Cracked lip corners, also known as angular cheilitis, can be a painful and unsightly condition. The corners of your mouth may become red, swollen, and cracked, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even smile without discomfort.
But don’t worry, there are ways to heal cracked lip corners fast and prevent them from recurring. In this article, we’ll discuss the causes of cracked lip corners and share expert tips on how to heal them quickly.
What Causes Cracked Lip Corners?
Cracked lip corners can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Dryness: Dry, chapped lips are more prone to cracking, especially in the corners where the skin is thinner and more delicate.
- Licking your lips: While it may seem like a quick fix, licking your lips actually makes them drier and more prone to cracking.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, can contribute to cracked lip corners.
- Infection: Bacterial or fungal infections can cause inflammation and cracking in the corners of your mouth.
- Ill-fitting dentures: Dentures that don’t fit properly can cause irritation and cracking in the corners of your mouth.
- Excessive drooling: This is more common in children, but excessive drooling can cause moisture to build up in the corners of the mouth, leading to cracking.
How to Heal Cracked Lip Corners Fast
Use a Lip Balm with Healing Ingredients
One of the best ways to heal cracked lip corners is to keep them moisturized with a lip balm that contains healing ingredients. Look for balms with ingredients like beeswax, shea butter, and vitamin E, which can help soothe and repair cracked skin.
Apply the lip balm several times a day, especially after eating or drinking, to keep your lips hydrated and promote healing.
Avoid Licking Your Lips
As mentioned earlier, licking your lips can actually make them drier and more prone to cracking. It may be a hard habit to break, but try to resist the urge to lick your lips and instead reach for your lip balm.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water is essential for overall skin health, including your lips. When your body is dehydrated, your lips can become dry and cracked. Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to keep your lips and skin hydrated.
Use a Humidifier
Dry air can also contribute to cracked lip corners. If you live in a dry climate or use air conditioning or heating, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air. This can help prevent your lips from becoming too dry and cracked.
Take a Multivitamin
If your cracked lip corners are caused by a nutritional deficiency, taking a multivitamin can help. Look for a supplement that contains iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for healthy skin.
Treat Any Infections
If your cracked lip corners are caused by an infection, it’s important to treat it properly. Consult with your doctor or dermatologist to determine the best course of treatment, which may include topical or oral medications.
Adjust Your Dentures
If you wear dentures, make sure they fit properly. Ill-fitting dentures can cause irritation and cracking in the corners of your mouth. Consult with your dentist to adjust your dentures if necessary.
Try Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies that can help heal cracked lip corners. Some popular options include:
- Coconut oil: This natural oil is known for its moisturizing properties and can help soothe and heal cracked lip corners. Simply apply a small amount to the corners of your mouth and leave it on for a few hours before wiping it off.
- Honey: Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture. Apply a small amount of honey to the corners of your mouth and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off.
- Aloe vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe and heal cracked skin. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the corners of your mouth and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
Consult with a Dermatologist
If your cracked lip corners persist or are accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to consult with a dermatologist. They can help determine the underlying cause and provide a personalized treatment plan.
How to Prevent Cracked Lip Corners
Prevention is key when it comes to cracked lip corners. Here are some tips to help prevent them from occurring:
- Stay hydrated: As mentioned earlier, drinking plenty of water is essential for healthy skin, including your lips.
- Use a lip balm with SPF: Sun exposure can dry out your lips and make them more prone to cracking. Use a lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Avoid licking your lips: As tempting as it may be, try to avoid licking your lips. Instead, reach for your lip balm to keep them moisturized.
- Eat a balanced diet: A diet rich in vitamins and minerals is essential for healthy skin. Make sure you’re getting enough iron, zinc, and B vitamins to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
- Take care of your dentures: If you wear dentures, make sure they fit properly and clean them regularly to prevent irritation and infection.
Takeaways
Cracked lip corners can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right treatment and prevention methods, you can heal them quickly and prevent them from recurring. Remember to keep your lips moisturized, stay hydrated, and consult with a dermatologist if necessary. With these tips, you’ll have healthy, crack-free lips in no time.
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