What Causes Dry Skin Around the Mouth?

Dry skin around your mouth can be most uncomfortable and irritating. In addition, if it is cracked, flaking or scaly, it can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance. There are a number of reasons that this may occur, and treatments are available in each case.

Angular Chelitis

Angular cheilitis is dry, cracked skin at the corners of your mouth. The skin splits and sometimes bleeds when you open your mouth to talk or eat. It is caused by poorly fitting dentures, nutritional deficiencies or diabetes. If left untreated, a yeast infection can develop in your mouth. It is treated with topical anti-fungal ointment or steroids (see Resources).

Aging

Dry skin around your mouth could simply be the result of aging. Application of moisturizers should alleviate the problem.

Allergic Reactions

You could have an allergic reaction to fluoride. You can try using a non-fluoride toothpaste to see if it helps. If it does help, you should consult your dentist regarding the care of your teeth.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis can be caused by oily skin combined with a yeast infection. It typically appears around your lips. It can be treated with medicated lotion (see Resources).

Chapped Lips

Dry skin around your mouth can develop as a result of constantly licking your lips when they are chapped. The solution is lip balm and moisturizer.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• The Angular Cheilitis Foundation
• Causes of Cracked Mouth Corner
• Seborrheic Dermatitis