Dry lips are often caused by environmental factors, such as cold weather or being inadequately hydrated.
Still, nutrient deficiency is a possible cause (which in some cases can come with other potentially problematic health effects), so it’s something to be aware of, says Carolyn Stull, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with MDCS Dermatology in New York City.
Three vitamin and nutrient deficiencies that can dry out your lips are:
1. B Vitamins
The vitamin B complex refers to eight water-soluble vitamins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate or folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin). A lack of B vitamins, particularly B12, B9, and B2, is linked to angular cheilitis. This inflammatory skin condition causes cracks in the corners of the mouth.
When patients present with these telltale cracks, Dunne often recommends a B complex supplement — particularly a methylated version (the active form of the vitamin that can be more easily used by the body) to promote the body’s ability to absorb and use the nutrients.
Certain groups are more at risk for B-vitamin deficiency, including older adults and those who are pregnant, have a gastrointestinal (GI) disorder that affects nutrient absorption (like inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD), or follow a vegetarian or vegan diet.
B-vitamin deficiencies can cause additional symptoms that are very different from lip redness and irritation, such as tongue and eye inflammation, stomach upset, or genital rash, says Dr. Stull. A vitamin B deficiency could be to blame if you notice any of these symptoms.
2. Iron
Iron deficiency (anemia) can also lead to angular cheilitis, the cracked-lips condition that’s also linked with B-vitamin deficiency.Iron deficiency may impact cell turnover, particularly at the corners of the mouth, causing tissue to thin. Thin tissue is more susceptible to an overgrowth of bacteria and fungus, resulting in angular cheilitis.
People who are more likely to have an iron deficiency include those who: are pregnant, have a menstrual cycle, have a GI disorder (like celiac disease or Crohn’s disease), or are following a vegan or vegetarian diet (since meat and seafood are rich sources of iron).
3. Zinc
This mineral may be more famous for its role in immunity, but it also affects your skin. “Zinc is important for skin repair and regeneration,” says Sarah Bird, DNP, a functional medicine nurse practitioner with Palm Health in Ladue, Missouri.
Like B vitamins and iron, a zinc deficiency can cause angular cheilitis. In the case of zinc, the reason may be poor immune function, as the mineral is vital for wound healing.“You can certainly see scaling at the corners of the mouth if you’re deficient,” Stull says.
You may also see that the growth of your hair and nails is affected by a zinc deficiency. Zinc plays a role in hair growth and is one of many minerals that make up the nail. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss and nail discoloration and ridging.
Most people get enough zinc in their diet. However, you may be at risk for a deficiency if you have a GI disorder that affects nutrient absorption, follow a vegetarian or vegan diet (meat, fish, and seafood are among the best food sources of zinc), are an older adult, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
