Angular cheilitis and soreness inside the nose

The term angular cheilitis describes inflamed, cracked skin where the upper and lower lips meet. Crusting or splitting at a nostril is not angular cheilitis, even when both areas feel dry or sting. Nasal symptoms can follow repeated wiping, rubbing, dry air, contact with an irritating product, eczema, or a local infection. A clinician can distinguish these possibilities by examining the exact site and asking what preceded the change.

Avoid picking crusts, inserting skincare products into the nostril, or repeatedly cleaning the area with antiseptics. Wash the outer skin gently, pat it dry, and pause fragranced products that touch the affected area. A plain barrier product may protect external skin, but products intended for the lips may not be suitable inside the nose. Do not apply a steroid, antibiotic, or antifungal medicine there unless a clinician or pharmacist confirms the product and location are appropriate.

Arrange an assessment if the area persists, keeps returning, spreads, or develops increasing tenderness, swelling, pus, or yellow crusting. Seek prompt care for rapidly spreading redness, marked facial swelling, fever, severe pain, difficulty breathing, or swelling around an eye. Mention sores at the mouth corners as well as nasal symptoms, because simultaneous irritation may point to a shared trigger or separate conditions requiring different treatment.

Ask whether the nasal change looks irritant, inflammatory, or infectious; whether any current spray, cream, or cosmetic could be contributing; and exactly where a recommended medicine may be applied. Also ask how to protect the skin without trapping excess moisture and what change should trigger reassessment.