Credits: Social Media
Having crusty mouth corners is not chapped lips, reveals doctor
If you are a silent sufferer of crusty mouth corners who believes youve got chapped lips, were sorry to tell you that its actually a skin infection known as angular cheilitis.
We might technically still be in the fall, but that winter weather is hitting us hard. Its nearly time to de-ice your cars the right way, snuggle up with a cup of hot chocolate, and bang on your favorite festive movie. Nearly though, dont get ahead of yourself.
Crusty mouth corners are not chapped lips
We are all too familiar with waking up on a winters morning to find that our mouth corners are chapped, sore, and incredibly red. Its an embarrassing condition despite it being so prevalent during the colder months.
While most of us assume weve dribbled in our sleep or its a sign of chapped lips, dermatologist Dr Mark (@dermarkologist) confirmed that isnt the case in a recent TikTok.
Sharing a plethora of pictures with red and cracked mouth corners, Dr Mark said: Most people with these cracks at the corner of their lips just think that they have really dry lips. They actually have something called angular cheilitis.
Angular cheilitis often start as a singular crack or break until bacteria and yeast that live on your face get inside it. This causes inflammation and infection, causing the cracks to spread and intensify.
Usually this is caused by either staph bacteria or candida yeast, he added. It usually clears up pretty quickly with the right treatment.
If yeast is your issue then youll need over-the-counter Clotrimazole cream, but for staph, youll require antibiotic ointment that requires a prescription.
Its a very common infection
While its most common between the ages of 30 and 60, anyone regardless of age can develop angular cheilitis. One look at Dr Marks comment section confirmed that.
I get this every winter! Sooo not fun, one person quipped, as another said, Thank you!! Always thought this was chapped lips!
It wont make the bit of difference but if you do insist on using Vaseline, at least figure out how to use lip balm correctly.
