Hello,

Thanks for posting your query.

Your symptoms are suggestive of “cheilitis” - which is characterized by dry lips, peeling, cracking and flaking of the skin of lips. It 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), dehydration or over exposure to sun or cold and windy conditions.

The following measures can be helpful for dry and peeling lips. You can try these:

1)     Take some vitamin B supplements for some days as deficiency of vitamin B can cause such dry and peeling lips.

2)     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.

3)     Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in your home and apply XXXXXXX butter or Vaseline on your lips.

4)     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.

5)     Eat foods high in calcium, magnesium and flaxseed oil.

If a week of compresses and emollients don't do the trick, you can get topical steroids prescribed from your dermatologist. Topical steroids will help you.

Hope this answers your query. If you have additional questions or follow up queries then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your queries.

Please accept my answer in case you have no follow up query.

Wish you good health.

Regards

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