Allergic Contact Cheilitis
Dermatitis is a medical term used to describe skin infections, irritations, or inflammations caused by direct contact with a product of poor quality. A person may be allergic to its ingredients or to the substance itself. It manifests when skin rashes appear upon contact with allergens or irritants. This health condition is very common since possible allergens or chemical irritants surround people. Reactions may begin from mild to severe, depending on the frequency of the contact. Some people’s skin immediately reacts upon first contact, while others only show signs of rashes when it has happened multiple times.
Allergic contact cheilitis is a type of dermatitis (skin infection and inflammation) that happens specifically on the lips. Products that may have been the cause for this cheilitis are toothpaste, mouthwash, toothpick or dental floss, dentures, and other oral products and devices. One of the most common products is lipstick. Ingredients for lipsticks include castor and sesame oil, shellac, azo dyes, colophony, preservatives, or the flavor (like strawberry or peanut). Other irritants include fragrances, lip balms, moisturizers, certain foods (citrus fruits, spicy food, or cinnamon), and other chemical products.
