Why Chapped Lips Happen:

• Cold air and wind (especially in winter) dry out lips and surrounding skin
• Lips are more vulnerable because they lack oil glands
• Lip licking worsens dryness:
• Saliva contains digestive enzymes
• These enzymes irritate lips when saliva evaporates
• This creates a vicious cycle: dryness—licking—more dryness
• Irritating lip products:
  • Scented, flavored, or glitter lip balms can irritate sensitive skin
• Sun exposure:
  • UV rays can burn lips (even in the winter)
  • Risk increases during snow activities (e.g., skiing, sledding, snowboarding) due to sun reflection

How to Prevent Chapped Lips:

• Use a greasy, unscented lip balm or ointment daily
  • Apply several times per day
  • Petroleum jelly is an effective option
• Choose SPF-containing lip balm
  • Important year-round, especially during outdoor activities
• Encourage proper hydration
  • Drink enough water so urine is clear and odorless
• Reduce lip licking
  • Provide gentle reminders
  • Use reward systems
  • Offer substitutes (e.g., take a sip of water instead)

What to do if lips are already chapped:

• Increase frequency of ointment or balm application
• Avoid spicy or acidic foods that may cause irritation or pain
• Seek medical advice if:
  • Lips are cracked or bleeding
  • Signs of infection appear

Lip Licker Syndrome:

• Caused by repetitive, excessive lip licking
• Symptoms:
  • Red, dry, flaky rash around the mouth
  • Distinct pattern that become recognizable
• Treatment:
  • Break the licking habit (behavioral strategies)
  • Aggressive moisturizing
  • May require hydrocortisone cream as directed by provider

The Big Picture:

Chapped lips are common but preventable. Consistent moisturizing, sun protection, hydration, and breaking the lip-licking cycle are the most effective strategies to keep lips healthy during winter and beyond.