How to cure cracked lips at home. Cracked lips: causes and treatment How to cure a cracked lip

How to treat a crack on the lip, people who have cracked lips ask dermatologists. Lips are a very sensitive and easily irritated part of our face. With microcracks, dryness and peeling of the lips, it’s time to talk about problems in the body. In such cases, the usual cream is unlikely to get off.

Treatment of a crack on the lip: home methods

It is important to adhere not only to useful, but also safe methods of therapy. Chapped lips are not just a phenomenon. He has his own reasons.

Causes of cracks

Dry lips and microcracks are not at all attractive. A person begins to experience discomfort, since the lips are the most important receptor of the body. Cracks on the lips are formed due to certain reasons that need to be sorted out. Only then can treatment be prescribed. So, the causes of cracking can be as follows:

  • Dry skin - chapping of the face can occur under the influence of weather (cold, wind) or hygienic face care products (lipstick, lip gloss). You will need to moisturize and soften the skin.
  • Irritation from toothpaste is an individual intolerance to fluoride, which is so rich in many dental care products. A person can pick up not only allergies, but also dry lips.
  • Nicotine - smoking weakens not only the lungs, but also the lips. The skin takes on a dry appearance, and after some time it cracks completely.
  • Troubles associated with the gastrointestinal tract - most often these are intestinal infections. The body gives us signals, one of which is dry lips. It is time to talk about the presence of herpes, candidiasis or dysbacteriosis. The best thing to do is go to the hospital.


Women suffer the most from cracked lips. And it destroys them, paradoxical as it sounds, beauty. The use of branded lipsticks, lip glosses and all kinds of wax crayons leads to irritation on the face. On top of that, lips become vulnerable to cold wind and frost. In this regard, it is recommended to carefully select your cosmetic arsenal. Poor quality products can cause cracking of the lips.

Treatment process

The aesthetically unpleasant state of the lips can cause some discomfort to their owner. Cracking often leads to infectious diseases. Therefore, it is required to start the process of treating cracked lips as soon as possible. In this regard, physicians distinguish several stages:

  • getting rid of the causes that caused damage to the lips;
  • direct treatment of the skin near the mouth;
  • preventive measures against the recurrence of the disease.

Before determining the method of treating cracks on the lip, you need to understand the cause of the problem. For example, cracking was provoked by dry skin. The method of treatment will consist in moisturizing and softening the face with the help of external agents in the form of a cream, ointment, etc. The body will need to replenish the vitamin complex lost during dryness. Therefore, it is also recommended to recharge your batteries. There will be a general improvement in the functioning of the body, and the skin and lips will take on their original appearance.

If staphylococci, streptococci or fungi are found, it is necessary to undergo a full course of treatment already with a specialist. Under the influence of bacteria, lips can become covered with pustules. Their abscess and development are fraught with a general infection of the body. An immediate diagnosis is required, which is carried out in a medical institution. During therapy, the doctor will prescribe painkillers or drugs to restore the skin. Wounds will begin to heal, and the skin will return to its previous shape.

Video "How to protect lips from cracks"

Alternative treatment: folk methods for treating cracks

At the same time, cracked lips can be caused by less significant causes. In this case, folk methods to fix the problem are suitable. You can use the tools at hand that are in every home. So, let's figure out how to treat cracks on the lip at home:

  1. Honey - bees produce a very strong antiseptic that has a softening effect on human skin. It is enough to lubricate the lips with natural honey a couple of times a day. It is both tasty and healthy.
  2. Vegetable oil - cocoa, sea buckthorn oil or calendula tincture. They have a softening effect on the surface of the lips. Cracks gradually disappear. Using a Q-tip, apply the oil to your lips before bed.
  3. Aloe juice - take a leaf of a plant, and then squeeze out all the juice from it. Apply to chapped lips using cotton swabs.


Preventive measures

The frequent appearance of cracks on the lips is a signal for prevention. When weathering or reddening of the surface of the mouth, it is necessary to lubricate the lips. Hemp oil is great. In the morning you will not feel any dryness or cracks on your lips.

Linseed oil can be used as a cream. In winter, and especially windy weather, it is advisable to lubricate the lips with natural fat. Badger fat, petroleum jelly or butter is taken as the basis. By moisturizing your lips, you will protect them from cold air.


Dry lips are a reason to constantly carry hygienic lipstick in tubes with you. During the day, you can lubricate the lips with cream so that they do not dry out. In hot weather, glosses with protection from the sun's rays are used.

With improper nutrition, cracking of the lips can also appear. Include oatmeal, fruits, dairy products, herbs and butter in your daily diet. Sometimes cracks are formed due to excessive consumption of sugar and flour products. By eliminating them from the diet, you can get rid of dry skin.

Prevention includes rinsing the mouth, taking tests for culture, checking blood for globulin and iron. Diabetes can also cause fissures, so only the underlying disease is treated.

Do not forget about regular lip massage. In this way, you can ensure blood flow and eliminate dryness. Do not bite or lick your lips, especially in winter. It is important to carefully carry out prevention so as not to self-medicate.

Video " cracked lips"

Video "Protecting lips from cracks"

A crack on the lip, especially in the middle, is quite painful. The slightest touch to the wound, the ingestion of food on it cause irritation. Moreover, all these factors do not allow the crack to heal. As soon as she begins to tighten, suddenly, from the movement of her lips during a conversation or a smile, she begins to bleed again. What to do? There are several ways to get rid of this problem.

Sores on the lips in the form of cracks can occur in people regardless of gender and age. More often they form in the center of the lower lip or in the corners of the mouth. There are several reasons for the occurrence of cracks:

Some of these factors and the neglect of treatment can provoke the appearance of chronic cracks.

Methods of treatment

How to treat chapped lips? Treatment is prescribed depending on the causes that provoked the appearance of cracks and the condition of the wounds.

If the lesions on the lips have taken a chronic form, then it is urgent to consult a doctor. In this case, cracks are just the “tip of the iceberg”, much more serious problems can be hidden inside the body. Often the lip cracks with diabetes, with disorders in the digestive system. Only by eliminating the focus of the disease, which led to the occurrence of cracks, can we hope for a successful disposal of painful lesions on the lips.

