Unhealing scab between upper and lower lip

[vanessm]

I recently had a pimple on the side of my lip between my upper and lower lips.  It took several months to heal as it kept breaking open and bleeding.  I am having difficulty with it fully healing - at the moment it is somewhat hard raised, dry skin on the corner of my mouth.  Please help!!! What can I use on it to speed up the healing?? Ive been using vitamin e but its not improving. It has taken 2-3 months to close. Any advice would be appreciated.... anyone??

[vanessm]

thank you so much. i will try this.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
From the symptoms the possibilities of angular cheilitis and cold sores need to be ruled out. Dry out the lesions completely by patting and air drying after washing with a mild soap and use petroleum jelly to lock out moisture. It is vital that the affected areas be clean and completely dry before application of the jelly. You can also apply small amounts of athlete’s foot cream which is available over the counter. If the symptoms persist then please consult a dermatologist as oral antimicrobials may be needed and the possibility of cold sores needs to be ruled out.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.