Cheiloscopy: A Deterministic Aid for Forensic Sex Determination

Background: Cheiloscopy, the study of lip prints, is an upcoming tool for the identification of persons. The lip print of every person is unique and can be used to fix personal identity. Aim: The prime objective of the present study was to ascertain whether the lip prints behold the potential for determination of sex of the individual from the configuration. Methods: The lip prints were recorded by applying lipstick on the lips, then cellophane tape was applied on the lips and the prints were taken. These prints were studied and classified according to Tsuchihashi’s classification. Results: No two lip prints matched with each other, thus establishing the uniqueness of lip prints. Type I and I’ were most common in females; type IV and V were seen most commonly in males. Around 48 females and 45 males were correctly recognized on the basis of their lip prints. Conclusion: The present study is able to convey that lip prints behold the potential of determination of the sex.