Therapeutic prescriptions for cracks in most cases are conservative - these are anti-inflammatory and wound healing ointments and creams:

If the cause of the cracks is explained by a superficial nature, then the treatment consists in moisturizing the membrane and tissues of the lips and in the speedy delay of the damage.
To do this, you can use cosmetics and masks according to traditional medicine recipes.

Protective lip balms and moisturizing lip balm should be used regularly to eliminate the problem of lip damage and prevent its further occurrence. When buying, pay special attention to those products that contain vitamins, wax, herbal extracts, oils and hyaluronic acid in their composition. Lipstick or balm is applied to the lips 20-30 minutes before the main make-up, smearing the lips with a moisturizer, they must be massaged very carefully, trying not to touch the crack.

Of the cosmetology products that promote the healing of cracks, creams can be distinguished:


Homemade masks will also help get rid of cracked lips:

Mask "Cottage cheese and carrots"

Mix freshly squeezed carrot juice with fatty cottage cheese, lubricate the lips with this composition before going to bed, holding it on the lips for 15 minutes

Mask "Oil and Kiwi"

Mix the ingredients and gently apply to the entire surface of the lips, paying special attention to the sore spot.

Mask "Honey and vitamins"

Mix the contents of the capsule thoroughly with honey and lubricate damaged lips several times a day. Warm up slightly before application.

Nutrition and vitamins

Often, lips crack from an improper diet, and the resulting lack of vitamins and minerals.

Be sure to include fish, meat, milk, fresh fruits and vegetables in the menu.

To restore the level of vitamin "A" will help:


The lack of vitamin "E" will make up for:


Iron deficiency is also not the best way affects the health of the whole body and lips as well. In order to avoid anemia, you need to make sure that buckwheat, prunes, beef, liver, and seafood are present in the diet.

You can buy vitamin complexes and dietary supplements. Of the many similar products presented in pharmacies, you should pay attention to the following drugs:


They include vitamins (A, E, almost all B groups), biotin, ribonucleic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid, rutin, L-cysteine, betaine, bioflavonoids, citrus fruits, medicinal plant extracts, trace elements (copper, zinc, phosphorus, manganese, iron, iodine, magnesium).

Thanks to these active ingredients, these dietary supplements not only compensate for the deficiency of vitamins and trace elements, but also improve the appearance. Recommended in the complex treatment of skin diseases: erosion, dermatitis, cracks.

Course reception: 3 times a day, 1 tablet (dredge) for 2 weeks. It is not necessary to abuse the funds, an excess of vitamins can also appear as cracks on the lips.

Folk recipes

Grandma's recipes as a way to cure a cracked lip are quite simple, and judging by the reviews, they are effective.

Natural balms

Lubricate the wounds on the lips with butter, you can melt it. It is better if this product is homemade. Yes, it is more expensive in cost, but there is a guarantee that there are no impurities and substitutes in the composition.

No lip balm can match the effectiveness of curing chapped lips with rendered poultry fat. For treatment, this product can be mixed in equal proportions with liquid honey.

Homemade ointments

"Cinquefoil and Oil"

Rinse the vegetable raw materials thoroughly, dry them in a draft (not in the oven!) and grind. Melt the butter, add a tablespoon of powder from the root of the cinquefoil to it and simmer for 1-2 minutes on fire. Pour the product into a convenient jar.

Lubricate their lips in the morning and evening.

"Cocoa and Butter"

The ointment is prepared similarly to the previous recipe, only the root powder should be replaced with the same amount of cocoa powder. You need to buy bitter confectionery powder, and not one that is intended for baby food.

Prevention measures

To protect lips from cracking, you need to remember the rules. They are not difficult, but important:

And also from early childhood, you need to learn regular hygiene and sanitation of the oral cavity, in the future, categorically abandon bad habits. If a crack on the lip nevertheless appears, you should not be afraid - if you do not delay the treatment, the problem is eliminated quite quickly. After all, there are many ways to do this.

Cracks on the lips are an unpleasant phenomenon. In addition to a cosmetic problem, they deliver painful sensations. Even small injuries can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Why cracks appear on the lips, and what means will help get rid of them, we will tell in today's article.

Why do cracked lips appear? Causes.

The main causes of cracked lips are:

  1. Dry skin caused by weather conditions and the microclimate of the room. If the lips crack due to insufficient air humidity, then for prevention it is necessary to lubricate the skin with protective agents that prevent excessive evaporation.
  2. Allergy. Cracks on the lips can be a manifestation of an allergic reaction to hygiene products, cosmetics. The situation will be corrected by taking antihistamines and avoiding contact with the irritant.
  3. The habit of licking lips or biting. Quite often it is the cause of cracks. Covering the skin of the lips with saliva leads to increased evaporation of moisture, the skin becomes drier and cracks.
  4. Mechanical damage. The cause of cracks can be seemingly harmless habits of holding metal objects in your mouth, biting a ballpoint pen or pencil.
  5. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and its pathologies. For example, Herpes, Candidiasis. If there is a suspicion of bacterial infections, then you will need to seek help from qualified specialists and undergo a diagnosis.
  6. Lack or excess of vitamin A. Its amount in the body is responsible for the condition of the skin of the lips and its moisture.

How to treat cracked lips? What to smear?

In the treatment, agents will be used that promote healing of lesions, nourish the delicate skin of the lips, form a protective layer and replenish moisture. How to smear cracks for their speedy healing?

The main active ingredient is zinc oxide. Produced in tubes of 25, 30 gr. and glass jars of 20 gr. It is applied topically in the form of lubrication or applications 2-5 times a day. Treatment is carried out until complete recovery. It has a wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, drying and antiseptic effect. Forms a protective barrier on the wound and prevents the development of skin inflammation. Analogues: Desitin, Zinc paste, Diaderm.

Advantages of Zinc ointment: low cost, prevalence, versatility.

Side effects: in rare cases, it can cause an allergic reaction. The use of zinc ointment is unacceptable if there are purulent substances in the crack.

