Understanding Lip Zits
Lip zits, also known medically as perioral dermatitis, can be an annoying and sometimes painful issue. These small red or white bumps around the mouth often appear suddenly and seemingly have no cause. While frustrating, there are some simple at-home things you can try to get rid of them.
What Causes Lip Zits?
Experts aren't entirely sure what causes lip zits, but they have some theories. Possible causes include:
- Using too many skin care products around your mouth like lip balms, scrubs, and masks
- An allergic reaction or sensitivity to a skin care product, toothpaste, or lip product
- Drooling or excessive saliva while sleeping
- Stress
- Hormonal changes
- A bacterial, viral, or fungal infection
Are Lip Zits Contagious?
No, lip zits themselves are not contagious. You cannot spread them through physical contact. However, if they are caused by a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection, it is possible for someone else to contract the underlying infection through contact or shared items like cups, lip balm, or towels.
At-Home Treatments for Lip Zits
Before resorting to medications or dermatological procedures, try using at-home remedies to get rid of pesky lip zits:
Stop Using Products Around Your Mouth
If your lip zits seemed to appear suddenly after using a new skin care or lip care product, stop using it. Allow your skin time to heal and avoid applying anything, even soothing creams or balms, for a few days. Then slowly reintroduce your normal products one at a time while watching closely for any reactions.
Gentle Face Washing
Carefully wash your face twice a day using a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing too vigorously around your mouth. Gently pat dry afterwards. Keeping the skin around your mouth clean can prevent bacteria or irritants building up and clogging pores.
Warm Compresses
Applying something warm to the affected area can help soothe irritation and bring zits to a head. Hold a clean, warm washcloth against any lip zits for about 10-15 minutes twice a day until they go away.
Topical Creams
There are a few over-the-counter topical creams that can reduce redness and swelling around lip zits:
- Hydrocortisone cream - Apply a small dab directly on zits to decrease inflammation.
- Benzoyl peroxide - Kills acne-causing bacteria.
- Calamine lotion - Soothes itching and pain.
Oral Medications
For moderate or severe cases of lip zits that don't respond to home remedies, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic like doxycycline, minocycline, or erythromycin. Take as directed until the zits have cleared up.
When to See a Dermatologist
Most minor cases of lip zits will clear up on their own with proper at-home care. However, you should make an appointment with your dermatologist if:
- Your lip zits last longer than 2-3 weeks
- They continue getting worse or more painful
- They bleed, ooze, or crust over
- Home treatments do not improve them
A dermatologist has specialized training and access to prescription-strength medications that can clear up even severe or stubborn lip zits.
In-Office Treatments
If topical creams, oral antibiotics, and other at-home care methods have not worked, a dermatologist may try the following treatments:
- Corticosteroid injections - Injections directly into larger zits can quickly reduce swelling and irritation. Effects last around 3-6 months.
- Laser or light therapy - Using focused light beams to destroy bacteria and unclog sebaceous glands under the skin.
- Chemical peels - Applying a chemical solution to remove damaged outer layers of skin allowing new, clear skin to appear.
Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Lip Zits
Making certain lifestyle adjustments can keep recurring lip zits at bay once you have them under control. Try to:
- Use oil-free, non-comedogenic cosmetics
- Wash your face after meals
- Change your pillowcase frequently
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
- Take steps to reduce stress levels like yoga, meditation, or journaling
- Avoid picking, popping or touching lip zits
Dietary Changes
Certain dietary factors may make some people more prone to lip zits. Avoiding foods that seem to trigger breakouts may help, like:
- Dairy products
- Refined carbs
- Fried foods
- Spicy ingredients
Instead, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Taking probiotic supplements can also improve gut health and skin wellness.
When to Seek Medical Care
In most cases, lip zits will clear up within a few weeks with consistent proper care. However, seek prompt medical treatment if you experience:
- Extreme redness, swelling or pain
- Pus or blood oozing from zits
- Fever, difficulty swallowing or swollen lymph nodes
- Zits spreading to your gums, chin, cheeks or nose
These could indicate a skin infection or more serious underlying condition that requires further treatment right away.
See Your Doctor
Only a doctor can diagnose the exact cause of stubborn or severe lip zits. Based on an exam, lab tests and your medical history, they can rule out rare issues like:
- Oral lichen planus
- Candidiasis
- Lupus
- Granulomatous diseases
Prompt diagnosis leads to earlier targeted treatment to stop extensive scarring.
Prevent Lip Zits from Recurring
It's frustrating to finally get rid of lip zits only to have them return weeks or months later. Here is some advice to help prevent recurrent flare ups:
- Have any dental work or tooth extractions done as soon as your dermatologist says it is safe to do so
- Take antibiotics or other medications exactly as prescribed
- Attend any recommended follow-up appointments with your doctor
- Carefully avoid identified lip zit triggers like certain skin products or foods
Maintain a Consistent Skin Care Routine
Sticking to a regular daily skin care regimen tailored to your needs is key. This may involve continuing to use prescription topical medications or taking oral antibiotics for an extended period as your physician directs.
FAQs
What's the best home remedy for a painful lip zit?
The best and fastest home remedy for a painful lip zit is to hold a warm, clean washcloth against it for 10-15 minutes, twice a day. The heat helps bring the zit to a head and soothe swelling.
Do lip zits go away on their own?
Minor cases of lip zits may go away on their own within 2-3 weeks. But it's best to use home treatments to speed healing. See a dermatologist if they persist longer or keep recurring.
Can I pop my lip zits?
No, you should never try to pop, squeeze or pick at lip zits. This can lead to infection, swelling, scarring and further breakouts. Allow zits to heal on their own or see a dermatologist for treatment options.
What foods cause lip zits?
Dairy products, refined carbs, fried foods and spicy ingredients seem to trigger lip zits in some people. Avoiding these and eating more fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins may prevent breakouts.
How can I prevent lip zits from coming back?
To prevent recurring lip zits, have any necessary dental work done, take all medications as prescribed, avoid known triggers, and maintain a consistent daily skin care routine recommended by your dermatologist.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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