How to Heal and Prevent Painful Cracks at the Corners of Your Mouth

Many people experience painful cracks at the corners of their lips, which can cause discomfort and affect facial expressions. What causes these cracks, and how can you effectively treat them?

Common Causes of Cracks at the Corners of the Mouth

Cracks at the corners of the mouth, often called angular cheilitis, can affect individuals of all ages regardless of environmental conditions. These cracks commonly appear during colder months when lips are exposed to wind and cold, leading to chapped skin. Habitual lip licking in cold or windy weather further aggravates the skin, causing small painful sores at the mouth’s edges. These minor cracks can usually heal within a couple of days with proper care, such as regularly applying lip balm and using natural remedies like honey or butter overnight, which have excellent healing properties.

However, underlying health issues can also contribute to these cracks. Deficiencies in essential minerals like zinc, iron, and magnesium, or vitamins A, B, and E, can weaken skin resilience. Addressing these deficiencies through vitamin supplements and a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote healing and prevent recurrence.

More serious causes include gastrointestinal problems, where stomach acid reflux irritates the mouth corners, damaging the skin. Additionally, infections such as oral thrush (candidiasis) or streptococcal infections require prompt medical attention, as cracked lips may be a symptom rather than the main issue.

Allergic reactions to lipsticks, glosses, or toothpaste can also trigger these painful cracks. It's important to check product ingredients and avoid suspected allergens for a few days to see if symptoms improve.

When cracks persist, bleed, or develop crusts that worsen with picking, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional. Proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent infections and promote faster recovery.

Effective Treatments to Heal Cracks at the Mouth Corners

For chapped lips caused by cold weather, the best prevention and treatment is consistent use of moisturizing lip balms or salves. Aloe vera juice, applied 2-3 times daily, soothes inflammation and accelerates healing. Herbal compresses soaked in infusions of plants like chamomile, sage, or celandine can also relieve symptoms. Applying vitamins A, E, and B topically several times a day supports tissue repair. Natural oils such as sea buckthorn, rosehip, and tea tree oil are excellent for reducing discomfort and promoting skin regeneration.

A popular home remedy involves cooking an apple in milk to create a soft paste. Applying this mixture on the cracked corners for 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water can nourish and heal the skin.

To support healing, avoid spicy, acidic, or salty foods and refrain from touching the sores to prevent infection. If fungal or bacterial infections are present, maintain strict hygiene: do not share cosmetics, avoid kissing, and use your own utensils and dishes.

While cracks at the corners of the mouth are common and usually easy to treat, understanding their cause and maintaining good lip care are key to preventing recurrence.

Photo: Shutterstock/FOTODOM

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