What causes persistent dryness and peeling of the lips?
Mar 03, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yan Min
Introduction
1. Physiological factors: This may result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, dehydration (inadequate body water), or habitual picky eating.
2. Pathological factors: Typically, this is chronic desquamative cheilitis—a subtype of chronic cheilitis—often caused by habitual lip-biting or other perioral irritative behaviors.
Dry lips are a very common phenomenon in daily life—especially during winter, when windy, cold, and dry weather lowers ambient humidity, making lips more prone to dehydration and dryness. Inadequate lip care can exacerbate dryness, leading to peeling, cracking, and fissures. So, what causes persistently dry, peeling lips? Below, we address this question.
Causes of Persistently Dry, Peeling Lips
Persistent dryness and peeling of the lips may stem from either physiological or pathological factors. Among pathological causes, chronic desquamative cheilitis is a notable example. Details follow:
1. Physiological Factors
Physiological causes may include prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation or systemic dehydration. Chronic selective eating (e.g., habitual food avoidance) may also contribute. These conditions can often be improved through lifestyle adjustments and typically do not require specific medical treatment. During management, patients should maintain cleanliness and hygiene of the perioral skin and apply lip balm regularly to moisturize. Additionally, prolonged deficiency of vitamin B complex can lead to chapped or peeling lips; patients are advised to increase intake of vegetables and fruits to help alleviate symptoms.
2. Pathological Factors
Pathologically, persistent dryness and peeling are commonly associated with chronic desquamative cheilitis—a subtype of chronic cheilitis. This condition may result from habitual lip-biting or poor dietary habits. Clinical manifestations include dryness, scaling, and pain of the lip skin. Topical treatment options include roxithromycin ointment or dexamethasone ointment. Systemic antihistamines—such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets or loratadine tablets—may also be prescribed. Without timely intervention, symptoms may worsen, potentially progressing to severe desquamation and even fissuring with bleeding.
We hope the above information is helpful to you.
