Lip Allergies: Identifying Causes, Recognizing Symptoms, Seeking Treatment, and Beyond
Allergic Contact Cheilitis (ACC) is a type of lip inflammation caused by an allergic reaction to an irritant or allergen. The visual signs of an allergic reaction on the lips typically include redness, swelling or puffiness, severe dryness and peeling, itchy red patches often with small bumps, hives (raised itchy welts), and fluid-filled blisters or sores that may be painful or burst open [1][3][5].
Red, itchy patches with small bumps usually appear where an allergen such as a lipstick ingredient has contacted the skin [1]. Severe dryness and peeling can result from allergic reactions disrupting skin moisture [1]. Swelling can cause the lips to noticeably enlarge or become puffy, which is common with lip balm allergies and more severe allergic responses [3][5].
Hives (urticaria) on the lips are raised, itchy welts signalling an allergic reaction [1][5]. Fluid-filled blisters or lesions, characteristic of allergic contact dermatitis, may develop causing discomfort or pain [1][3]. Burning or tingling sensations often accompany the visual signs and indicate inflammation [1][3].
In the context of severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, rapid swelling of the lips may occur, sometimes noticeable within minutes, accompanied by other systemic symptoms [5]. These signs differentiate allergic reactions on the lips from other conditions such as cold sores, which also present with blisters but are caused by viral infections and have tingling preceding blisters [4].
If these symptoms appear after exposure to suspected allergens (lipstick, lip balm, dental materials), it is advisable to stop use and consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and management [1][3]. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends avoiding the allergen or irritant as the best way to treat contact cheilitis [2].
A dermatologist or allergist can perform a patch test to identify the trigger by placing small amounts of potential allergens on the skin and leaving patches in place for 48 hours [2]. Emollients, such as lip balms containing castor seed oil, dimethicone, hemp seed oil, petrolatum, shea butter, mineral oil, ceramides, sun-protective ingredients, and hypoallergenic, fragrance-free products, can treat dry, itchy, or scaly skin conditions [3].
Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) are nonsteroidal medications that alter the immune system to prevent symptoms such as itching and inflammation, but should not be applied inside the nose, mouth, or eyes [3]. Topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone 1%, can help reduce inflammation and heal chapped lips, but should not be used for more than a week without consulting a doctor [3].
If the rash is persistent or returns, or if signs of infection appear, a person should contact a dermatologist or allergist for further evaluation and potential patch testing [3]. In rare cases, ACC can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction, characterised by swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, vomiting or diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, confusion, seizures, and requires immediate treatment with an injection of epinephrine [5].
It's essential to maintain good lip care to prevent ACC. Self-care measures to relieve symptoms at home include staying hydrated, refraining from biting, licking, or picking at the lips, avoiding metal items on the lips, using a humidifier, using a cool compress, and avoiding scratching to prevent infection [3].
References:
[1] American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Allergic Contact Cheilitis. Available: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/allergic-contact-dermatitis/allergic-contact-cheilitis
[2] American Academy of Dermatology. (2020). Contact Dermatitis. Available: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/allergic-contact-dermatitis/contact-dermatitis
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Allergic contact cheilitis. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergic-contact-cheilitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20374865
[4] National Health Service (UK). (2021). Cold sores. Available: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cold-sores/
[5] WebMD. (2021). Anaphylaxis. Available: https://www.webmd.com/allergies/anaphylaxis-symptoms
- A dermatologist or allergist might perform a patch test to identify the trigger for Allergic Contact Cheilitis (ACC), utilizing small amounts of potential allergens placed on the skin.
- For those with ACC, it's crucial to maintain good skincare, and avoid biting, licking, or picking at the lips, as well as metal items on the lips.
- The visual signs of an allergic reaction on the lips can include redness, swelling, such as puffiness, severe dryness, and peeling, itchy red patches with small bumps, hives (raised itchy welts), and fluid-filled blisters or sores that may be painful or burst open.
- If a rash persists or returns, or signs of infection, like pus or redness, appear, it's advisable to contact a dermatologist or allergist for further evaluation and potential patch testing.
- Emollients, containing ingredients like castor seed oil, dimethicone, and shea butter, can alleviate dry, itchy, or scaly skin conditions associated with ACC.
- Topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) can help prevent symptoms of ACC, such as itching and inflammation, but should not be applied to sensitive areas like the inside of the nose, mouth, or eyes.
- In the context of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, rapid swelling of the lips may occur, potentially accompanied by other systemic symptoms like low blood pressure and difficulty breathing, which requires immediate medical attention.
- Training in mental health, along with understanding medical-conditions, skin-care, health-and-wellness, and neurological-disorders, is essential for individuals to manage various skin-related conditions, such as ACC, and seek appropriate care when necessary.
