What causes redness around the mouth, and what should be done about it?

Redness around the mouth may be caused by physiological factors such as local irritation, dry skin, endocrine disorders, allergic dermatitis, angular cheilitis, etc. It can usually be managed through lifestyle improvements, moisturizing care, and medication. If discomfort persists or symptoms worsen, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Local Irritation

Prolonged friction, pressure, or exposure to substances like saliva can damage the skin barrier around the mouth, leading to redness. It is advised to improve daily habits, avoid frequently licking the area around the lips, minimize local irritation, and keep the skin clean and dry.

2. Dry Skin

Dry climate or insufficient water intake may cause dehydration of the skin around the mouth, resulting in dryness and redness. It is recommended to enhance moisturizing care by using gentle moisturizers or lip balms, while increasing fluid intake to maintain skin hydration.

3. Endocrine Disorders

Hormonal imbalances, such as abnormal sex hormone levels, may lead to pigmentation or redness around the mouth. Lifestyle adjustments are recommended, and if necessary, medications such as propylthiouracil tablets, methimazole tablets, or propranolol hydrochloride tablets may be used under medical supervision.

4. Allergic Dermatitis

This typically occurs after contact with allergens. Clinical features include sudden onset, symmetrical rashes predominantly presenting as erythema, papules, or maculopapules, which are relatively uniform and accompanied by varying degrees of itching. Identifying and avoiding the allergen is essential. Under medical guidance, oral antihistamines such as levocetirizine hydrochloride tablets or chlorpheniramine maleate tablets may be taken, and topical treatments such as desonide cream or triamcinolone acetonide-nystatin cream may be applied.

5. Angular Cheilitis

Usually caused by bacterial infection, it commonly presents with redness, blisters, and fissures at the corners of the mouth, along with erosion, crusting, and scaling. Patients may experience bleeding when opening the mouth, affecting eating and speaking. It is recommended to wear a mask outdoors to protect the mouth area from irritants. Topical treatments generally include tetracycline hydrochloride ointment, triamcinolone acetonide-econazole cream, or miconazole nitrate cream.

In daily life, it is advisable to maintain healthy habits, follow a regular sleep schedule, avoid staying up late, quit smoking and alcohol, and refrain from consuming raw, cold, overly hot, or greasy foods. A balanced diet helps boost immunity, and maintaining a positive mood is beneficial. Seek timely medical attention if symptoms become severe.