What are the Home Remedies for Angular cheilitis?
February 4, 2024 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Angular cheilitis, also known as perleche, is a common condition characterized by redness, inflammation, and cracking at the corners of the mouth. While medical treatment may be necessary in severe cases, there are several home remedies and self-care measures that may help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Here are some home remedies for angular cheilitis:
- Keep the affected area clean and dry: Wash the affected area gently with mild soap and water, and pat it dry thoroughly. Moisture and saliva can exacerbate angular cheilitis, so keeping the area clean and dry is essential.
- Apply petroleum jelly or lip balm: Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly, lip balm, or a natural moisturizer such as shea butter or coconut oil to the corners of the mouth to help prevent dryness and cracking. Reapply as needed throughout the day, especially after eating or drinking.
- Topical antifungal or antibacterial creams: Over-the-counter antifungal or antibacterial creams or ointments may help reduce inflammation and prevent secondary bacterial or fungal infections. Apply a small amount to the affected area according to the product instructions.
- Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial and wound-healing properties that may help soothe and heal cracked skin. Apply a small amount of raw honey to the corners of the mouth and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water.
- Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera gel has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce redness and inflammation associated with angular cheilitis. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the corners of the mouth and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with water.
- Avoid licking or biting the lips: Saliva can exacerbate angular cheilitis and delay healing, so avoid licking or biting the lips, and refrain from picking at the affected area.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep the skin hydrated and prevent dryness. Dehydration can exacerbate angular cheilitis symptoms, so staying hydrated is important for overall skin health.
- Avoid irritants: Avoid using harsh or irritating products on the lips, such as strong lip balms, lipsticks, or toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate. Opt for gentle, fragrance-free products instead.
- Vitamin and mineral supplements: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, vitamin B, and vitamin C, may contribute to angular cheilitis. Consider taking supplements or eating a balanced diet rich in these nutrients to support skin health and immune function.
- Dietary changes: Avoid acidic, spicy, or salty foods that may irritate the corners of the mouth and exacerbate symptoms. Stick to a soft, bland diet if eating is painful, and avoid foods that require excessive stretching of the mouth.
- Yogurt: Eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt may help rebalance the natural flora in the mouth and prevent secondary fungal infections. Include probiotic foods in your diet regularly to support overall oral health.
- Gentle stretching exercises: Perform gentle stretching exercises for the mouth and lips to prevent stiffness and promote healing. Open and close the mouth slowly and gently several times a day to maintain flexibility.
If home remedies do not provide significant improvement or if angular cheilitis symptoms worsen or persist despite self-care measures, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may prescribe topical or oral medications, such as antifungal or corticosteroid creams, to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Additionally, underlying medical conditions such as vitamin deficiencies or yeast infections may require specific treatment approaches, so it’s essential to seek medical advice for appropriate management.