Why do lips become dry and cracked as soon as winter arrives?

Chapped and cracked lips during winter may be related to dry weather, exposure to irritants, poor lifestyle and dietary habits, or chronic cheilitis. These issues can be improved through daily lifestyle adjustments, skincare, and moisturizing.

1. Dry climate

During winter, the cold and dry climate can easily lead to tightness and dryness of the lips, which lack sweat glands and are thus sensitive to environmental changes. Regular moisturizing measures, such as frequent application of lip balm, can help.

2. Exposure to irritants

If chapped lips result from contact with certain irritating substances—such as lipsticks, mouthwashes, toothpastes, or fragrances—avoid using these products.

3. Poor lifestyle and dietary habits

An unbalanced diet, frequent consumption of spicy, stimulating, or greasy foods, insufficient water intake, habitual lip licking, and regular late nights may contribute to dry, cracked lips. Increase fluid intake, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, avoid spicy and irritating foods, maintain a regular sleep schedule, and refrain from licking your lips.

4. Chronic cheilitis

Dry, cracked lips are commonly seen in cheilitis, especially chronic cheilitis. As directed by a physician, topical treatments such as 0.1% tacrolimus ointment or 1% pimecrolimus cream may be used. Additionally, applying liquid nitrogen cryotherapy to the affected areas of chronic cheilitis can also aid in recovery.

In daily life, drink plenty of water and maintain good sleep habits. When going outdoors, wear a mask or scarf to provide warmth and physical protection. Especially avoid lip-licking or lip-biting when lips are dry, as these behaviors can worsen symptoms.