The main active ingredient is Levomecithin. Available in glass jars or aluminum tubes. Refers to antibiotics and has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Prevents the growth of bacteria and contributes to their death. The composition of the ointment includes novocaine, so it has a slight analgesic effect. It is applied externally to cleansed and dry skin of the lips.

Advantages: prevalence, wide action,

Disadvantages: Synthomycil ointment has a fairly large number of contraindications. May have complex side effects, for example, cause a malfunction in the hematopoietic system or.

Solcoseryl paste/gel/ointment

The main active ingredient is dialysate from the blood of cattle. It is widely used for the treatment of diseases of the oral cavity, dental problems and skin lesions. Apply several times a day and lightly moisten with water on top. Activates metabolism, promotes tissue regeneration, improves metabolism. Contains Polidocanol, which has a local anesthetic effect. Covers the wound with a protective film that prevents the penetration of microbes and protects from external influences.

Advantages: high efficiency, the possibility of use in children and pregnant women.

Disadvantages: the cost is higher than that of the previous means.

If the cause of the damage is superficial and the cracks are not the result of serious diseases of the internal organs, then the treatment consists in accelerating the regeneration of the skin.

Bepanthen cream/ointment

The active ingredient is Dexpanthenol. Produced in tubes of 30 gr. It has a moisturizing and stimulating skin regeneration effect. Normalizes cellular metabolism. Has a slight anti-inflammatory effect. Analogues: D-Panthenol, Korneregel, Pantoderm.

Advantages: has no contraindications, except for individual intolerance to the components. Safe if swallowed.

Disadvantages: rather high cost, but very economical consumption. It is also one of the fastest.

The main active ingredients are extracts of medicinal herbs and plants. Ingredients: Sandalwood, Ginger Lily, Turmeric, Aloe. An effective antiseptic. Prevents suppuration, accelerates the healing process of skin lesions. Relieves itching and redness. It is used for the treatment and prevention of cracks.

Pros: Affordable, inexpensive. It is sold not only in pharmacies, but also in cosmetic stores.

Disadvantages: the multicomponent composition of plant extracts often causes allergies.

Natural herbal preparation. It has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, wound-healing effect. It can be used both for the treatment and for the prevention of cracks. Nourishes the skin with useful substances, makes it more elastic and resistant to damage. Available in bottles of 30, 50, 100 ml.

Advantages: low cost, availability, safety, versatility. There are no contraindications for external use. Only individual intolerance is possible.

Cons: None found.

Vitamin preparation, which consists of Retinol and vitamin E. It is produced in the form of oil capsules placed in blisters. It is used to eliminate dry skin, nourish and protect against external irritants. Restores blood circulation in damaged tissues. It is applied internally and externally. The oil capsule is pierced and the contents are applied to the lips.

Advantages: effective tool, inexpensive, affordable.

Disadvantages: May cause allergic reactions.

Beautiful, plump and tender lips have always been an attribute of beauty and attractiveness. Since ancient times, both women and men have used different means to care for and maintain the beauty of the lips and give them a well-groomed appearance. The softness of the lips has always been considered simply a necessity for a woman who wants to please a man.

Nothing has changed today, the beauty of the lips is very important for any woman, we all still want to please the opposite sex, to be attractive and seductive, so the appearance of cracks on the lips is a very unpleasant phenomenon.

Why do lips crack?

Of course, before telling how to treat, you need to figure out why they appear and how you can prevent their occurrence. Cracks on the lips are not only an aesthetic problem, but also health and personal comfort, as it is not only ugly but also unpleasant.

There are several reasons for the appearance of cracks on the lips., among the most common is frequent biting and licking of the lips. A person temporarily feels some comfort from the fact that the lips are wet, but very quickly become dry and tight. Just like hair, our skin is more sensitive to irritants when wet, especially when exposed to factors such as wind or frost.

The second reason is dry skin. as a result of inadequate hydration and care. Our skin, including the skin of the lips, needs special care, especially in winter, cold and wind dry it out very much, so the use of nourishing masks and oily creams is not only appropriate, but necessary.

Another of the factors affecting the condition of the lips and the beauty of the skin in general is this. The appearance of cracks on the lips, especially in the corners of the mouth, may indicate that the body lacks iron, B vitamins. As a result, after the appearance of cracks in the corners of the mouth, they can become infected with staphylococci or fungi, so the treatment of cracks should take place in different ways .

Treatment of cracked lips

By tradition, let's start with therapeutic and preventive methods to prevent the appearance of cracks on the lips. First, you need to ensure optimal hydration of the whole body, that is, you need to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. We are talking exclusively about clean water, tea, coffee, juices and other drinks are not included in this category.

Secondly, no one canceled the daily. Do not neglect the hygienic lipsticks for the lips. If you prefer decorative lipstick to hygienic, you can try to combine them, before applying decorative lipstick, apply a thin layer of lip balm.

Also, it is very useful sometimes to pay attention to the composition of the lipstick that you are going to buy. It is desirable that it includes moisturizing oils, such as avocado or almond oil, vitamins E and A.

As effective and proven folk remedies, many recommend using butter, avocado oil or natural honey. All these products are rich not only in vitamins but also in caring elements.

There are a lot of folk remedies and methods of treatment, among the simplest again butter, avocado oil or, the use of bee honey. By the way, honey not only nourishes the skin, but having an anti-inflammatory property, it can prevent inflammation. But there are also more exotic recipes, such as using bird fat, cottage cheese products and a drop of carrot juice. Which methods to use depends on the desire and patience of each.

What everyone should know is that if red spots appear on the lips or an inflammatory process is noticeable, you should definitely contact a specialist.

What is the conclusion? To prevent cracked lips, you need to drink plenty of water, provide the body with all the necessary vitamins and do not forget about balms and lip masks. If cracks have already appeared, it is better to buy a good anti-inflammatory balm at the pharmacy. Well, if around the cracks the skin begins to turn red and inflamed, but you need to see a doctor, he will prescribe the right drugs.

Complete collection and description: cracked lips: causes, treatment and healing methods for readers of our site.

