She Strengthens

The Unwelcome Guest: Understanding Lip Eczema

Lip eczema can strike at any time, leaving your lips dry, itchy, and inflamed. But what triggers this pesky condition, and how can you manage it?

Types of Lip Eczema

There are three main types of lip eczema: irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis, and atopic dermatitis. Each type has its own set of symptoms and causes.

• Irritant Contact Dermatitis: This type occurs when your lips come into contact with an irritating substance, such as certain lipsticks or toothpastes.
• Allergic Contact Dermatitis: This type is caused by an allergic reaction to an allergen, such as a cosmetic ingredient or food.
• Atopic Dermatitis: This chronic condition causes skin to lose moisture, leading to dryness, oozing, and infection.

Symptoms of Lip Eczema

Lip eczema can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including:

• Red, gray, purple, or dark brown patches on the lips
• Dry, flaky skin
• Itching and skin splitting or scaling

Triggers of Lip Eczema

Lip eczema can be triggered by a variety of substances, including:

• Certain lipsticks and cosmetics
• Toothpastes and oral hygiene products
• Food allergies
• Cold weather
• Habitual lip-licking or biting

Risk Factors

If you already have atopic dermatitis or a history of allergies, you’re more likely to develop lip eczema.

Treatment Options

The good news is that lip eczema is treatable. Here are some treatment options:

• OTC Treatments: Combining a low-to-medium-intensity topical steroid with moisturizing emollients can help soothe lip eczema.
• Natural Remedies: Applying coconut or sunflower oil to your lips may help, as well as avoiding scratching, picking, or licking your lips.
• Prescribed Treatments: Your doctor may prescribe stronger topical steroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors, or biologic drugs to treat lip eczema.

When to See a Doctor

If your lip eczema doesn’t clear up on its own within a few days of removing known allergens or irritants, it’s time to see a dermatologist or allergist.

Diagnosis

A skin examination and allergic patch test can help diagnose which type of lip eczema you have.

Takeaway

Lip eczema can be caused by irritation or an allergic reaction to something you put on your lips or in your mouth. By understanding the causes and symptoms, you can take steps to manage this pesky condition and keep your lips healthy and happy.