Constant lip licking strips the natural barrier, causing a red, chapped ring around the lips that stings and burns—especially in cold weather.
How it looks
- Red, dry, sometimes shiny or scaly skin around the lips in a “halo,” often crossing the border of the lip onto nearby skin.
- Cracks may form; stings with spicy/salty foods.
Why it happens
- Saliva evaporates quickly, removing moisture and irritates skin enzymes.
- Cold, windy air and masks worsen it.
Fast relief plan (the “Protect and Replace” routine)
- Replace licking with balm:
- Apply a bland, fragrance-free barrier (petrolatum, lanolin, ceramide balm) every 1–2 hours and especially after eating, brushing, and before bed.
- Keep a stick in pocket/backpack; reapply at the first urge to lick.
- Gentle cleansing:
- Rinse with cool water after meals; pat dry—no scrubbing.
- Night repair:
- Thick layer of petrolatum at bedtime; consider a humidifier in the bedroom.
If very inflamed or stinging
- Short course (up to 5–7 days) of a mild topical steroid on the red skin around the lips (not on the wet lip surface), followed by a non-steroid anti-inflammatory (tacrolimus/pimecrolimus) if needed—clinician guidance recommended, especially for kids.
- For mouth-corner splits (angular cheilitis), add an antifungal cream (clotrimazole) twice daily and keep a thick barrier on top.
Habits and triggers
- Identify “licking moments” (anxiety, concentration, outdoor play) and pre-apply balm.
- Consider a reward or reminder system for kids (stickers, timers).
- Avoid minty, cinnamon, or flavored lip products and toothpaste that can irritate.
When to see a clinician
- No improvement after 1–2 weeks of diligent barrier care.
- Oozing, yellow crust, or severe pain (possible infection).
- If the red bumps cluster around mouth with burning after steroid use—could be perioral dermatitis; needs a different approach.
Prevention
- Keep a balm handy; reapply before outdoor time and meals.
- Use mineral sunscreen balms for sun/wind days.
- Teach kids to dab with a tissue and reapply balm instead of licking.
Quick kit
- Unscented petrolatum or lanolin balm
- Gentle cleanser or water rinse
- Optional: mild steroid (short course) or calcineurin inhibitor with clinician advice