There is no hard and fast rule about how much and how often you can and should apply petroleum jelly to your cracked mouth. To start, though, apply a finger-sized dab and use as often as you would use any chapstick. [2] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source While allergies are possible but rare, petroleum jelly is generally safe to use regardless of your underlying cause or condition, making it a great option for anyone dealing with cracks in the corners of their mouth.
Coconut oil is generally safe to use as often as needed to help heal the cracks in the corners of your mouth. [4] X Research source If you have oily or acne-prone skin, try to limit the application of coconut oil to just the cracked skin. Coconut oil may clog pores and cause breakouts. [5] X Research source
Like petroleum jelly and coconut oil, shea butter helps form a barrier between saliva and your skin. Vitamin E can help prevent and soothe cracking. It can also help protect your skin from the sun, which can make the cracks in the corners of your mouth worse. Use a lip balm that has 15 SPF or higher to help protect your skin from UV damage.
While it can vary from one person to another, in general, the recommended daily intake of iron is 18 mg. [8] X Research source Foods that are rich in iron include shellfish, spinach, legumes, red meat, pumpkin seeds, quinoa, turkey, broccoli, and dark chocolate. [9] X Research source
There are 8 B vitamins, including B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, biotin, folic acid, and B-12. The recommended daily intake varies based on the vitamin and your individual needs. Therefore, it is best to vary your diet and incorporate foods that are rich in multiple B vitamins. [10] X Research source A few examples of foods that are rich in various B vitamins are salmon (B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, B-12), eggs (B-2, B-5, biotin, folic acid, and B-12), and nutritional yeast (B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, folic acid, and B-12). [11] X Research source
You can also take zinc supplements if you aren’t able to reach your daily recommended intake.
Look for yogurt that contains live active cultures, such as the probiotic lactobacillus acidophilus. [15] X Research source
Your doctor can diagnose any underlying symptoms that you may have and help you effectively treat the cracks in the corners of your mouth.
In most cases, your doctor will recommend an anti-fungal cream that contains ketoconazole, an active ingredient that is particularly helpful for oral fungal infections. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
When you apply a topical steroid cream, make sure that you follow your doctor’s instructions.
Antibiotics can cause some side effects, such as a rash, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, or yeast infection. If you get any of these side effects, contact your doctor. [21] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Excess saliva often occurs when dental pieces, such as dentures, loosen over time. To help avoid this, make sure that you get the fit of your dental piece checked at least once a year. [23] X Research source
