For many children, winter brings rough, chapped lips and dry, itchy skin. A few simple tips can make a big difference in soothing these common winter conditions.
by Jennifer S. Ammons, MD, Pediatrician |
Our common images of winter include hot chocolate, snow angels, and frosty windowpanes, but for many children, the wintertime reality is rough, chapped lips and dry, itchy skin.
A few simple tips can make a big difference in soothing these common winter conditions.
What to do for dry lips
A lack of humidity in the air and wind that can quickly dry out skin and lips can lead to a feeling of dryness that causes kids to repeatedly lick their lips. Lip-licking results in moisture quickly evaporating from the lips, contributing to further dryness and potentially even painful cracking and bleeding. Some children will lick around their mouths as well, leading to a condition called “lip licker’s dermatitis.”
Don't think your child will stop licking his or her lips just because you tell them to; admonishments usually aren't very helpful in decreasing the behavior.
What you can do is frequently apply a lip balm containing petroleum jelly to the lips; older children may like to carry their own in their pocket to reapply as needed. In addition, a thick coating of petroleum jelly around the mouth at night time can help to heal dry skin and decrease the urge to lick.
What to do for dry skin
In addition to dry skin around the mouth, many parents and children will notice a general dryness and itchiness to their skin or even patches of dry, rough skin. This condition can especially plague the hands as alcohol-based sanitizers or soap and water can quickly dry out skin.
You can still take daily baths and showers, but they should be brief and the water should be warm, not very hot. Immediately after showering or bathing, apply a moisturizing cream. Also, using a soap-free cleanser or fragrance-free soap designed for sensitive skin can prevent further drying and irritation. Another good practice is to apply a moisturizing cream just prior to bedtime to allow skin to heal overnight.
Don’t hesitate to see your health care provider if these measures don't yield results for you or if your child's skin is red, painful, swollen, or crusted. Sometimes additional treatments are required to speed the healing process. Often, though, a few simple steps can keep your skin comfortable all winter long.
Jennifer S. Ammons, MD, FAAP is a neonatologist pediatrician with Roseville Pediatrics. She is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics and a fellow with the American Academy of Pediatrics. Her special interests include child safety, infectious diseases and immuniations. She is a graduate of the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.