Raw burning lips

Burning or raw lips can result from irritation, dryness, allergy, infection, medicines or an oral condition.

The lips contain a thin skin barrier and a moist mucosal surface that can react to saliva, toothpaste, lip products, foods, dental materials or repeated licking. Burning may also accompany angular cheilitis, oral thrush, nutritional problems, nerve sensitivity or systemic illness.

Stop newly introduced fragranced or flavoured lip products, avoid licking or biting the lips, use a bland protective emollient, and note foods, medicines and dental products linked with flares. A clinician may inspect the lips and mouth and review medications or take a swab when indicated.

Seek care for spreading swelling, blisters, ulcers that do not heal, bleeding, fever, difficulty swallowing, or a persistent patch. Sudden lip swelling with breathing difficulty is an emergency.

Ask whether the surface shows dermatitis, infection, ulceration or nerve-related burning, whether a product should be stopped, and whether a swab, blood test or medication review is appropriate.