Cracks in the corners of the mouth (the so-called bites on the lips) are, as a rule, unpleasantly painful and always occur extremely untimely. It is very annoying when you prepare in advance for a celebration or a romantic date and one morning you feel painful tightness, reddish swelling and cracking of the skin in the corners of the mouth .

At first glance, this defect is very insignificant, but you should not consider it so unambiguously, because it indicates that there are violations in the body. Therefore, sometimes jamming is a symptom of another disease. This means that sometimes it manifests itself as an independent violation, and in another case - as a sign of a different pathology.

In this article, we will consider the main causes of cracks in the corners of the lips, as well as effective ways to treat the disease at home, including using folk remedies.

Angular stomatitis, in the common people - seizures in the corners of the mouth, do not depend on age and can appear in a man and a woman, an adult and a child. True, among men they are more common than among women, since the fair sex “protects” their lips with lipstick.

Clinical manifestation of a crack in the corners of the mouth:

  1. itchy skin;
  2. Significant redness of the skin;
  3. A small wound in the corners of the mouth;
  4. Pain while opening the mouth;
  5. Pain and discomfort;
  6. The appearance of water under the skin of a jam.

The patient constantly feels itching and burning, it becomes painful to talk, it is impossible to paint the lips, and when eating salty and sour foods, the pain increases even more. In especially severe cases, some refuse to eat at all due to severe pain when opening their mouths. With untimely treatment, not only crusts can form, but also bleeding ulcers.

Causes of cracks in the corners of the mouth

What does it mean? If cracks appear in the corners of the lips, then the reasons lie in the defeat of microorganisms. Certain bacteria can cause this defect. However, before starting treatment, it is necessary to find out why they hit the skin in this particular place. Of the large number of species, only two can provoke such an ailment - streptococci or yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida.

  1. Candidamicotic jam appears in the corners of the lips, in this case, the causes of cracks are fungi of the genus Candida. At the same time, there is no crust on the crack, only the so-called slit-like erosion appears. If a person's mouth is closed, then the crack is not noticeable. When the mouth opens, there is palpable discomfort and pain. If the treatment of cracks in the corners of the mouth is not carried out in a timely manner, then the disease becomes chronic and periodically worsens.
  2. With streptococcal infection, a bubble appears in the corners of the mouth, which disappears relatively quickly, and then a crack with a crust develops in its place. As a rule, such a crust is periodically torn off (children especially often rip it off). How to treat cracks in the corners of the mouth in this case, the doctor determines. But if you do not use a special ointment or other remedy, then the disease can drag on for a long time.

But the reasons for the appearance of cracks are not limited to this, such risk factors can also affect the condition of the skin of the lips:

  1. Incorrect brushing of teeth, advanced tooth decay and other mouth problems that can be caused by infections. Non-compliance with the basics of personal hygiene can also affect the appearance of cracks.
  2. Avitaminosis. This is probably one of the main reasons for the appearance of cracks. Most often they appear due to a deficiency of B vitamins, as well as iron, zinc. From this, immunity decreases, the body weakens, jams appear.
  3. Disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Almost always, a violation of the digestive system is manifested externally, including, it is indicated by cracks. Also, very often they appear in the presence of E. coli, which releases toxins.
  4. Bite characteristics. Cracked corners of the child's lips may indicate that the baby has an overbite. If one jaw protrudes above the other, irritation may occur at the corners of the lips. And this can also cause cracks.
  5. Allergic reactions. Allergy of the body to any cosmetic product or toothpaste can also lead to seizures.
  6. Carbohydrates, alcohol. In the event that you are a lover of sugar, sweets, cakes, buns or abuse alcohol, cracks in the corners of the lips are likely.
  7. Weather conditions: cold, frost, wind, sun, dry air.
  8. Deficiency in the body of iron;
  9. Metabolic disease.

From this it follows that, first of all, before starting treatment, it is necessary to find out the main causes of the appearance of cracks in the corners of the lips, and only then to select suitable preparations.

A photo

You can see how cracks look in the corners of the lips (mouth) in adults in detailed photos:

What to do?

To figure out how to treat cracks in the corners of the mouth, the doctor must not only diagnose the symptom, but also determine the cause of its development. Since the causative agent of this pathology can be different, the treatment will be different. Therefore, before appointing him, an examination is carried out. It includes:

  • smear from the oral cavity;
  • scraping from the wound surface;
  • consultation of a therapist, dentist, endocrinologist and hematologist;
  • general analysis of blood and urine.

Smears and scrapings make it possible to determine the presence of certain microorganisms at the site of erosion or in the oral cavity. Which in turn allows you to choose an effective drug.

How to treat cracks in the corners of the lips?

  1. Avocado, tea tree, flax, sea buckthorn and rosehip oils. A daily light massage of the lips will help soften rough skin.
  2. Hygienic lipsticks and balms. Apply to chapped skin daily in the morning and evening.
  3. Thermal waters. Water bottles are sold at any pharmacy. Regular use of the spray will relieve irritation.
  4. Lotions from decoctions of sage, celandine or chamomile.

Below is a list of foods that you need to add to your daily menu if there is such a problem as cracks in the corners of the mouth, the causes of which may be different.

  1. With a deficiency of vitamin B, you need to eat nuts, bran, green leafy vegetables, cabbage, avocados, rice (unpeeled).
  2. If a zinc deficiency is found in the body, then attention should be paid to sprouted wheat grains, seafood, brewer's yeast, eggs, greens, pumpkin seeds.
  3. If the causes of the problem are a lack of iron, then iron-containing foods are recommended: hercules, potatoes, buckwheat, rye, nuts, parsley, peaches, pomegranates; from meat - beef, pork, liver, kidneys.

Sometimes cracks in the corners of the lips can be the result of fungal diseases or streptococcal infections. In this case, in order not to infect anyone from your environment, you need to isolate personal items and use special preparations. Do not prescribe them yourself, it is better to consult a specialist.

Treatment with folk remedies

In most cases, you can get rid of the jam yourself at home.

