Angular cheilitis, also known as perlèche, is a common inflammatory condition that affects the corners of the mouth. It presents as painful cracks, redness, dryness, and sometimes bleeding. While it can be uncomfortable and unsightly, the good news is that angular cheilitis often responds well to at-home treatments.
Understanding the Causes of Angular Cheilitis
Before delving into treatments, it’s helpful to understand what causes this bothersome condition. Angular cheilitis develops when saliva gets trapped in the corners of your mouth, creating a moist environment that allows bacteria and fungi to thrive. Several factors can contribute to this, including:
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of iron, zinc, vitamin B12, or other B vitamins can increase your risk.
- Drooling: Common in infants and older adults, drooling can lead to saliva buildup in the corners of the mouth.
- Dentures: Poorly fitting dentures can create folds in the skin, trapping saliva and increasing the risk of infection.
- Skin conditions: Eczema, psoriasis, and seborrheic dermatitis can affect the skin around the mouth and make it more susceptible to infection.
- Mouth habits: Frequently licking your lips, thumb sucking, and using lip products containing irritants can exacerbate angular cheilitis.
Effective At-Home Treatments
While it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis, especially if your condition is severe or doesn’t improve, several home remedies can provide relief and promote healing:
1. Keep the Area Clean and Dry
Gently wash the affected area with mild soap and water twice daily. After washing, pat the area dry with a soft towel. Avoid rubbing, as this can further irritate the skin.
2. Apply a Protective Barrier
Applying a protective barrier can prevent further irritation and help lock in moisture. Effective options include:
- Petroleum jelly: A readily available and inexpensive option that forms a protective seal over the skin.
- Coconut oil: Its antibacterial and antifungal properties may help combat infection while moisturizing the area.
- Zinc oxide cream: Commonly used for diaper rash, zinc oxide cream creates a barrier and has soothing properties.
3. Address Nutritional Deficiencies
If you suspect your angular cheilitis might be linked to a nutritional deficiency, consider adding these foods to your diet:
- Iron: Red meat, spinach, beans, lentils
- Zinc: Oysters, nuts, seeds, beans
- Vitamin B12: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs
- B vitamins: Whole grains, leafy greens, legumes
4. Consider Natural Remedies
Certain natural remedies possess antifungal and antibacterial properties that may be beneficial:
- Tea tree oil: Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply it sparingly to the affected area.
- Aloe vera: Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera gel can be applied directly to the corners of the mouth.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While home remedies can be effective for mild cases, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional if:
- Your symptoms are severe or don’t improve after a week of home treatment.
- You experience excessive pain, bleeding, or pus.
- The cracks are deep or spreading.
- You have a weakened immune system.
Conclusion
Angular cheilitis, though uncomfortable, is a highly treatable condition. By understanding its causes and implementing these simple at-home treatments, you can find relief and prevent recurrence. If you have any concerns or your condition worsens, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.