Chapped Lips vs. Actinic Cheilitis: Know the Difference Before It’s Too Late
Winter brings dry air, cold winds, and indoor heating, making chapped lips nearly unavoidable. But sometimes what seems like ordinary dryness may actually be actinic cheilitis, a precancerous condition that requires medical attention. Understanding the difference can protect your health while keeping lips soft and healthy.
What Are Chapped Lips?
Chapped lips, or cheilitis, are common in cold months. They occur when moisture evaporates from the lips faster than it can be replaced.
Symptoms of chapped lips:
Peeling or flaking
Cracks at corners
Redness
Mild soreness
Common Causes:
Cold, dry air
Frequent licking of lips
Dehydration
Wind exposure
Most chapped lips respond well to moisturizing lip balms, petroleum jelly, or lanolin-based treatments.
What Is Actinic Cheilitis?
Actinic cheilitis is a precancerous condition caused by long-term sun exposure. It affects the lower lip more than the upper lip and can progress to squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.
Signs of actinic cheilitis:
Persistent roughness or scaling
Color changes (whitish, gray, or reddish areas)
Thickened skin
Crusts that do not heal
Pain or tenderness
Unlike ordinary chapped lips, actinic cheilitis does not improve with lip balms and often worsens over time.
Risk Factors
Fair skin
Outdoor work or sun exposure
Age over 40
History of skin cancer
How Dermatologists Diagnose It
A dermatologist performs a visual exam and may take a biopsy if the lesion looks suspicious. Early detection allows for less invasive treatment and reduces cancer risk.
Treatment Options
Chapped Lips: Hydration, protective lip balms, gentle exfoliation
Actinic Cheilitis: Cryotherapy, topical medications, laser therapy, or surgical removal
Prevention Tips
Apply broad-spectrum SPF lip balm daily—even in winter
Stay hydrated
Avoid licking lips
Cover lips with a scarf in wind or cold
Have regular skin exams if you have high sun exposure history
Not all lip dryness is harmless. Persistent roughness, discoloration, or scaling may signal actinic cheilitis, which is treatable and preventable with early care. Protecting your lips this winter ensures both comfort and safety.