The lips are a prominent part of the human body and any change in their structure is immediately noticed. A swelling of the lips can be particularly painful and unattractive. Dry, chapped lips are the most common cause of swelling as one often tends to constantly lick the lips or bite off the peeling skin as it can be quite uncomfortable and irritating. This usually leaves the area sore and leads to a gradual inflammation in most cases. An allergy to a certain food or lip product could also be responsible for the swelling. Other common reasons include insect bites and injury. In rare cases, one bites their lip while eating or when asleep and does not realize it and keeps wondering how the swelling could have occurred.
A cold compress is one of the best known home remedies to reduce a swelling. A cube of ice can be wrapped in a handkerchief and placed on the affected area. This will gradually bring down the inflammation along with the pain and discomfort. Avoid using a cube of ice directly on the skin as it can result in soreness or a mild frost bite. Avoid drinking any hot beverages like tea or coffee as heat causes blood to rush to the affected area, thus increasing the inflammation. Yogurt is soothing and will help in the reduction of the swelling. Pure coconut oil is known for its ability to prevent skin damage and reduce swelling. Applying a layer of coconut oil, when indoors, is recommended to treat the condition. Honey has natural healing abilities. Applying a layer of honey on the lips will help in preventing dryness and its antimicrobial properties will prevent the spread of infection as well. Bathing the affected lip with a solution of water and chamomile will also prove beneficial in reducing the inflammation and thoroughly cleansing the area, especially in the case of insect bites.
Determining the allergen is essential if you have a feeling that the swelling could be caused by an allergic reaction. If you feel that a particular product like a lip stick or lip gloss that you are using could be responsible for an allergic reaction, discontinuing its use at once is recommended. Staying away from food or medication that you know you are allergic to will also help in preventing a recurrence. Last but not the least, being careful and avoiding injury is essential to prevent swelling and disfiguration of the lips.