What should you know about impetigo angular cheilitis?

Angular cheilitis is inflammation and cracking at one or both corners of the mouth. Saliva, lip licking, dryness, irritation or an underlying skin condition can keep the area moist and sore. Impetigo is a contagious bacterial infection that may cause blisters, erosions and yellow-brown crusts. One condition can be present alongside the other, but a cracked corner is not by itself proof of impetigo.

A clinician may inspect the corners, nearby lips and surrounding skin to decide whether the main problem is irritation, infection or both. Avoid licking the area and do not peel crusts away.

Wash gently with water or a mild cleanser, pat dry and avoid fragranced lip products. Use a plain protective moisturiser around the corner if dryness is contributing, following advice on [Emollient Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/emollient-therapy/). Do not share lip balm, cups, towels or cosmetics. A clinician may prescribe an antimicrobial treatment if impetigo is present, or a different product when inflammation is the main issue.

Do not apply a steroid cream to a possibly infected sore without medical advice. [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) can be appropriate for some inflammatory conditions but are not a substitute for assessing infection.

Arrange an assessment if cracking keeps returning, crusting spreads beyond the mouth corner, eating becomes difficult, or the area becomes more painful. Seek prompt care for fever, rapidly increasing swelling, spreading redness, pus, or swelling near the eye. Recurrent angular cheilitis may need assessment for ongoing irritation or another contributing problem.

Is this mainly angular cheilitis, impetigo, or both? Which product should I use at the mouth corners, and for how long? What can I change if saliva or lip licking keeps reopening the cracks?