chapped lips or cold sores

For the last month or so I've had horribly dry lips and lather on the chap stick.  At times they have burned, especially if I've eaten anything spicy.  For the last week I've had cracks at the corners of my mouth.  It doesn't seem to be improving.  I've tried to use different types of chap sticks thinking this could be the cause.  The only kind that makes it feel better are the medicated ones.  Any suggestions.  

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi

This may be a case of angular cheilitis or a fungal infection. Dry lips may be caused by smoking, dehydration, direct or prolonged sun exposure, certain food like hot beverages and spicy food, as well as strong tooth pastes and cosmetics. Vitamin B12 deficiency and iron deficiencies may also lead to angular cheilitis or similar conditions. Immunosuppressed states leading to a decrease immune response may lead to similar conditions. Thus, eating well and getting enough rest are important.

Wash the face with a mild cleanser. Avoid spicy food, harsh cosmetics and toothpastes with high fluoride content. Miconazole gel may be applied on the corners of the mouth. This should improve the condition if a fungal component is present.