Art of prevention: Practical interventions in lip-licking dermatitis

Abstract

Dry, cracked lips are a common occurrence in both cold winter months and arid climates, leading many patients to experience discomfort year-round. Lip-licking is a compensatory measure that perpetuates the condition and often leads to lip-licking dermatitis. In patients in whom this compensatory measure becomes a chronic habit, other sequelae such as irritant contact dermatitis, cheilitis simplex, angular cheilitis, factitial cheilitis, secondary infections, and exfoliative cheilitis can arise. Given the high prevalence of lip-licking and subsequent dermatitis, it is important to counsel patients on interventions to prevent associated dermatitis and treatment methods to alleviate symptoms. Practical interventions in a daily routine should include application of a bland lip balm with ultraviolet protection, adequate hydration, protection of the lips from harsh weather conditions, and recognizing when dermatitis is present and further dermatologic care is indicated.