Lips may become chapped for a variety of reasons. These include:

• Exposure to wind, sun (summer), cold and dry air (winter)
• Obstructed nose breathing, which forces you to mouth breathe.
• Contact dermatitis to cosmetics or skin-care products
• Certain medications, such as those used to treat acne.
• A habit of frequently licking your lips.
• Dehydration.

Think of your lips as a sponge; “When exposed to moisture, they absorb water and plump up. When dehydrated, they dry out and shrink”. During winter: because they’re always exposed, they’re prone to dehydration, particularly during the cold, windy winter months. During summer: Lips are susceptible to sunburn since they lack melanin, the pigment that helps shield skin from the sun. Apply a layer of a sun-protective product daily to protect your lips. To treat or prevent chapped lips, consider these tips:

• Use an oil-based lubricating cream, such as Aquaphor, or lip balm containing petrolatum or beeswax. • Apply lip cream, balm or lipstick before going out in cold, dry weather. Reapply several times while outside. • Choose a lip cream or balm that contains sunscreen. Sun exposure contributes to chapped lips. • Avoid licking your lips. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips drier than before. • Avoid using a flavored lip balm, which can tempt you to lick your lips. • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Dehydration can contribute to chapped lips. • Use a humidifier at home to keep air moist.

If chapping is severe and self-care measures don’t seem to help, consult your doctor. Rarely, persistent chapped lips may indicate an underlying problem, such as dermatitis.