As the cold months roll in, we all expect a few seasonal inconveniences — shorter days, frosty mornings, and for many, dry or chapped lips. But what if your persistent lip cracks aren’t just a winter side effect? A leading dentist warns that in some cases, the culprit could be an infection hiding in plain sight.
When Chapped Lips Aren’t Just About the Weather
If your lips remain sore no matter how much balm you apply, it may be time to look beyond the obvious. Dr. Joyce Kahng, a California-based dentist and owner of Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio, says those stubborn cracks — especially in the corners of the mouth — might be angular cheilitis.
Unlike regular dryness, angular cheilitis is an inflammatory condition often caused by bacteria or yeast getting into tiny skin fissures. Left untreated, it can become painful and linger for weeks.
The Main Offenders: Staph Bacteria and Candida Yeast
According to Dr. Kahng, two primary causes drive angular cheilitis:
- Staph bacteria — a common skin bacterium that can turn into infection when given the right conditions.
- Candida yeast — a fungus that thrives in warm, moist areas like the corners of your mouth.
Once they settle in, they cause redness, swelling, and discomfort, making everyday actions like talking, eating, or smiling a challenge.
Why Lip Balm Won’t Heal an Infection
Here’s the problem — no matter how much chapstick you use, it won’t eliminate bacteria or yeast. Lip balm might soothe the surface temporarily, but it can’t address the root cause.
Dr. Kahng’s advice for treatment is simple and effective:
- If yeast is the cause: Use an over-the-counter antifungal cream such as Clotrimazole.
- If bacteria are the culprit: A prescription antibiotic ointment is your best option.
Once treated, protect the area with a layer of plain Vaseline to help seal in moisture and speed recovery.
Video : 15 Surprising Ways What Your LIPS Can Tell You About Your Health! Dr. Mandell
The Licking Habit That Makes Things Worse
One common mistake people make is licking their lips — especially the corners — in an attempt to add moisture. Dr. Kahng warns that this actually dries the skin out further. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving lips more dehydrated and cracked than before.
When Persistent Cracks Point to Bigger Health Issues
For some, angular cheilitis may be a recurring problem tied to deeper health concerns. Chronic cases can be linked to:
- Iron deficiency — which slows healing and makes skin more prone to damage.
- Vitamin B12 deficiency — which affects skin health and immune response.
If cracks at the corners of your mouth keep returning, it’s wise to check with a doctor for possible nutritional deficiencies or other underlying causes.
Chapped Lips vs. Angular Cheilitis: Spot the Difference
While both conditions cause discomfort, they differ in severity and cause.
- Chapped lips are usually spread across the lip surface, caused by dry air, cold wind, or dehydration.
- Angular cheilitis is localized to the corners of the mouth, often red, sore, and resistant to standard lip balm treatments.
If you’ve been using lip balm consistently without improvement, it may be time to investigate further.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Lips This Winter
To keep your lips healthy and avoid painful cracks:
- Apply a protective barrier like Vaseline before going outside.
- Drink enough water daily to stay hydrated.
- Avoid licking or biting your lips.
- Maintain a balanced diet with enough iron and vitamin B12.
Video : 5 Things Your LIPS Can Tell You about Your Nutritional State
Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Persistent Lip Cracks
Most winter lip dryness is harmless, but when cracks linger or worsen, especially at the mouth’s corners, it could be a sign of angular cheilitis. Addressing the underlying infection — whether bacterial, fungal, or nutritional — is the key to healing. Instead of endlessly applying lip balm, focus on targeted treatment and prevention so you can enjoy the season without discomfort.
