Early symptoms of allergic cheilitis

Written by Fang Xiao
Dentistry
Updated on May 19, 2025
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Common symptoms of allergic cheilitis include peeling of the lips, itching, redness and swelling of the lips, and skin flushing. In severe cases, blisters may form, and the lips can become eroded and exudative. Repeated scratching due to itchiness or repetitive mechanical friction can lead to infection. The infection is generally a secondary bacterial infection, causing pus formation in the affected skin areas. Allergic cheilitis is often caused by contact with irritating substances, such as irritant foods, lipstick, and toothpaste. Some individuals develop allergic cheilitis after exposure to sunlight, and the condition can worsen. Therefore, patients with allergic dermatitis must receive anti-allergy treatment.

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Can I drink milk with cheilitis?

Cheilitis is a common condition, and patients with cheilitis can drink milk. Milk is a high-quality protein that can play a beneficial role in bodily repair and is overall beneficial to one's health, so it is recommended that patients drink milk appropriately. Additionally, it is advised that patients with cheilitis should avoid frequently licking their lips or touching them with their hands, as the skin on the inflamed lips is quite fragile and cannot withstand external irritations. Such frequent stimulation can exacerbate the inflammation. It is recommended that patients take appropriate oral vitamins. During the dry seasons of autumn and winter, patients can apply glycerin or lip balm to keep their lips moisturized.

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Written by Wang Peng
Dentistry
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What should I do if my chapped lips keep crusting over?

The patient's recurrent lip crusting indicates a chronic, recurring condition. It is recommended to conduct relevant examinations to identify any potential irritants that could be causing this repeated lip inflammation. For example, prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to actinic cheilitis, while living in a cold, dry environment might cause dehydration of the lip mucosa, leading to flaking and crusting. Additionally, some patients who do not consume fresh fruits and vegetables may lack vitamins, and frequently eating spicy and irritating foods can also lead to recurrent cheilitis. It is advised to eliminate these irritants and ensure proper moisturization of the lips.

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Written by Wang Peng
Dentistry
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Can pigmentation caused by cheilitis be cured?

If the patient has pigment deposition caused by repeated occurrences of cheilitis, this condition is usually difficult to alleviate. Even with treatment, restoring the lips to their original color is a long and gradual process. It is suggested that patients with cheilitis, who have experienced changes in lip color, may temporarily observe the condition, as it does not affect their overall health, nor does it impede eating or speech functions. If appearance is a concern, one can use lip balm or undergo lip tattooing to cover it up; however, it is crucial to avoid local irritation.

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Written by Tian Hua
Otolaryngology
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How to treat exfoliative cheilitis?

Treatment for exfoliative cheilitis involves identifying and removing potential causes, avoiding external irritants, and correcting bad habits with local medication treatment. For mild cases, apply honey, glycerin, petroleum jelly, silver nitrate ointment, or zinc oxide ointment externally. In severe cases, apply corticosteroid cream externally, consider surgical removal for those with epitheliomatous hyperplasia, and treat with helium-neon laser irradiation and superficial X-ray irradiation. Drug treatment shows significant short-term effects, but often recurs and is difficult to cure completely. (Note: Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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What foods should be avoided with allergic cheilitis?

When patients suffer from allergic cheilitis, their lips are generally in a state of acute inflammation. It is important to pay attention to their diet and avoid eating spicy, irritating foods such as hot pots or barbecues, as well as oily and greasy foods. During this time, it is also advised that patients should not smoke or drink alcohol, as some may experience severe itching due to the cheilitis. At this time, it is recommended that patients apply anti-allergic ointment locally, which can effectively relieve some symptoms of allergic cheilitis. Additionally, when suffering from allergic cheilitis, patients should avoid consuming seafood, as it is more likely to provoke allergic reactions. Therefore, to alleviate allergy symptoms, it is advised that patients avoid seafood during this period.