Why do I have a rough patch on my upper lip?

Excessive or chronic exposure to shortwave UV-B rays, a type of ultraviolet radiation found in sunlight, can damage lip cell DNA and cause abnormalities. Actinic cheilitis occurs when these abnormalities cause dry, scaly patches to form on the border of the lip.

How do I get rid of a dry patch on my upper lip?

Apply a non-irritating lip balm (or lip moisturizer) several times a day and before bed. If your lips are very dry and cracked, try a thick ointment, such as white petroleum jelly. Ointment seals in water longer than waxes or oils. Slather on a non-irritating lip balm with SPF 30 or higher before going outdoors.

What is lip dermatitis?

Lip dermatitis, or eczematous cheilitis, is a type of eczema, a skin condition that can cause severe flare-ups on your skin. The cause of eczema is often unknown, but it may be linked to an allergy or an irritant, like frequently licking your lips. Genetics may also play a role in developing lip dermatitis.

Can seborrheic dermatitis affect lips?

Seborrheic dermatitis can occur on different body areas. It often forms where the skin is oily or greasy. Common areas include the scalp, eyebrows, eyelids, creases of the nose, lips, behind the ears, in the outer ear, and middle of the chest.

What is Baelz disease?

Baelz disease –> cheilitis glandularis. An acquired disorder, of unknown aetiology, of the lower lip characterised by swelling, ulceration, crusting, mucous gland hyperplasia, abscesses, and sinus tracts. Synonym: baelz disease, myxadenitis labialis, Volkmann’s cheilitis.

Can hydrocortisone cream be applied to lips?

Hydrocortisone is a topical steroid typically used to treat inflammation and irritation. This medicated healing treatment is perfect for those who constantly battle dry, chapped lips, delivering hydrocortisone deep into the skin to repair and heal cracked skin in a non-greasy, subtly vanilla-flavored formula.

What is cheilitis simplex?

Cheilitis simplex (chapped lips, common cheilitis, cheilitis sicca) is one of the most common subtypes, presenting as cracked lips, fissures or desquamation of the lips, usually of the lower lip (Fig. 1) (2, 7). Here frequent lip licking promotes dryness and irritation, ending in separation of the mucosa and cracking.

Should I see a dermatologist about my chapped lips?

If it doesn’t, see a board-certified dermatologist. Your chapped lips could be caused by something aside from dry weather. An allergic reaction, yeast infection, or something more serious can make your lips feel dry and uncomfortable. Actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition that turns one or both lips dry and scaly.

How do I get rid of chapped lips?

If you are already experiencing the painful side effects of chapped lips, then restoring the moisture barrier is critical. Use overnight lip masks, remain consistent with the use of lip balm and begin using products with SPF to begin to heal the delicate skin on your lips and prevent further damage.

How long does it take for chapped lips to heal?

Most of the time, the above self-care can heal dry, chapped lips in 2 to 3 weeks. If it doesn’t, see a board-certified dermatologist. Your chapped lips could be caused by something aside from dry weather. An allergic reaction, yeast infection, or something more serious can make your lips feel dry and uncomfortable.

Why are my lips always dry and chapped?

Lips don’t contain oil glands like other parts of the skin. This means lips are more susceptible to drying out and becoming chapped (cracked). Lack of moisture can make the problem worse, whether it’s weather-induced or related to a lack of self-care. Little humidity in the air during the winter months is known to cause chapped lips.