  1. A proven remedy is aloe juice. Cut a fresh leaf, squeeze the juice out of it. Apply liberally to the corners of the lips.
  2. Sea buckthorn oil is very effective. Avocado oil is often used. These oils should be used to treat cracks on the lips, between the lips at the corners of the lips. - Angular stomatitis should be treated with garlic. Also try to treat with psyllium extract.
  3. Try to make this lip mask regularly: mix in a small cup 1 tsp. freshly squeezed carrot juice and 1 c. l. ground fresh cottage cheese. Apply the mixture generously on the lips, hold for 10-15 minutes. Then remove the mask with a cotton pad dipped in olive oil.
  4. Lubricate the cracks with hygienic lipstick, as well as apply special cosmetic and medical products that soften the skin of the lips.
  5. Of the medical preparations, you can try the following remedies: Aquaftem, Iruksol, Vishnevsky and Levomikol. Ointments are applied to the corners of the lips three times a day.

If cracks in the corners of the lips appear constantly and itching or burning occurs, you should not self-medicate. In some cases, seizures indicate serious diseases of the body.

Cracks on the lips are an unpleasant phenomenon, which, in addition to cosmetic discomfort, can be accompanied by a large number of other clinical signs. To date, a rather narrow range of factors is known that are the reason that people have cracked lips. Etiological sources can be both completely harmless and pathological.

In addition to the main symptom, patients may also complain of pain, discomfort while eating or talking, inability to open their mouth wide or smile.

It is not difficult to diagnose a crack on the lower or upper lip, it is much more difficult to find out the source of such a symptom - this requires a comprehensive examination of the patient, which includes laboratory and instrumental diagnostic methods.

Regardless of the cause, the treatment of a cracked lip will be conservative, but this only applies to the clinical sign, and not to the underlying disease. In some situations, medical intervention may be required to eliminate the etiological factor.

Etiology

Despite the fact that a rather narrow range of sources contributes to the appearance of cracks on the lips, clinicians divide them into those that are associated with the course of a disease or do not have a pathological nature.

Thus, the following diseases can cause cracks on the lips in a child or adult:

  • the course of herpes, which is very often accompanied by rashes, the skin of the upper or lower lip quickly cracks nearby;
  • hypovitaminosis is a condition in which the human body does not receive enough nutrients. In this case, we are talking about a deficiency of vitamins A and E, as well as group B;
  • the presence of a person in the history of chronic diseases of the digestive system or diabetes mellitus;
  • the development of any bacterial infection;
  • allergic reactions - food, household chemicals, animal hair or pollen, as well as cosmetics can act as a provocateur;
  • the formation of stomatitis, which is characterized by the course of the inflammatory process in the oral cavity.

Herpes on the lips

Cracks appear on the upper or lower lip against the background of such physiological factors:

  • long-term addiction to bad habits, namely to smoking cigarettes;
  • frequent licking of the lips - very often this happens against the background of the fact that the skin dries out, which makes it necessary to moisturize it. In some cases, this happens quite unconsciously, which has a detrimental effect, since, when dried, the saliva contributes to the cracking of the lips;
  • use of low-quality lipstick. In the vast majority of situations, this happens when using excessively wet lipstick in the cold season - it can freeze and lead to such an unpleasant symptom. You can also harm your lips in the warm season - cheap dyes, which are often part of summer lip gloss, lead to drying out of the skin;
  • insufficient air humidity in a residential, office or any other room where a person spends a lot of time;
  • adverse weather conditions - this should include strong winds and the influence of low temperatures;
  • mechanical damage to the lips, for example, the habit of biting the lips, holding metal objects in the mouth, and biting a pencil or ballpoint pen.

Separately, it is worth noting about the cracks in the corners of the lips, the formation of which is caused by:

  • staphylococcus infection;
  • pathological influence of yeast fungi;
  • malocclusion.

Otherwise, the reasons why cracking of the lips appears in this area coincide with the above factors.

Classification

There are several characteristics by which cracks on the lips of a child and an adult differ:

  • at the place of localization - on the lower or upper lip, and the corners of the lips often suffer. It is noteworthy that most often, namely in 65% of cases, it is the lower lip that is affected;
  • by number - single and multiple. In the first case, it is advisable to mention cracks in the middle of the lip, which occur in 70% of patients. In other cases, the simultaneous formation of from two to four cracks is observed;
  • in size - small (no more than 0.5 cm) and large (up to 1.5 cm);
  • by nature - longitudinal and transverse.

Symptoms

Cracks in the lips

The clinical picture will depend entirely on the cause of the crack in the corners of the lips or in the middle of the lip. However, a category of general symptoms is distinguished, expressed regardless of the nature of the cracking of the skin on the lips.

Thus, additional features can be:

  • itching and burning of the affected segment;
  • pain syndrome, aggravated during a meal;
  • discomfort when talking or eating;
  • inability to smile broadly or open your mouth;
  • bleeding - if the crack is damaged;
  • limitation of lip movement.

Otherwise, the symptoms will be individual for each person, but in any case, regardless of the cause, if such a manifestation occurs, you should seek qualified help as soon as possible.

Diagnostics

From what cracks appear in the corners of the lips or in the middle of the lower one, a specialist from the field of dermatology can find out, who can not only conduct an adequate diagnosis and prescribe treatment, but also, if necessary, refer the patient for consultations to doctors from narrower areas of medicine.

First of all, the clinician should:

  • study the medical history - to confirm or refute the fact that pathological conditions became the causes of the development of the main symptom;
  • collect and analyze the patient's life history - this is necessary when physiological factors contribute to cracks;
  • carefully inspect the affected area;
  • interview the patient in detail - to find out what symptoms are present in the clinical picture of a particular patient.

Laboratory studies are limited to the implementation of a general analysis and blood biochemistry - to clarify the type of pathological agent that could serve as a source of damage to the corners of the lips.

Instrumental diagnostic procedures are necessary only in cases where chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract acted as an etiological factor. At the same time, ultrasound of the peritoneum, radiography both with and without contrast, as well as CT and MRI are performed.

In some cases, consultations may be needed:

  • gastroenterologist;
  • infectiologist;
  • dentist
  • immunologist-allergist.

