Your lips could be sore and cracked for grim reason – not the cold weather
Your lips could be sore and cracked for grim reason – not the cold weather
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It's common for our skin and lips to feel more dry during the winter months – but that's not the only reason why your pout could be suffering. A skin specialist took to TikTok to share a nasty little secret that could be behind the discomfort. If you're battling sore smackers, you may want to look further than the cold weather outside, cold sores or chapped lips. He said: "Rule number one, don't think that this is a cold sore. Rule number two, don't consider this to be chapped lips." The actual villain? A pesky condition known as angular cheilitis.
The grim reality is your own drool could be the culprit because of its irritating digestive enzymes! He warned: "Once you get these cracks forming, bacteria and fungi around the mouth can then invade into the skin and cause an infection. If you're going to stand any chance of getting rid of them, you need to use targeted creams.". He recommended some products that could help to clear it up, adding: "So using a cream over the counter, such as Miconazole, can help because it can target candida, which is one of the common culprits when we think this is caused by fungal infection.
"Miconazole also has some anti-bacterial properties. However, if that doesn't work, then we also need a more targeted approach towards bacteria that could be there, and one of the most common culprits as far as the bacteria category is concerned is Staphylococcus aureus. "Something like Fucidin can help in this scenario. If, however, you're using all these creams and things aren't getting better, then you must see your doctor for some blood tests, because there are some deficiencies that can also cause this.".
People seemed to be very appreciative of the advice. One responder said: "Thank you doc." Another wrote: "Me at the moment." And a third added: "I always get this when I'm getting sick.". The expert also recommended applying Vaseline to the affected areas before bed to act as a barrier against drool irritating the skin. However, if you're troubled by persistent cracked lips and they're not improving, it's advisable to consult your GP for guidance.
