It commonly occurs during winter months but some people can have it year-round if lip licking is a chronic habit.

Children are affected more often than adults and sometimes special approaches need to be considered especially if there is a psychological aspect to the lip licking behavior.

[8][9] Lip licker's dermatitis which is a subtype of irritant contact cheilitis is caused by an exogenous factor rather than an endogenous one.

[10] Irritant contact cheilitis can be separated into different reaction types, so it is an umbrella term and further evaluations are usually needed to properly classify the presenting condition.

The most common irritants include alcohol, xylene, turpentine, ketones, metalworking fluids, sodium lauryl sulfate, alkalis, and acids.

[8][9] In order to bring awareness, it is best to not directly point out their lips, but to take an indirect approach and ask an open question.

The T.R.U.E (Thin-layer Rapid-Use Epicutaneous) Test is an easy to use and convenient product available with 35 allergens suspended in gels and is commonly used by dermatologists and allergists.

This is usually caused by regardless of moisturizer effectiveness, there is still frequent and repetitive exposure of irritant can exceed skin recovery time.

[30] Lip Licker's dermatitis can also be confused with Angular cheilitis which can present as similar symptoms around the mouth as erythema or ulcerations.

[33][34][35] Generous application of bland emollients can improve the rash and any flaking or peeling that can start occurring when the lips are irritated.

[3] In the presence of severe irritation and dryness where cracks are present, the use of a thick emollient such as petroleum jelly can provide some relief and protection.

Sometimes, unlike in perioral dermatitis, topical steroids may be used for a few days only for acute inflammation and if other methods were found unsuccessful.

[37][38] Many people have been found to have hypersensitivity to dental products, ingredients in lip balms, and cosmetic problems in which case identifying the factors that are aggravating the skin and discontinuing their use can resolve the issue.