Treatment

It seems possible to remove cracks using conservative methods, including the preparation of therapeutic ointments at home or the use of topical medicines.

The most effective ways to get rid of cracked lips are represented by such medicinal substances:

  • "Zinc ointment";
  • "Synthomycin ointment";
  • "Solcoseryl" - available as a paste, gel and cream;
  • "Bepanten" - the medicine has the form of an ointment and cream;
  • cream "Boro-plus";
  • "Aevit" - vitamins used orally.

Vitamins Aevit

Another method of how to cure cracked lips in children and adults involves the use of the following components at home:

  • sea ​​buckthorn ointment;
  • aloe juice;
  • warmed butter or hemp oil;
  • a mixture of apple gruel and cottage cheese;
  • vegetable oil and carrot juice with pulp - applied as a mask to a sore lip;
  • honey, butter and cocoa.

Many of these ingredients are allergens, for this reason, such treatment must be preceded by a consultation with your doctor.

The above methods of therapy effectively deal with the main clinical symptom, but not with the pathology that caused it. Since the causes can be very diverse, the therapy will be individual for each patient.

Prevention and prognosis

So that people do not have questions about how to treat cracks in the lips, general preventive rules should be followed, because specific recommendations that prevent the development of such a skin defect have not yet been developed.

From this it follows that prevention includes:

  • complete rejection of addictions, especially smoking;
  • the use of hygienic lipsticks in the cold season;
  • the use of only high-quality cosmetics that correspond to the season;
  • proper and balanced nutrition - to ensure stable remission in diseases of the digestive system;
  • avoiding the habit of constantly licking your lips, as well as biting pens and pencils;
  • enrichment of the diet with a large number of vitamins;
  • treatment of gastroenterological, dental and other pathologies that can lead to the occurrence of such a symptom.

In addition, do not forget that you need to undergo a complete preventive examination in a medical institution at least twice a year.

If a person has cracked lips against the background of harmless factors, then the prognosis will often be favorable. However, in the opposite situation, when pathological conditions became the causes, one should not forget that one or another underlying ailment can lead to complications.

Cracks on the lips are an unpleasant phenomenon. In addition to a cosmetic problem, they deliver painful sensations. Even small injuries can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Why cracks appear on the lips, and what means will help get rid of them, we will tell in today's article.

Why do cracked lips appear? Causes.

The main causes of cracked lips are:

  1. Dry skin caused by weather conditions and the microclimate of the room. If the lips crack due to insufficient air humidity, then for prevention it is necessary to lubricate the skin with protective agents that prevent excessive evaporation.
  2. Allergy. Cracks on the lips can be a manifestation of an allergic reaction to hygiene products, cosmetics. The situation will be corrected by taking antihistamines and avoiding contact with the irritant.
  3. The habit of licking lips or biting. Quite often it is the cause of cracks. Covering the skin of the lips with saliva leads to increased evaporation of moisture, the skin becomes drier and cracks.
  4. Mechanical damage. The cause of cracks can be seemingly harmless habits of holding metal objects in your mouth, biting a ballpoint pen or pencil.
  5. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and its pathologies. For example, Herpes, Candidiasis. If there is a suspicion of bacterial infections, then you will need to seek help from qualified specialists and undergo a diagnosis.
  6. Lack or excess of vitamin A. Its amount in the body is responsible for the condition of the skin of the lips and its moisture.

How to treat cracked lips? What to smear?

In the treatment, agents will be used that promote healing of lesions, nourish the delicate skin of the lips, form a protective layer and replenish moisture. How to smear cracks for their speedy healing?

Zinc ointment

The main active ingredient is zinc oxide. Produced in tubes of 25, 30 gr. and glass jars of 20 gr. It is applied topically in the form of lubrication or applications 2-5 times a day. Treatment is carried out until complete recovery. It has a wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, drying and antiseptic effect. Forms a protective barrier on the wound and prevents the development of skin inflammation. Analogues: Desitin, Zinc paste, Diaderm.

Advantages of Zinc ointment: low cost, prevalence, versatility.

Side effects: in rare cases, it can cause an allergic reaction. The use of zinc ointment is unacceptable if there are purulent substances in the crack.

Synthomycin ointment

The main active ingredient is Levomecithin. Available in glass jars or aluminum tubes. Refers to antibiotics and has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. Prevents the growth of bacteria and contributes to their death. The composition of the ointment includes novocaine, so it has a slight analgesic effect. It is applied externally to cleansed and dry skin of the lips.

Advantages: prevalence, wide action,

Disadvantages: Synthomycil ointment has a fairly large number of contraindications. May have complex side effects, for example, cause a malfunction in the hematopoietic system or.

Solcoseryl paste/gel/ointment

The main active ingredient is dialysate from the blood of cattle. It is widely used for the treatment of diseases of the oral cavity, dental problems and skin lesions. Apply several times a day and lightly moisten with water on top. Activates metabolism, promotes tissue regeneration, improves metabolism. Contains Polidocanol, which has a local anesthetic effect. Covers the wound with a protective film that prevents the penetration of microbes and protects from external influences.

Advantages: high efficiency, the possibility of use in children and pregnant women.

Disadvantages: the cost is higher than that of the previous means.

If the cause of the damage is superficial and the cracks are not the result of serious diseases of the internal organs, then the treatment consists in accelerating the regeneration of the skin.

Bepanthen cream/ointment

The active ingredient is Dexpanthenol. Produced in tubes of 30 gr. It has a moisturizing and stimulating skin regeneration effect. Normalizes cellular metabolism. Has a slight anti-inflammatory effect. Analogues: D-Panthenol, Korneregel, Pantoderm.

Advantages: has no contraindications, except for individual intolerance to the components. Safe if swallowed.

Disadvantages: rather high cost, but very economical consumption. It is also one of the fastest.

Cream Boro-plus

The main active ingredients are extracts of medicinal herbs and plants. Ingredients: Sandalwood, Ginger Lily, Turmeric, Aloe. An effective antiseptic. Prevents suppuration, accelerates the healing process of skin lesions. Relieves itching and redness. It is used for the treatment and prevention of cracks.

