The skin around your lips is thin and sensitive, making it prone to irritation and dryness. Common culprits include scented lip balms, harsh toothpaste, certain foods, or even environmental factors. When exposed, the area becomes inflamed, itchy, cracked, and sometimes painful.
Tried and Tested Tips to Calm Lip Eczema
Stop Using All Suspected Products: The first and most important step is eliminating anything that might be causing the reaction. This includes all lip balms, lipsticks, flavored toothpaste, and harsh soaps.
Moisturize Gently with Simple Ointments: Products like Aquaphor or plain petroleum jelly create a protective barrier and lock in moisture without irritating sensitive skin.
Avoid Licking Your Lips: Although it may feel soothing temporarily, saliva actually dries out your skin further and worsens eczema.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain skin moisture from the inside out.
Try Mild Hydrocortisone Cream (With Caution): If irritation is really bad, a low-strength hydrocortisone cream may reduce inflammation. But consult a healthcare professional before using steroids near your mouth.
Switch to Fragrance-Free, Gentle Oral Care: Use toothpaste and mouthwash that are free of artificial flavors and harsh chemicals.
Watch Your Diet: Certain vitamin deficiencies (like B vitamins or vitamin D) can influence skin health, so maintaining a balanced diet helps.
When to See a Doctor
If your eczema persists beyond a couple of weeks or spreads, seeing a dermatologist is important. They can provide tailored treatments such as prescription creams or allergy testing to identify triggers.
