What causes dry and cracked lips despite drinking plenty of water?
Apr 07, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Dry and cracked lips despite drinking plenty of water may be caused by external environmental factors, excessive lip licking, or nutritional deficiencies. Dry climate, strong winds, and low temperatures can cause the lips to lose moisture, leading to dryness and cracking even when adequate water is consumed. To help, maintain indoor air humidity by using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water indoors.
Even with increased water intake, dry and chapped lips may still occur due to factors such as environmental conditions, excessive lip licking, or nutritional deficiencies.
1. Environmental Factors
Dry climates, strong winds, and low temperatures can cause the lips to lose moisture, leading to chapped lips despite drinking plenty of water. To help, maintain indoor humidity by using a humidifier or placing a bowl of water indoors.
2. Excessive Lip Licking
Frequently licking the lips strips away natural moisture, resulting in dryness and cracking even with adequate hydration. Avoid this habit and use moisturizing products such as lip balm or lip oil to soothe and protect the lips.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential nutrients like vitamins B2, B6, B12, and iron can also lead to persistent lip dryness unrelieved by drinking water. Include more nutrient-rich foods in your diet, such as lean meats, eggs, legumes, and leafy green vegetables.
Besides the above causes, chapped lips may also be related to oral ulcers. If lip dryness is severe or persists for a prolonged period, seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment.
