Having a very hard time smiling, talking and eating because the corners of your mouth are cracked, inflamed and painful? It’s called angular cheilitis, a non-serious condition that is nevertheless quite annoying. There is no need to have it treated by a doctor as it tends to heal on its own, although it may take several days before that happens.
Initially, you may notice that your lips are dry and chapped. Time will come when the corners of your mouth will become red and cracked. Definitely, it can bring pain and discomfort, and sometimes it tends to be itchy, too. Just about anything that involves having the lips moved can hurt, from flashing a smile to giving someone a kiss.
According to medical experts, there are several different reasons why angular cheilitis strikes. There are instances wherein it’s due to the cold weather. Some people have it because of certain nutritional deficiencies. You may also find yourself facing such painful problem if you have a weakened immune system and your hygiene practices are poor.
When you are bugged by angular cheilitis, there’s no need to pout. That’s because so many home remedies are available for it, all of which can help ease the signs and symptoms as well as accelerate the healing process. So read on to get acquainted with some of the things that you may do if you have angular cheilitis.
Honey
Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, honey can help soothe the symptoms of as well as heal angular cheilitis. All you have to do is regularly apply a thin layer of honey on the affecter corners of the mouth. If you have manuka honey, expect to attain healing at a much faster rate because it’s revered for its unparalleled ability to kill microbes.
Coconut Oil
It’s no secret that coconut oil has amazing antimicrobial properties, and that is why regularly massaging it on angular cheilitis can help you bounce back from it in no time. Coconut oil will also address both pain and itchiness by keeping the corners of your mouth well-hydrated.
Olive Oil
Another type of healthy oil that you can rely on whenever angular cheilitis is wreaking havoc in your life is olive oil. Just like coconut oil, olive oil is capable of killing microbes and soothing the affected areas. It’s a good idea to warm olive oil a little in the microwave before applying — do check first that it’s not scalding hot!
Cucumber
Everyone counts on cucumber slices to get rid of their eye bags. You can also count on them if you’re suffering from angular cheilitis. Cucumber is rich in vitamin C that promotes healing, plus it has soothing properties. The best cucumber slices to use for angular cheilitis are those that are fresh from the fridge.
Aloe Vera Gel
We all know that aloe vera gel is an excellent remedy for a variety of skin-related issues, from acne to minor wounds. Well, it’s something that you may also use each time angular cheilitis is ruining your day. Massage aloe vera gel on those red and inflamed areas, and then wash off with water after 15 minutes.
Lemon Juice
While it will surely sting, applying lemon juice on the problem areas can help make angular cheilitis go away ASAP. Lemon juice has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, courtesy of its rich vitamin C content. You may also consume lemon juice to make your immune system strong.
Baking Soda
Last but not least, you may apply a special paste on your angular cheilitis that is out of baking soda. All you need to do is get half a teaspoon of baking soda and add a few drops of water to it until you come up with a paste. Apply on the corners of your mouth. After 5 minutes have passed, rinse off thoroughly with water.
