I get cracks in the corners of my mouth every winter that won’t heal despite frequent moisturizing. I’ve learned that this condition is called angular cheilitis.
Previously, I used an antifungal cream called Travocort, which cleared it up in three days, but the cracks returned after three weeks. I’m frustrated because I maintain good skin care and hygiene, washing my face daily, moisturizing, and brushing my teeth twice a day. I’ve even switched to an SLS-free toothpaste, which has helped reduce burning while brushing.
Is it okay to use antifungal cream each time the issue occurs? Are there other remedies that might help?
I experience angular cheilitis frequently due to food sensitivities. If it recurs soon after treatment, it might be caused by candida, a yeast overgrowth that requires different treatment. If typical remedies aren’t effective, consider discussing this possibility with your doctor.
Personally, I find that applying Aquaphor three times a day helps prevent angular cheilitis. During a particularly bad flare-up, Aquaphor wasn’t enough, so I switched to using Neosporin five times a day for a week. Apply Neosporin in the mornings before brushing your teeth and at night before bed. If the corners of your mouth feel tight before brushing, apply Neosporin then as well. For best results, use it three times before meals to prevent further cracking while eating.
Yes, the doctor identified it as candida yeast but didn’t provide guidance on what to do if it recurs. Aquaphor isn’t available where I live, so I’m considering using Bepanthen or a similar product. I’m unsure if keeping it moisturized improves or worsens the condition, can you clarify?
I’m not a doctor, so I can’t provide specific advice for recurrence, but for prevention, try reducing your gluten intake and avoiding foods high in yeast, like pretzels and beer. Also, avoid overeating and take smaller bites. Keeping the area moisturized helps prevent flare-ups for me, although it doesn’t directly improve or worsen them when they occur; it just seems to reduce the frequency and severity.
I also learned that angular cheilitis can be a sign of vitamin or mineral deficiencies, including anemia. While treating candida-related cheilitis can offer temporary relief, it might be a good idea to check your blood for deficiencies. It’s important to ensure you’re not lacking any essential vitamins or minerals.
I promised to share any cure I found with every forum I come across. I managed to heal my cheilitis in just 24 hours using:
Vegetable-based Tea Tree Therapy tea tree soap
Clindamycin
Aquaphor
Natural, fluoride-free, mint-free, and whitening-agent-free toothpaste
L-lysine (I took three times the usual dose for 24 hours)
I applied all of these at least three times a day after every meal, or more if needed. I used clindamycin first, followed by Aquaphor, and then applied clindamycin again on top.
This method worked better for me than any prescription medication I’ve tried.
Yes its okay, The best medicine to help angular cheilitis is an antifungal cream, such as nystatin, which can clear the infection and prevent future reoccurrences.
