The irritation or cut that appears at the side of the mouth is a common condition resulting in redness, swelling, and cracking at the corners where the lips meet. This issue, known as angular cheilitis, can become painful. It is typically localized and responds well to simple care measures applied at home. Understanding the nature of the irritation promotes quick healing and prevents recurrence.
Immediate Steps for Healing at Home
The immediate goal is to keep the affected area clean, dry, and protected. Begin by gently washing the corners of your mouth with mild soap and water to remove trapped saliva or food debris. Pat the area dry afterward, as moisture contributes to the issue.
Apply a protective barrier to shield the cut from saliva and environmental factors that hinder healing. A thick, occlusive ointment, such as petroleum jelly or a zinc oxide-based cream, works to seal the skin. Reapply this barrier frequently throughout the day and especially before sleeping to prevent drooling from re-moisturizing the area.
If the area is inflamed and painful, a brief application of an over-the-counter 1% hydrocortisone cream may help reduce redness and swelling. Use this only for a few days to calm local inflammation. Consciously stop habits like constantly licking the lips or stretching the mouth open too wide, which can re-crack the healing skin and delay recovery.
Common Causes of Mouth Corner Cracks
The primary factor contributing to mouth corner cracks is moisture trapping, which occurs when saliva pools at the corners of the mouth. As the saliva evaporates, it creates a cycle of dryness and chapping that causes the skin to split. The warmth and moisture in this crevice create an ideal environment for microorganisms to grow.
This environment often leads to a secondary infection, frequently linked to a fungal infection caused by the yeast Candida. Bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, can also colonize the area, worsening the inflammation and preventing the cut from healing.
Nutritional deficiencies also make the skin vulnerable to cracking. Low levels of Iron, Zinc, and B vitamins like Riboflavin (B2) and Cobalamin (B12), can compromise the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes. Correcting these deficiencies is necessary for long-term resolution, especially in persistent or recurrent cases.
Strategies for Long-Term Prevention
Preventing recurrence requires addressing underlying factors. Maintaining hydration and a consistent lip care routine is an effective baseline defense. Using a thick, non-irritating lip balm or emollient daily keeps the skin supple and less likely to crack in response to movement or dry air.
If a deficiency was suspected or identified, incorporating foods rich in Iron and B vitamins can help strengthen the skin’s natural defenses. Dietary sources of B vitamins include lean meats, eggs, dairy, and fortified cereals, while iron is abundant in red meat, beans, and dark leafy greens. These nutrients support cell repair and immune function, which are necessary for healthy skin.
Behavioral adjustments are important, particularly avoiding habits that introduce excessive moisture to the area. This includes refraining from licking the lips and managing conditions that cause drooling, such as mouth-breathing during sleep. If you wear dentures, ensuring they fit properly is important, as ill-fitting appliances can create skin folds where saliva collects.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many cases of cracked mouth corners resolve with home care, a lack of improvement is a sign that professional help is needed. You should consult a healthcare provider if the cut does not show signs of healing within 7 to 10 days of consistent at-home treatment. This persistent irritation often indicates a more entrenched fungal or bacterial infection.
Medical attention is also necessary if the inflammation worsens, begins to spread beyond the corners of the mouth, or is accompanied by signs of a severe infection. These warning signs include intense pain, pronounced swelling, or the presence of pus. A doctor or dermatologist can perform a swab test to accurately identify the causative agent, whether it is yeast, bacteria, or a combination.
If a microbial cause is found, prescription-strength treatments, such as topical antifungal creams or antibiotic ointments, may be required to clear the infection. A healthcare provider can also order blood tests to check for underlying nutritional deficiencies, such as low Iron or B vitamin levels, which can be corrected with targeted supplements.