Pros: Affordable, inexpensive. It is sold not only in pharmacies, but also in cosmetic stores.

Disadvantages: the multicomponent composition of plant extracts often causes allergies.

Sea buckthorn oil

Natural herbal preparation. It has anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, wound-healing effect. It can be used both for the treatment and for the prevention of cracks. Nourishes the skin with useful substances, makes it more elastic and resistant to damage. Available in bottles of 30, 50, 100 ml.

Advantages: low cost, availability, safety, versatility. There are no contraindications for external use. Only individual intolerance is possible.

Cons: None found.

Aevit

Vitamin preparation, which consists of Retinol and vitamin E. It is produced in the form of oil capsules placed in blisters. It is used to eliminate dry skin, nourish and protect against external irritants. Restores blood circulation in damaged tissues. It is applied internally and externally. The oil capsule is pierced and the contents are applied to the lips.

Advantages: effective tool, inexpensive, affordable.

Disadvantages: May cause allergic reactions.

The first cracks, roughness and sores on the lips can bring discomfort into everyday life.

In addition, they can be the cause of the disease.

Causes and treatment

If the lips are peeling and cracking, then there is a reason for that.

Causes of cracks:

  • prolonged wind chill:
  • exposure to dry air;
  • non-compliance with the rules of personal hygiene;
  • the habit of licking lips in the wind;
  • anemia;
  • insufficient amount of B vitamins;
  • allergic reaction;
  • problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
  • dermatological diseases;
  • bite problems.

When the lips crack, small cracks appear on the delicate skin with peeling skins. Sometimes this problem ends with bleeding wounds.

In this case, the best way out is to see a doctor, since infection with streptococcal and bacterial infections is possible.


Only a specialist can prescribe the correct diagnosis and find out the root cause of such discomfort. It is especially worth being vigilant in the formation of seizures, which can be of secondary origin. Then no "Kulibin" and folk methods will help. Only a doctor can save you.

The principles of treatment of cracks and wounds on the lips depend on the type and stage of the disease. With a mild form of the disease, herbal medicine and measures to strengthen the immune system will help.

If the presence of herpes infection or Zhiber's disease is confirmed, complex treatment will have to be completed, in which antibiotics will also take part.

Why lips crack and peel

If the lips are peeling and cracking, what should I do? Initially, you need to eliminate the causes.

To do this, avoid prolonged exposure to the wind and licking your lips:

  1. As a result of licking, saliva remaining on the skin of the lips can cause irritation. This is due to the content of acid in it, which has a negative effect on the epidermal lining of the lips.
  2. If the skin on the lips begins to crack and peel off, you need to try to find a universal method of treatment. The main one is the use of therapeutic balm and hygienic lipstick, saturated with vitamins and immunostimulants. Of the preparations on a natural basis, cosmetic products based on bee products have a positive effect. From medication - Panthenol, which has anti-inflammatory and healing effects, can help.
  3. Before going outside, the patient should give up acidic, salty foods that have a negative effect on the digestive tract.
  4. Sometimes a problem with the lips manifests itself in the form of seizures, which are easily eliminated with synthomycin ointment. By diversifying the treatment with a course of taking vitamins, the problem of cracked lips will eliminate itself.
  5. In the presence of a herpes infection, a qualified specialist is able to save from the disease.

What to do if the border of the lips is inflamed - the most frequently asked questions of the owners of beautiful lips.

Well, of course, immediately contact a dermatologist.

Perhaps the culprit is a bacterial infection that can only be cured with drugs:

  1. If the diagnosis shows beriberi, you will have to pay attention to the fortification of the body and saturation of its macro- and microelements.
  2. When allergies are the cause of chapped lips, it's a good idea to fill your daily walkie-talkie with greens and vegetables like spinach, parsley, nuts, and fish.
  3. If the peeling of the lips is accompanied by a change in the color of the lips, it is urgent to stop smoking and enjoy more fresh air. Most likely, your body began to falter and needs rest. Eight hours of sleep should be observed unquestioningly, and oral hygiene will only benefit.

What makes sponges dry

Sponges crack and hurt, bleeding wounds appear - appropriate measures must be taken.

The main causes of jaw cracking are:

  1. The damaging effects of UV rays. When the skin of the lips is burned in the sun, their flaking occurs, accompanied by unbearable itching, pain and swelling.
  2. Zaedy. This word is familiar to everyone. Painful cracks in the corners of the mouth bring not only discomfort while eating, but also in everyday life. In these places, the skin is literally torn to pieces. As a rule, the reason lies in the lack of vitamins.
  3. Herpes infection. Its appearance is accompanied by the appearance of itchy sensations, infrequently ending in blisters. The skin dries up and bursts. The cause of herpes is the presence of SARS.
  4. Cheilite. Inflammatory processes of the border of the lips, the cause of which is the use of low-quality cosmetic preparations. In addition to cosmetics, yeast-like fungi that make lips flaky and red can cause the disease. When diagnosing candidiasis, the surface of the lips peels off to wounds. Pain, burning and dryness are the main symptoms of the disease.
  5. Hives. The main symptom of hives is dryness and cracking of the delicate skin. Urticaria covers the entire surface around the mouth. Its appearance is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, alcohol abuse and smoking, prolonged stress and depression, and mental problems. Sometimes the causes of urticaria are some hidden diseases of the body.
  6. The impact of cold. The main cause of chapped lips. When weathering, the patient feels tightness of the skin, accompanied by bursting and cracks.

Constant problem of cracks

In addition to the reasons mentioned earlier, there are others that are of an internal nature. They are the signal of a serious illness.

Thus, the body defends itself and tries to convey to its owner that the immune system has malfunctioned and requires urgent action:

  • diseases of the gastric tract - gastritis and gastroduodenitis, requiring sparing nutrition and changing the daily routine;
  • dehydration of the body - indicates its exhaustion and problems with immunity;
  • kidney disease - cause dryness and cracks on the lips, only a competent therapist can help in this case;
  • diabetes - dry lips, mouth and constant thirst are the first symptoms of diabetes;
  • improper functioning of the thyroid gland - as a rule, its occurrence is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, stress and hormonal disruptions;
  • dermatological diseases - can spoil the appearance of the lips and bring its owner or owner to depression;
  • beriberi - a lack of vitamins of groups E and B, first of all, is reflected on the lips;
  • during pregnancy - the forces of the body are spent not on one person, but on at least two, a hormonal imbalance occurs, manifested in the appearance of flaky crusts and cracks on the lips.

