A dentist has issued a warning for those dealing with chapped lips, suggesting there might be an underlying infection that needs attention.
Winter brings several challenges, including shorter daylight hours, the flu, and for many, dry or chapped lips. Some individuals find that, despite frequent use of lip balm, their lips remain persistently dry.
Dr. Joyce Kahng, owner of Orange and Magnolia Dental Studio in California, offered insights into why this happens. Reacting to a video of a man with sores at the corners of his mouth, she explained that the cold weather might not be the sole culprit. Instead, it could be a fungal infection.
“This could actually be angular cheilitis,” Dr. Kahng, known as @joycethedentist on Instagram, stated. She elaborated, “Bacteria and yeast can infiltrate the cracked corners of the mouth, leading to an infection. This explains why chapstick doesn’t resolve the issue since it doesn’t target the root cause.”
Dr. Kahng identified two main culprits: Staph bacteria and Candida yeast. Fortunately, she also shared two solutions.
“If yeast is the cause, over-the-counter Clotrimazole can help. For bacterial infections, prescription antibiotic ointment is necessary. Seal everything with Vaseline, not chapstick,” she advised.
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She also warned against licking the corners of the mouth, a habit many with dry lips adopt. “People think saliva re-moisturizes the area, but it actually worsens the dryness,” Dr. Kahng explained.
More chronic cases of angular cheilitis might indicate underlying health conditions, such as nutritional deficiencies in iron or vitamin B12.
For those experiencing general dryness during winter, lip balm might suffice. However, if there’s a persistent problem, addressing a possible infection could provide lasting relief.