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Few things in life are inevitable: doing laundry, filing taxes, and, at some point, during the winter, experiencing chapped lips. Lip balm is a simple fix for any flaking and tightness caused by cooler, dry temperatures. It also can be used to soothe cracked cuticles and tame flyaways. However, there is one thing even the most beloved of lip balms can't do — heal cracked, dry mouth corners.

Cracked mouth corners are also known by their technical name, angular cheilitis. It causes dry, red, painful cracks on the side of the mouth, which can make eating and talking unbearable. Unlike chapped lips, dutifully reapplying Vaseline or Chapstick isn't going to provide much relief — or ultimately heal the cracks. 

To break down everything about angular cheilitis, including how to treat the condition and even prevent it in the first place, we sought out dermatologist Dr. Tracy Evans.

Keep scrolling for our expert-approved guide to how to heal cracked lip corners fast.

The Causes of Angular Cheilitis

While the cracks on the sides of your mouth might look like the dry, flaky patches you get on your lips during the winter, angular cheilitis is actually inflammation caused by the collection of saliva around the mouth, which can lead to an overgrowth of yeast. That's why lip balms won't completely make it go away (more on that later).

According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, moistening the area (e.g. licking it or applying a balm) can make the problem even worse. 

"The excess moisture may lead to secondary infection with microorganisms, such as Candida yeast or Staphylococcus bacteria," the organization states.

"People who are sensitive to yeast or fungal illnesses may have more issues, such as patients who are immunosuppressed," Dr. Evans said of those prone to angular cheilitis. "Wearing braces or a month guard can make you drool at night, and then these mouth cracks can become an issue."

Treatments for Angular Cheilitis

If you're hoping that your dry, cracked lip corners will go away on their own, think again. Angular cheilitis often gets worse and more painful if left to its own devices. Fortunately, however, once treatment begins, it can take about two to four weeks to resolve, noted Dr. Evans.

To treat dry, cracked mouth corners, Dr. Evans recommended that you see a dermatologist who can prescribe medication. 

"Nystatin ointment (an anti-yeast medication) and a mild steroid such as hydrocortisone 2.5 percent [can] be used on the affected area three times per day, but especially before bed," she said.

If going to a dermatologist isn't an option, over-the-counter Lotrimin (yep, the same anti-fungal cream used for jock itch and ringworm) can help too

How to Prevent Angular Cheilitis

The similarities between chapped lips and angular cheilitis lie in how to prevent both conditions. Applying an occlusive barrier to the sides of the mouth before bed can prevent future flare-ups of angular cheilitis. Dr. Evans recommended Aquaphor ($13) or CeraVe ($25).

Lip filler can also help keep moisture out.

"Interestingly, a little bit of Juvéderm Ultra applied in the corners of the mouth (lateral commissures) keeps the corners of the mouth turned up and can help," Dr. Evans told us. "Filler will also help with a more youthful appearance of your lips."

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is angular cheilitis a vitamin deficiency?

  Vitamin deficiency, especially of B vitamins, may cause angular cheilitis. Incorporating vitamin B-rich foods (e.g. salmon, eggs, nutritional yeast, etc.) into your diet can help to maintain healthy skin, including your lips.

• Is angular cheilitis a virus?

  No, angular cheilitis is not a virus. It is a skin condition often caused by a fungal infection, specifically, a yeast infection.

• Can you kiss with angular cheilitis?

  Yes, you can kiss with angular cheilitis since it is not contagious.

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