Will angular cheilitis heal on its own?

Jun 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I frequently suffer from angular cheilitis, but it doesn't significantly affect my daily life. Can angular cheilitis heal on its own?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
Whether angular cheilitis can resolve on its own depends on the severity of symptoms and the underlying cause. Generally, mild cases of angular cheilitis may heal spontaneously with proper care. This includes keeping the lips dry, avoiding contact with irritants, adjusting dietary habits to ensure adequate intake of nutrients such as proteins and vitamins, especially B vitamins and vitamin complexes, as well as maintaining good personal hygiene to prevent secondary infections. However, if symptoms of angular cheilitis are severe, such as swelling, erosion, pain, or cracking of the mouth corners, spontaneous healing is unlikely. In such cases, appropriate medication based on the type of angular cheilitis, such as antibiotic ointments, is usually required to relieve symptoms and promote healing. Additionally, patients should avoid bad habits such as lip licking or peeling the skin around the lips, which may worsen the condition. If you have any concerns, please consult a relevant healthcare professional.