Dry, cracked lips? It could be sunburn, yeast infection, vitamin deficiencies or something else – here’s how to fix them
- The lips are particularly prone to dryness because the skin is very thin there, they are constantly exposed to the elements and they don’t have any sweat glands
- We asked two experts how to fix causes including dehydration, sunburn, yeast infection and vitamin deficiencies, and when to go to a doctor
Nearly everyone has experienced dry, cracked or tight-feeling lips.
In fact, “the lips are particularly prone to dryness as opposed to skin on other parts of the body”, says Dr Brian Toy, a US-based dermatologist and a clinical professor in the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California.
This is because the skin on your lips is thin, so it’s more sensitive. It is also constantly exposed to the elements, as opposed to body parts like feet that are usually protected by shoes or socks. And it doesn’t have any sweat glands, which secrete oils that keep the skin moisturised and protected.
Anyone can experience dry lips, but certain environmental factors, behaviours and vitamin deficiencies can make you more prone to dry lips, says Dr Nkem Ugonabo, a dermatologist with Unionderm, a US-based cosmetic dermatology group.
Here’s what might be contributing to your dry lips, and how to get rid of dry, cracked and uncomfortable lips for good.
1. Dehydration
Since the skin on your lips is thinner than the skin in other areas of your body, it can show the signs of dehydration first. So if you’re experiencing dryness and cracking, a good first step is to make sure you’re drinking enough water.
