dry flaky lip (bottom)

[antib]

My bottom lip have been dry and flaky over the past week or two....I have been using lip balm and vaseline.  It works for about a day or two and as soon as I'm outside for awhile it's back again...I was taking Vitamin b12 and b6 but stopped for a while.  What could this be?  Can you give me some advice?

[antib]

Thanks, I will definitely try these as you have mentioned....antib

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Chapped lips is the drying and flaking of dehydrated lips and is common in people with other skin conditions like eczema. Certain medications, like those used to treat acne and allergies to cosmetics and skin-care products, can also contribute to dry and irritated lips.

Chronic chapped lips can result from nutritional deficiencies(vitamin B)and dehydration, or over exposure to sun or cold and windy conditions.

Avoid licking the lips as saliva evaporates quickly resulting in them being drier than before. Drink plenty of water and take multivitamin supplements and do not apply lipstick or other cosmetic products for some days. Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in your home and apply shea butter or Vaseline on your lips.You can also use a homemade ointment mixed from 1 tsp glycerine, 1 tsp lemon juice and 1 tsp castor oil. Spread on lips overnight, refrigerating the leftovers for future use. Eat foods high in calcium, magnesium and flaxseed oil. If a week of compresses and emollients don't do the trick, you can add over-the-counter 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment to your regimen.

If the condition still persists or there is deep cracking in the region of your mouth,then pls consult your doctor as it can be due to eczema.Oral steroids are needed in such cases.

Hope it helps .Take care and pls do keep us posted in case you have any additional queries.Kind regards.