lips

small white dots have formed at both corners of my lips, in small clusters of no more than a few...the more i see it (since i've noticed it it has become difficult to forget about) the more nervous i get that i contracted an STD but ive never had unprotected sex...ive searched online for symptoms and causes but have come up with a list that leads no where.  There is no pain or discomfort, nothing besides the fact that there are there....im confused as to what this could be, nervous at the same time....help?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Without examination confirming a diagnosis is very tough but the various possibilities are perioral dermatitis(red papules or pustules appear around the lips), Fordyce spots(normal superficial sebaceous (oil-producing) glands seen on the moist tissue) , angular cheilitis(inflammatory lesion at the corners of the mouth) and contact dermatitis.

Drink plenty of water and take multivitamin(esp vit B)and iron supplements and do not apply lipstick or other cosmetic products for some days. Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in your home and apply shea butter or Vaseline on your lips and corners. Eat foods high in calcium, magnesium and flaxseed oil. If even after a week of compresses and emollients there is no relief then you can apply over-the-counter 1 percent hydrocortisone ointment on the rashes.If still the symptoms persist then it will be best to get it evaluated by a dermatologist.

Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep us posted if you have any additional queries.