Winter brings its fair share of challenges—shorter days, brisk winds, and the ever-dreaded flu season. Among these nuisances, many people also find themselves grappling with dry or chapped lips. While it’s easy to chalk this up to the cold weather, there’s a surprising reason why your favorite lip balm may not be doing the trick. According to experts, persistent chapped lips could signal a hidden health issue, including a potential fungal or bacterial infection.
The Hidden Culprit Behind Persistent Chapped Lips
Dry, cracked lips are often blamed on the harsh winter air, but according to Dr. Joyce Kahng, a prominent dentist based in California, this isn’t always the full story. Persistent sores, particularly in the corners of the mouth, could point to a condition called angular cheilitis.
Angular cheilitis occurs when bacteria or yeast infect tiny cracks in the corners of your lips. This condition isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can worsen without proper treatment, leaving you with painful, irritated skin that refuses to heal.
What Causes Angular Cheilitis?
Dr. Kahng highlights two common culprits behind this condition:
- Staph Bacteria: This type of bacteria can invade broken skin and lead to painful infections.
- Candida Yeast: A fungal organism that thrives in moist environments, Candida can cause significant irritation and inflammation.
Both factors are exacerbated by behaviors like licking your lips or failing to protect the delicate skin from harsh weather conditions.
