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Dealing with dry, flaky skin around the mouth can be a real pain, especially when it's tight and irritated. The delicate area surrounding your lips is particularly prone to dryness, irritation, and inflammation, making it uncomfortable and sometimes challenging to treat. Here are some common reasons behind this issue and how to get your skin back to its radiant, smooth self.
(1) Weather and environmental factors. When temperatures drop, your skin can lose moisture faster than usual, leading to dry, cracked skin around your mouth. Indoor heating doesn't help either—it sucks moisture from the air, leaving your skin even drier. What you can do: Incorporate a natural moisturizer for dry skin into your routine.
(2) Lip licking and saliva. If you lick your lips a lot, you may be contributing to the problem. Saliva evaporates quickly and takes the moisture from your skin with it. This cycle of wetting and drying causes irritation and eventually leads to chapped skin.
What you can do: Keep a hydrating lip balm or a luxury airless skincare moisturizer nearby to protect the area from moisture loss. Reapply regularly, especially when you're out in cold or windy weather.
(3) Harsh skincare or beauty products. The skin around your mouth is delicate, so avoiding harsh products that may irritate this area is important. Ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, and certain exfoliants can lead to further dryness and flaking. Even using the wrong cleanser can strip your skin. What you can do: Opt for clean beauty products free from harsh chemicals. These will cleanse without disturbing your skin's natural oils.
(4) Perioral dermatitis. This inflammatory skin condition causes redness, bumps, and irritation around the mouth and nostrils. It can be triggered by topical steroids, certain toothpaste, or even heavy creams that clog the pores. You might want to consult a dermatologist if you notice persistent irritation or redness.
What you can do: Your skincare routine may need a reset. Switch to sensitive skin care products that calm inflammation, and try avoiding thick creams that could be making things worse.
(5) Nutrient deficiencies. Sometimes, dry skin around the mouth can be your body's way of signaling a deficiency in certain nutrients. A lack of vitamin B, for example, can lead to dry, cracked skin. What you can do: Ensure you eat a balanced diet rich in these nutrients. If needed, consider a supplement to give your skin that extra boost.