, leaving them dry and prone to cracking. |
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Sun exposure: Like your skin, your lips can also be damaged by the sun's harmful UV rays. This can lead to dryness, cracking, and even skin cancer. |
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Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can also dry out your lips and make them more likely to crack. |
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Licking your lips: This may seem counterintuitive, but licking your lips actually dries them out further. Your saliva quickly evaporates, taking moisture with it. |
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Medications: Certain medications can also cause dry lips as a side effect. |
How can I prevent cracked lips?
Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to prevent cracked lips:
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Drink plenty of water: Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day to stay hydrated and keep your lips moist. |
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Use lip balm: Apply lip balm regularly, especially in cold or windy weather. Look for lip balms with SPF protection to guard against sun damage. |
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Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your home can help add moisture to the air and prevent dryness. |
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Avoid licking your lips: As tempting as it may be, avoid licking your lips, as this can make them even drier. |
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Protect your lips from the sun: Apply sunscreen to your lips before spending time outdoors, especially during the summer months. |
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Eat a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help keep your skin and lips healthy and hydrated. |
How can I treat cracked lips?
If your lips are already cracked, there are a few things you can do to treat them:
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Apply petroleum jelly: Petroleum jelly can help create a barrier to seal in moisture and promote healing. |
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Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream: This can help reduce inflammation and discomfort. |
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Warm compress: Applying a warm compress to your lips can help soften them and make it easier to apply ointment. |
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Avoid irritants: Avoid using harsh soaps, detergents, and cosmetics on your lips, as these can further irritate them. |
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See a doctor: If your lips are severely cracked or don't improve with home treatment, see your doctor or dentist to rule out any underlying medical conditions. |
Conclusion
By following these tips, you can prevent and treat cracked lips and keep your smile healthy and comfortable. Remember, prevention is key. So, take care of your lips by staying hydrated, using lip balm, and protecting them from the sun. And if you do experience cracked lips, there are simple remedies to help you find relief.
Oral Care and Prevention Dentistry
Taking care of your lips is an important part of good oral care. By following the tips above, you can prevent cracked lips and keep your smile healthy. Additionally, regular dental checkups are important for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can check for any signs of oral cancer, gum disease, or other problems, and help you develop a personalized oral care routine.
If you have any questions about cracked lips or oral health in general, please don't hesitate to ask your dentist. They are there to help you maintain a healthy smile for life.
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