But did you know that the placement of said cracks and chaps may give you some indication of what the cause is? Yes, indeed: If you’ve ever experienced cracked corners on your lips, you may be dealing with something slightly different from your everyday dry lips. We’re talking about angular cheilitis. And if you’re experiencing it for the first time, you may be tempted to think that those red corners are simply extra dry, but there’s actually a lot more going on than you might think. Allow us to explain. And we get it—when lips feel dry and crackly, the first instinct is to wet them. But please, we beg you: Do not lick your lips. In doing so, you may actually be making it worse. According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, “The excess moisture may lead to secondary [irritation],” the org notes. However, Waldorf explains there may be one step you can try before going in to see the experts: “Treatment requires targeting the yeast and the inflammation. There are drugstore options that include using 1% hydrocortisone cream and clotrimazole,” she says, such as Cortizone 10 Maximum Strength with Aloe or CeraVe Hydrocortisone Cream. “If that doesn’t work, see your dermatologist, who can recommend an ointment that is a combination of nystatin and triamcinolone.” But for daily, consistent lip hydration, it’s best to have a trusted, high-quality lip balm on hand, such as mindbodygreen’s lip balm. The plant-based ingredients work to hydrate your lips and keep them healthy long term, not just temporarily relieved. There’s a blend of humectants, emollients, and occlusives which will work together to get the lips hydrated and lock that moisture in. Finally, be mindful of what can trigger dry lips—from internal to external causes. We always like to approach things from a well-rounded perspective, and if you want your skin (lips included!) to feel supple and healthy long term, you should always consider your habits, diet, and products. A few to keep an eye out on? Internal hydration levels, sun exposure, and even some vitamin deficiencies (read more about dry lip causes here).
