If you’re experiencing skin dryness and cracking at the corners of your mouth, it might be easy to chalk it up to chilly, windy weather this time of year. But for those who experience these unsightly, uncomfortable conditions year-round, angular cheilitis could be the culprit. Show
Angular cheilitis is a condition that causes swollen, red patches to form at the corners of the mouth that can bleed, itch and become painful. Common causes include:
We are strong believers in the benefits of holistic care and natural, home-based remedies to treat angular cheilitis. If you suffer occasionally from this condition, you might consider these remedies:
For those who battle this problem routinely, we recommend scheduling an appointment to be evaluated to determine whether you would benefit from dental remedies. We can help address ill-fitting dentures, poor oral hygiene, and we even can assist you in quitting smoking. Our Wellness Center offers smoking cessation options including acupuncture and reflexology. A few things in life are inevitable: that pile of laundry needs to be done, taxes have to be filed, and at some point during the winter, you'll experience chapped lips. Lip balm is a simple fix for any flaking and tightness caused by cooler dry temperatures. It also can be used to soothe cracked cuticles and tame flyaways. But there is one thing even the most beloved of lip balms can't do: heal cracked, dry mouth corners. 7 Expert-Backed Ways to Keep Your Skin Healthy in the Winter What are the symptoms of angular cheilitis?Cracked mouth corners are also known by their technical name— angular cheilitis. It causes dry, red, painful cracks on the side of the mouth which can make eating and talking unbearable. Unlike chapped lips, dutifully reapplying Vaseline or Chapstick isn't going to provide much relief — or ultimately heal the cracks. With the help of Dr. Tracy Evans, board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Pacific Skin and Cosmetic Dermatology in San Francisco, we break down the difference between dry skin and angular cheilitis, how to treat the condition, and most importantly, how to prevent it. How to Get Rid of Chapped Lips This Winter What are the causes of angular cheilitis?While the cracks on the sides of your mouth might look like the dry, flaky patches you get on your lips during the winter, angular cheilitis is actually inflammation caused by the collection of saliva around the mouth, which can lead to an overgrowth of yeast. That's why lip balms won't completely make it go away (more on that later). According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, moistening the area (like by licking it or applying a balm) can make the problem worse. "The excess moisture may lead to secondary infection with microorganisms, such as Candida yeast or Staphylococcus bacteria," the organization states. "People who are sensitive to yeast or fungal illnesses may have more issues, such as patients who are immunosuppressed," Dr. Evans says of those prone to angular cheilitis. "However, wearing braces or a month guard can make you drool at night, and then these mouth cracks can become an issue." We Tested 25 Different Lip Masks — These 13 Left Our Lips Kissably Soft So, how do you get rid of cracked mouth corners?While Dr. Evans says the condition takes about two to four weeks to resolve with treatment, angular cheilitis often gets worse and more painful if left to its own devices. As for how to treat dry cracked mouth corners, she says a dermatologist can prescribe "nystatin ointment (an anti-yeast medication) and a mild steroid such as hydrocortisone 2.5% to be used on the affected area three times per day, but especially before bed." If going to a dermatologist isn't an option, over-the-counter Lotrimin (yep, the same anti-fungal cream used for jock itch and ringworm) can help. VIDEO: Is Botox Worth the Hype? Here's How Long It Really Lasts How can you prevent getting dry cracks around the mouth?The similarities between chapped lips and angular cheilitis lie in how to prevent both conditions. Applying an occlusive barrier to the sides of the mouth before bed can prevent future flare-ups of angular cheilitis. Dr. Evans recommends Aquaphor or CeraVe. The 10 Best Lip Balms for Lasting Hydration And finally, lip filler can help keep moisture out. "Interestingly, a little bit of Juvéderm Ultra applied in the corners of the mouth (lateral commissures) keeps the corners of the mouth turned up and can help!," says Dr. Evans. "Filler will also help with a more youthful appearance of your lips." How do you heal the corners of your mouth?To clear up a case of cracked mouth corners, you should promptly see your dentist for treatment. Treatment will typically include some form of antifungal ointment or lozenge applied over a few days to clear up the sores and prevent or stop any infection.
How do you heal a scab around your mouth?Here are some tips to help the healing process and maybe speed it up:. Keep the scab clean. Proper hygiene can help you avoid irritation or infection. ... . Moisturize it. Moisturize your scab to promote fast healing and reduce itching. ... . Apply a warm compress. ... . Use sunscreen. ... . Don't pick at it.. How long does it take for the corners of your mouth to heal?So, how do you get rid of cracked mouth corners? While Dr. Evans says the condition takes about two to four weeks to resolve with treatment, angular cheilitis often gets worse and more painful if left to its own devices.
How do I get rid of angular cheilitis ASAP?If angular cheilitis is caused by a yeast infection, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal medication that you'll apply to the affected area of your mouth. If the underlying cause is a bacterial infection, your doctor will likely recommend a topical antibiotic ointment or cream.
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How to heal scab on corner of mouth
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