Which vitamin deficiency causes cracked lips at the corners?

Low riboflavin (B2), B12, folate or iron are common links. A doctor can confirm with blood tests before you take supplements.

Is coconut oil good for cracked corners of the mouth?

Yes, a thin layer keeps the skin soft and protected. If the cracks do not improve in a week or two, get them checked for infection.

Is angular cheilitis contagious?

It is usually not contagious, but if it is caused by an infection, avoid sharing lip balms, towels or cups.

Oral care5 min

Home remedies for cracked corners of mouth: ghee, coconut oil and B-vitamin foods

Sore, split corners of the lips sting when you eat or smile. These home remedies for cracked corners of mouth protect the skin with a thin layer of ghee or coconut oil, break the lip-licking habit and add foods rich in B vitamins and iron.

Why the corners of the mouth crack

Saliva collecting in the corners, frequent lip licking, cold dry weather, ill-fitting dentures and low levels of iron or B vitamins (especially B2, B12 and folate) are common causes. Sometimes a yeast or bacterial infection keeps the cracks from healing.

In Indian homes, a dab of ghee or malai on dry lips is a familiar remedy, valued in Ayurveda for its soothing, moistening quality.

Ingredients

A little pure ghee or virgin coconut oil
Foods rich in B vitamins and iron: curd, milk, eggs, green leafy vegetables, dals, peanuts, jaggery
Plenty of water

How to prepare

Keep a small clean container of ghee or coconut oil for lip use only.
Plan one iron- or B-vitamin-rich food at each meal.

How to use

Wash the corners with plain water, pat dry and apply a thin layer of ghee or coconut oil 3–4 times a day and at bedtime.
Avoid licking your lips; reapply the oil instead.
Continue for one to two weeks while eating a varied diet.

Helpful habits

Wipe drool at night by sleeping on your back or with a soft cloth on the pillow.
Use a lip balm with sunscreen outdoors.
Get dentures checked if they have become loose.

Precautions

If cracks last more than two weeks, spread, ooze or crust yellow, see a doctor, as an antifungal or antibiotic cream may be needed.
Repeated cracks with tiredness, pale skin or a sore red tongue can point to anaemia or vitamin deficiency; get blood tests.
Do not apply toothpaste, lime or alum on the cracks.

Frequently asked questions

Which vitamin deficiency causes cracked lips at the corners?: Low riboflavin (B2), B12, folate or iron are common links. A doctor can confirm with blood tests before you take supplements.
Is coconut oil good for cracked corners of the mouth?: Yes, a thin layer keeps the skin soft and protected. If the cracks do not improve in a week or two, get them checked for infection.
Is angular cheilitis contagious?: It is usually not contagious, but if it is caused by an infection, avoid sharing lip balms, towels or cups.