The painful splits or fissures that develop at the outer edges of the lips, often referred to as cracked mouth corners, are medically known as angular cheilitis. This inflammatory condition causes redness, irritation, and splits where the upper and lower lips meet. The location makes it prone to recurrence because the area is constantly moving when speaking, eating, and smiling, and is easily exposed to moisture. Understanding the underlying causes is the first step toward finding relief and implementing strategies for long-term prevention. This guide offers remedies and actionable steps to help heal and prevent these persistent cracks.
Why the Corners of the Mouth Crack
The skin at the corners of the mouth is highly susceptible to damage because it is frequently stretched and exposed to saliva, which is the primary mechanical cause of the problem. When a person habitually licks their lips or has saliva pool in the corners, the moisture evaporates, leading to excessive dryness and cracking of the delicate skin. This cycle of wetting and drying breaks down the skin barrier, allowing microorganisms to enter easily.
Once the skin barrier is compromised, the condition often progresses from simple irritation to an inflammatory infection. The constant presence of moisture and warmth creates an ideal breeding ground for yeast, most commonly Candida albicans. This yeast overgrowth leads to the persistent redness, scaling, and deep fissures seen in the condition.
Anatomical factors and underlying health issues also contribute to the development of these fissures. People with deep folds at the corners of the mouth, often due to aging or ill-fitting dental prosthetics, are more prone to saliva pooling. Furthermore, deficiencies in certain micronutrients, particularly Iron and B vitamins (B2 and B12), can compromise the skin’s ability to heal and regenerate, increasing susceptibility to cracking.
Simple At-Home Healing Methods
The initial approach to healing involves creating a protective barrier to shield the damaged skin from moisture and irritants. Apply a thick, occlusive emollient, such as unflavored petroleum jelly or a specialized lip ointment, frequently throughout the day. This barrier should be applied generously, especially before bedtime, to prevent saliva or drooling from reaching the fissures while you sleep.
Behavioral modification requires a conscious effort to stop the habit of lip licking. Saliva contains digestive enzymes that irritate the already inflamed skin, exacerbating the condition and hindering recovery. Temporarily avoid acidic and highly spicy foods, as these can cause stinging and further inflammation when they contact the open cracks.
If the cracks are visibly inflamed, red, and do not respond to simple emollients within a few days, an underlying fungal component is likely present. Apply an over-the-counter topical antifungal cream, such as one containing clotrimazole. A small amount of this cream should be patted onto the affected corner twice daily, followed by a layer of the occlusive barrier to seal and protect the area.
Maintain adequate general body hydration by drinking enough water throughout the day. Dehydration contributes to overall dry skin and lips, making the area more prone to irritation and fissure formation. Keeping the surrounding facial skin moisturized with a gentle product can also help maintain flexibility and prevent further mechanical cracking.
When to Seek Professional Treatment
If consistent at-home care does not result in noticeable improvement within seven to ten days, consult a doctor, dentist, or dermatologist. Lack of healing suggests the infection may be more complex or the underlying cause has not been adequately addressed. Persistent or recurrent cracks also warrant a professional evaluation to rule out deeper issues.
Immediate medical attention is necessary if the cracks show signs of a worsening infection, such as spreading redness, intense throbbing pain, weeping, or pus. These symptoms may indicate a secondary bacterial infection requiring targeted antibiotic treatment. A healthcare provider will typically perform a physical examination and may take a swab sample to test for the specific presence of yeast, like Candida, or bacteria.
The doctor may prescribe a stronger topical medication tailored to the confirmed pathogen. Prescription treatments often include antifungal creams, sometimes combined with a mild topical steroid to reduce inflammation, or topical antibiotics for bacterial involvement. Addressing the underlying issue may also require a blood test to check for nutritional deficiencies, such as low iron or B vitamin levels.
Stopping Fissures Before They Start
Long-term prevention focuses on mitigating the risk factors that cause the initial breakdown of the skin barrier. A daily preventative measure is the year-round application of a simple, unflavored lip balm or occlusive ointment to the corners of the mouth. This routine helps maintain the skin’s integrity and prevents the drying and cracking that often initiates the problem.
Evaluating and improving dental hygiene is particularly important, especially for individuals who wear oral appliances like braces, retainers, or dentures. Poorly fitting dentures or appliances can alter the facial structure, creating deeper folds where saliva can pool, and they can also harbor yeast and bacteria. Regular cleaning of these devices and seeking adjustments from a dentist can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Dietary review and adjustments can help address potential internal predispositions to the condition. Ensuring a diet rich in Iron and B vitamins supports healthy skin and mucosal tissue repair. If a deficiency is suspected, a healthcare provider may recommend specific nutritional supplements to correct the imbalance.
Addressing underlying systemic conditions is an important preventative step for those with chronic recurrence. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or a compromised immune system can make an individual more susceptible to fungal infections. Managing these health issues effectively reduces the overall risk of developing the painful cracks.