Definition of Chapped lips Chapped lips: Dry, cracked or sore
lips, usually in cold, windy, dry weather and less often in warm
weather. Sun exposure can contribute to chapping of the lips.
Licking or biting the lips is often a contributing factor. The
lips are more sensitive to chapping than the skin. Unlike the
skin, the lips do not produce oils to protect them against
drying. To treat chapped lips, use a good lip emollient, ideally
one containing a sunscreen. If you don't have a lip emollient
use lipstick. And, if you don't have a lip emollient or lipstick
around, rub your finger over the side of your nose and then wipe
the oil on your lips. In winter and at elevated altitudes, drink
lots of fluid. Some steps to prevent chapped lips are to: The
word "chapped" meaning "fissured or cracked" dates to the 14th
century. "Chapped" can also apply to the parched ground in
summer and hands in winter. Last Editorial Review: 9/20/2012
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