When Lips Lose Their Loveliness: The Truth About Cracked Lips
Our lips are distractingly lovely. They are soft, full, and can be painted in a range of hues from baby pink to fiery red. However, when these sensual and photogenic body parts become dry and cracked, we're reminded that they serve a much less exciting purpose than simply looking good.
The Causes of Cracked Lips
Cracked lips, also known as chapped lips, can happen to anyone at any time. However, certain factors increase the risk of experiencing dryness and cracking. For example, exposure to cold weather or wind can dehydrate the lips, as can excessive sun exposure. Dehydration is another common cause of chapped lips, which can happen if you don't drink enough water or spend too much time in a dry environment.
Medically, cracked lips can also be a sign of an underlying condition. For example, eczema, psoriasis, and nutritional deficiencies are all known to cause chapped lips. Certain medications, such as chemotherapy drugs or acne medications, can also cause dryness and cracking of the lips.
The Symptoms of Cracked Lips
It's easy to recognize the telltale signs of chapped lips. The skin on the lips will become dry, flaky, and may even feel tender or painful. In severe cases, the lips can even crack and bleed. The condition can also cause a burning sensation, especially when eating salty or spicy foods.
The Treatment of Cracked Lips
Thankfully, most cases of chapped lips can be remedied quickly and easily. The best way to prevent cracked lips is to keep them moisturized. You can do this by using a lip balm, preferably one that contains SPF to protect against sun damage. Look for lip balms that contain natural ingredients such as beeswax or shea butter, as these are less likely to cause irritation.
For severe cases of chapped lips, you may need to use a medicated lip balm or ointment. These products contain ingredients such as hydrocortisone or glycerin, which can help soothe and heal the skin. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to treat an underlying condition that is causing the chapped lips.
In conclusion, while chapped lips may not be the sexiest topic, they are an issue that affects most of us at one time or another. By taking simple precautions such as staying hydrated and using a moisturizing lip balm, you can keep your lips looking (and feeling) their best.