Applying lip balm should offer a soothing sensation, but for some, it can unexpectedly lead to a burning feeling. Understanding why this happens can help in choosing appropriate lip care products and maintaining lip health.
Understanding Why Your Lips Might Burn
One common reason for a burning sensation is irritant contact dermatitis, which occurs when certain ingredients in lip balm directly irritate the delicate skin. Ingredients in “medicated” or “cooling” lip balms, such as camphor, menthol, phenol, and salicylic acid, are known culprits. These can strip away moisture and disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. Strong fragrances and flavors like cinnamon or peppermint oil can also cause a tingling or burning sensation, which some mistakenly perceive as the product working.
Another possibility is allergic contact dermatitis, where the immune system reacts to a specific ingredient in the lip balm. Common allergens include lanolin (from sheep’s wool) and propolis (a bee resin). Other potential allergens are certain fragrances, dyes, and chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone. Allergic reactions can develop over time, meaning a previously used product could suddenly trigger a reaction.
Existing lip conditions can also increase sensitivity, making lips more prone to burning. Severely chapped lips already have a compromised skin barrier, allowing ingredients to penetrate more deeply and cause irritation. Conditions like cold sores, perioral dermatitis, or even sunburn can make lips sensitive, causing even mild ingredients to sting or burn upon application.
Finding Relief and Preventing Future Burning
If your lips burn after applying lip balm, stop using the product immediately. Gently clean your lips with plain water to remove any lingering irritants. Afterward, apply a simple, soothing emollient like petroleum jelly, shea butter, or ceramides to help calm the irritation and support the skin barrier.
When selecting a new lip balm, prioritize fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free products. Avoid common irritants such as menthol, camphor, phenol, salicylic acid, and strong flavors like mint or cinnamon. Instead, look for moisturizing and soothing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, mineral oil, shea butter, squalane, and white petroleum jelly. These ingredients help to attract and seal in moisture, promoting healing without causing further irritation.
Maintaining overall lip health can also prevent future burning. Staying well-hydrated by drinking enough water helps keep lips from becoming excessively dry. Avoiding the habit of licking your lips is also beneficial, as saliva contains digestive enzymes that can break down the delicate lip barrier and lead to further chapping and irritation as it evaporates. Protecting lips from environmental factors like sun and wind, perhaps by using a lip balm with mineral-based SPF once the irritation has subsided, can contribute to their resilience.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While many cases of lip burning can be resolved with self-care, professional medical advice is sometimes warranted. If the burning, redness, swelling, peeling, or cracking of your lips persists despite discontinuing the problematic product and using gentle care, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.
Medical attention is important if symptoms worsen, spread beyond the lips, or are accompanied by severe pain, blistering, or signs of infection such as pus or fever. A doctor or dermatologist can help determine the underlying cause, which might include conditions like persistent allergic reactions, infections, or other dermatological issues. This professional assessment can provide a clear diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment, ensuring long-term lip health.