Ignoring these reasons means not respecting your body and yourself.

The appearance of peeling, cracks and wounds on the skin of the lips can be not only a cosmetic defect, but also a signal of the onset of a serious disease! This is especially true for those men, women and children in whom dryness of the lips and oral cavity is permanent.

Useful video on the topic

Crack in the middle and what to do about it

Why do lips crack in the middle:

  • avitaminosis;
  • weathering;
  • excessive dryness;
  • period of pregnancy.

With beriberi, a lack of vitamins can provoke the appearance of both a small and a large, deep crack.

Usually such a crack begins to bleed and gives a feeling of soreness to its owner.

If timely treatment is not taken, it may become infected.


If the lips crack in the middle, this indicates a weakening of the immune system. A clear example of this is the period of pregnancy. In this case, only vitaminization of the body will help, and lubrication of the lips with nourishing creams and balms on a natural basis.

In the absence of a bacterial infection on the lips, folk remedies are effective methods of treating cracked lips in the middle.

Pathology on the edges of the lips

These cracks are called jams, and can disturb a person for a long time. Not paying attention to such a phenomenon can be considered frivolous, since the body gives a signal to pay attention to it.

The main reason for seizures is a lack of vitamins. This leads to dry lips and cracks.

In addition, there are a number of other reasons:

  1. Ignoring the rules of personal hygiene.

Failure to care for the oral cavity, improper brushing of teeth and the presence of undertreated teeth contribute to the occurrence of infection.

  1. Malocclusion.

The reason for the appearance of cracks in the corners of the mouth is the incorrect structure of the jaw, which protrudes above the lip and irritates it.

  1. Allergic reaction.

Incorrectly chosen soap or low-quality cosmetic preparations can provoke an allergic reaction and the appearance of seizures.

  1. Anemia.

Iron deficiency in the body can change the color of the lips towards white and contribute to the occurrence of seizures.

  1. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
  2. Violation of metabolic processes in the body.

If you suspect any of these reasons, you should contact a medical institution for help.

Only qualified specialists can help find the right solution to eliminate the cause of cracked and rough lips.

The appearance of seizures can be the cause of a precancerous condition and infection of the body. If the disease is accompanied by weakness and swelling under the eyes, start sounding the alarm. The body needs help!

We get rid of at home with the help of folk remedies

As folk methods for treating cracked lips are the following:

  1. Honey ointment. To prepare it, you need 2 tbsp. mix honey with st. l. visceral fat and lubricate painful areas of the lips three times a day.
  2. Oils. Treatment of cracks with olive, sea buckthorn, rosehip and peach oils nourishes the surface of the lips, heals wounds and relieves inflammation.
  3. Garlic juice. Garlic has bactericidal, healing and immunomodulatory properties. Lubrication of the corners of the mouth with garlic juice promotes their rapid healing.
  4. Plantain juice. Freshly squeezed plantain juice relieves inflammation on the lips and quickly heals wounds.
  5. Creative mask. Pre-shredded fatty cottage cheese, diluted with vegetable oil, is able to remove any inflammatory processes from the lips.

The main goal of treating cracked and rough lips at home is to moisturize them and maximize their nutrition with natural substances.

If you ignore folk methods, you can turn to effective medications, which can be chosen drugs Levomekol and Vishnevsky ointment.

Features of nutrition with this problem

Help in the fight against the problem of chapped lips can be observed following the rules of nutrition, which include the following recommendations:

  • refusal of salty and sour foods that can irritate the surface of the skin of the lips;
  • rejection of citrus fruits and figs, which are capable of provoking cracks under the influence of acid;
  • refusal to use alcohol and tobacco, which depress the immune system;
  • refusal of chewing gum and sweets stuffed with dyes and GMOs;
  • preference should be given to fruits and vegetables, nuts, olive oil, sour cream, red meat;
  • in the presence of cracks, it is necessary to eat in small portions and a small spoon, which will help not to open your mouth too much and create conditions for deepening the crack;
  • Saturate your daily diet with fiber-rich foods as much as possible.

Crack Prevention

To ensure the beauty of the face and give it grooming, it is necessary to take preventive measures to care for the skin of the lips and prevent the occurrence of various diseases.

Prevention of the skin of the lips provides for the following recommendations:

  1. Performing a massage.

An ordinary toothbrush can be used as a lip massage. Before starting the procedure, you need to lubricate the surface of the lips with a nourishing cream or fortified oil. With circular gentle movements for 2 minutes, the lips are massaged with a brush. Lip massage accelerates blood circulation in the lips, makes them appetizing and sexy.

  1. Refusal of low-quality bright and saturated tones of lipsticks.

As a rule, such cosmetics contain a lot of dyes that dry out the surface of the lips, and contribute to the appearance of microcracks on them.

  1. Application of nourishing and natural healing oils before applying lip color cosmetics.
  2. Daily use of cosmetic products with a moisturizing effect in the morning toilet.
  3. The use of aromatherapy, which has a positive effect not only on the epidermis of the lips, but also on the whole organism.
  4. Refusal of self-medication. Sometimes the cause of problems on the lips is not a lack of vitamins and hypothermia, but the presence of a herpes infection. In this case, the use of moisturizers will not save. You will have to undergo medical treatment.
  5. Minimizing the time spent above freezing and dry wind.
  6. Maintaining a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  7. Compliance with the rules of personal hygiene.

In conclusion, we can say that the problem of cracking and peeling of the lips worries not only adults, but also children with teenagers. Its occurrence can be provoked by both weather factors and some internal diseases of the body.

As a treatment for cracked and flaky lips, both medication and folk remedies can be used. It all depends on what diagnosis the attending physician makes.

Why lips crack - causes and treatment

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