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Published on: 8/20/2026

How can I fix chapped lips?

Chapped lips can be treated by keeping them consistently moisturized with a lip balm or ointment and avoiding habits that worsen dryness, such as licking your lips, breathing through your mouth, or exposure to harsh weather without protection. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can also help lips heal faster.

If your chapped lips are persistent, painful, or accompanied by other symptoms, they may point to an underlying issue like dehydration, a vitamin deficiency, or a skin condition. Rather than guessing, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what's causing your discomfort and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Chapped lips, sometimes called cheilitis, happen when your lips lose moisture. One of the first things to do is avoid licking your lips. Although it might seem like a quick fix, saliva evaporates quickly and leaves your lips drier than before. Instead, use a gentle, moisturizing lip care product. Lip balms made with panthenol and bisabolol have been shown to help soothe and repair mild to moderate chapped lips. These ingredients can keep your lips soft and help reduce irritation. It also helps to protect your lips from harsh weather or irritants.

Drinking plenty of water and avoiding products with strong chemicals or flavors can also help. If your chapped lips persist or worsen despite home care, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be causing the problem and whether you should see a healthcare provider. Just remember that consistency is key—apply your lip balm several times during the day and especially before sleeping. This simple routine helps your lips heal naturally over time while keeping them comfortable and protected.

(References)

  • Fonseca A, Jacob SE, Sindle A. Art of prevention: Practical interventions in lip-licking dermatitis. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2020 Jun 5;6(5):377-380. doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2020.06.001. PMID: 32898702; PMCID: PMC8060673.

  • Santos LR, Dick TN, Candreva MS, Marques LC, Milagres A, Rozza-de-Menezes RE, Junior AS, Cunha KS, Conde DC. Challenging of treating patients with exfolliative cheilittis: Report of two cases. J Clin Exp Dent. 2023 May 1;15(5):e431-e436. doi: 10.4317/jced.60326. PMID: 37214748; PMCID: PMC10198695.

  • Varothai S, Chaweekulrat P, Pruksaeakanan C, Wongdama S, Boonchai W. Efficacy of panthenol- and bisabolol-containing lip care as monotherapy for mild-to-moderate cheilitis. Int J Dent Hyg. 2024 Aug;22(3):711-716. doi: 10.1111/idh.12779. Epub 2023 Oct 24. PMID: 37877137.

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