How to Keep a Cracked Lip From Recracking

Lip balm, an alternative to petroleum jelly, also seals in moisture.

A cracked lip may hurt, may bleed and may even open the way for infection. To help the lip heal, and to prevent it from cracking anew, create an oily barrier between the chapped area and the air. Your lips will then retain moisture, reducing the chance of cracking again. This helps during winter, when cold, dry air quickly chaps your lips whenever contact removes their natural oily film.

Things You'll Need

• Petroleum jelly
• Water

Instructions

1. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to your cracked lip.

2. Add a few drops of cold water to the jelly layer, helping to harden it into a better seal.

3. Repeat the process several times during the day, adding a new layer whenever the old one has worn off. Avoid licking your lips or touching them in any other way during this time.

Tips & Warnings

• Petroleum jelly does not actually moisturize cracked lips. It helps the lips retain their own moisture, preventing further cracking.

• If lips continue to crack after repeated petroleum jelly treatments, you may suffer from something more serious than chapped lips, such as actinic keratosis. Consult a doctor if the problem persists.

References

• University of Illinois Extension: Low Cost Ideas for Healthy Personal Care
• University of Michigan: Colds and Flu — Upper Respiratory Infections
• Fox Chase Cancer Center: Skin Cancer Treatment

Resources

• University of Maryland: Petroleum Jelly
• Duquesne University: Question of the Week
• University of Connecticut Health Center: Save Your Skin