Chapped lips
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| Chapped lips |
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Chapped lips is a condition whereby the lips become dry and possibly cracked. It may be caused by the evaporation of moisture. Often the lips become dry because the layer of oil that is naturally produced by the body to coat the lips is removed or is lacking, this is sometimes because it has been licked away.
Treatments
Lip balm or petroleum jelly can often provide temporary relief. Medical grade lanolin USP accelerates repair of lips[1] and is used in some lip repair products. Certain enzymes present in saliva (normally used for digestion) irritate the lips, and the evaporation of the water in saliva saps moisture from them. [2] For these reasons, licking one's lips is something that should be avoided.
Home remedies
Honey has antibacterial properties which can help heal and soothe chapped lips.[3]Nasal sebum may also be used as a remedy.[4] Acidic drinks such as orange juice should be avoided because of their acid which irritates chapped lips. [5] Coconut oil or butter is also an effective Ayurvedic[6]remedy that has been used in ancient India for many centuries [7][8].
See also
- Angular cheilitis — a more severe condition involving an infection and deep cracking around the mouth.
References
- ^ "Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology", Volume 56 , Issue 2 , Pages AB94 - AB94
- ^ http://www.dermadoctor.com/article_Chapped-Lips_185.html
- ^ "Parrsskincare http://www.parrsskincare.com/manuka-honey-skincare.cfm
- ^ Tkac, Deborah (1990). The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies: Thousands of Tips and Techniques Anyone Can Use to Heal Everyday Health Problems (Hardcover). Rodale, 134. ISBN 0878578730.
- ^ Tkac, Deborah (1990). The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies: Thousands of Tips and Techniques Anyone Can Use to Heal Everyday Health Problems (Hardcover). Rodale. p. 134. ISBN 0878578730.
- ^ [1]
- ^ [2]
- ^ [3]
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