Lip Skin Problems

The skin of the lips can be especially thin and sensitive, susceptible to irritation and exposure problems. People who spend a great deal of time outdoors or in harsh environments can be more likely to have lip skin problems than others. Here are a few of the most common lip skin conditions.

Swollen Lips

Lips can swell if they are having an allergic reaction to a medication or to food.

Irritation

Irritation includes chapping, peeling and redness, occurring most commonly at the corners of the mouth.

Discoloration

The skin of the lips can become discolored due to medications, sun exposure or aging.

Mouth Sores

Mouth sores can include canker sores and herpes blisters. Cold sores commonly happen on top of the lips, and canker sores can happen right inside the mouth.

Damage From the Sun

Lip sun damage can appear from excessive sun exposure and can make the lips appear to have a rash and to become firm and cracked.

Resources

• The Merck Manual on Lip Problems