As winter sets in, many people complain of painful, cracked lips. Doctors say the issue goes beyond cold air and dehydration, with vitamin and mineral deficiencies often playing a hidden role.
Health experts explain that frequent chapped lips are not always caused by dry weather or reduced water intake. In many cases, a lack of essential nutrients weakens the skin barrier, making lips more vulnerable during winter. If left untreated, the problem can lead to pain, irritation, and even open wounds that affect daily comfort and oral health.
Role of vitamin B complex
Medical experts say a deficiency of vitamin B complex, especially B2 (riboflavin), B3, B6, and B12, can cause dryness, cracking, and sores at the corners of the lips. This condition is medically known as angular cheilitis.
According to Dr Asha Saklani, vitamin B12 deficiency can make lips extremely dry and cause the surrounding skin to crack. She explains that vitamin B12 is vital for red blood cell formation, and its deficiency may also lead to anaemia, numbness, tingling sensations, and memory problems.
Experts also point out that a lack of vitamin C weakens skin structure. As a result, lips crack more easily, especially in colder months when skin sensitivity increases.
Iron and zinc deficiency raise the risk
Doctors say iron and zinc deficiencies are another major reason behind slow healing and repeated lip cracking. These minerals play a key role in skin repair and immunity.
Women and people with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable, as their bodies may struggle to heal damaged skin efficiently.
How to protect your lips in winter
Health professionals stress that a balanced diet is essential to prevent chapped lips linked to nutritional deficiencies. Foods that help include:
- Milk, yoghurt, eggs, pulses, green leafy vegetables, malt, quinoa, and lemon for vitamins
- Meat, liver, chickpeas, and dry fruits for iron and zinc
Doctors recommend vitamin B complex supplements only on medical advice. Applying lip balm or petroleum jelly several times a day helps seal in moisture and protect the lips.
They also advise avoiding the habit of licking lips, as saliva worsens dryness. Drinking enough water remains a key part of treatment, even in cold weather.
Experts warn that severe pain, irritation, or a white layer forming at the corners of the lips may indicate a fungal infection. In such cases, self-treatment should be avoided, and a doctor should be consulted promptly.
