When wet outside, dry in the mouth. These four words probably sum up one of the most common problems in winter. But what causes lips to dry out and crack in winter, when it's raining outside, or just cold and humid? We used Forefront to find the explanation.
According to Dr. Luke Powells, our lips are uniquely susceptible to dryness and cracking. This is because the skin on the lips is much thinner than anywhere else on our face or body, with fewer layers of protection and fewer oil glands. This makes the lips very vulnerable to dehydration.
Several winter-specific factors further exacerbate the risk of dry lips: Lower humidity levels, both inside and outside, lower moisture on the lips. Indoor heating systems also expel moisture. Prolonged exposure to these conditions leaves the lips cracked and sore.
Unfortunately, the common ways we try to soothe chapped lips can be harmful. Licking the lips 'cleanses' their natural protective fats, causing further damage to the skin. A runny nose, another common winter symptom, spreads saliva, which dries out the lips over time.
Beyond their unattractive appearance, dry, chapped lips also pose medical problems: cracked skin allows pathogens to infect the lips and create inflammation. For persistent or severe fissures, seeing a doctor can help find optimal treatment options. It is also advisable to try to prevent dehydration in advance, by applying protective agents to the lips during the winter.
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