BEAUTY
Here’s What May Be Causing Your Chapped Lips
By VANESSA ELLE
Dehydration
Dehydration usually occurs because you’re either not consuming enough fluid or you’re losing too much. The weather and environment can also contribute to dehydration, so you might find that your chapped lips stem from hot, dry temperatures or even being exposed to the heater during winter.
Vitamin Deficiency
A lack of iron and vitamin B can both cause chapped lips. Both deficiencies are common and can be treated by consuming iron-rich foods like beans, seafood, and leafy veggies or rich sources of vitamin B like chickpeas, kidney beans, and broccoli.
Medical Conditions
If your lips are persistently chapped, it could be a sign of a medical condition, so it’s important to see a doctor if you’re concerned. Chapped lips can be an early symptom of low thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, as well as certain autoimmune disorders including Sjögren syndrome.
Allergic Reactions
Usually, those experiencing an allergic reaction will feel itchy around their lips and notice redness or irritation, but chapped skin and dryness are also common. Pay special attention to the products and objects that your lips come into contact with, as makeup and lip balm are common culprits of allergies.
Certain Medications
One of the most common medications that lead to chapped lips is oral retinoids, which ironically are used to treat a variety of skin disorders. Taking lithium can also cause chapped lips — try using a hydrating lip balm with healing properties to protect your lips while taking these medications.