Pharmacist Laura Vanagaitė from Gintarinė Pharmacy explains that the primary reason for dry lips relates to their structure; lips do not have oil glands and are covered by a very thin layer of skin, which makes them unable to retain moisture and highly susceptible to dehydration as well as cold winds and sun exposure. She indicates that normally, lip dryness is associated with environmental conditions and habits, yet chronic, painful cases of lip cracking may indicate underlying health issues that need attention.

According to Vanagaitė, one common cause of persistent lip dryness is insufficient water intake. When the body becomes dehydrated, lips are often one of the first areas to show signs of this condition. The pharmacist highlights the importance of maintaining adequate hydration for overall skin health.

Vanagaitė also notes that medications can contribute to dryness; for example, retinoids – particularly isotretinoin which is often prescribed for severe acne – can frequently lead to dry lips. Understanding these causes of lip dryness can help individuals manage their symptoms more effectively and might encourage them to seek further medical advice if necessary.