Eczema on Lips causes: Pictures, Treatment

aloe vera gel

What causes eczema on lips? Is eczema a contagious medical condition? Below are insights as captured by different authorities in the field of dermatology on eczema.

Eczema on lips is also known as atopic dermatitis; it is a chronic skin condition that normally develops during childhood. According to America Academy of dermatology 30% of the world population suffers from some form of eczema. The cause of eczema is not known, but the disorder tends to run in families and is more common in those with allergies and asthma.
Lip eczema which is a kind of eczema that occurs on or near the lips, leads to redness, cracking, inflammation and severe itching. While there is no 99% proven cure of eczema, the condition is usually manageable with over the counter medications and avoidance of allergens and other triggers.

Symptoms of Eczema on lips

When your lips become chapped and scaly, the following signs and symptoms should help you to establish whether you are dealing with eczema or a different medical condition. Eczema on lips is usually accompanied by;

  • Dryness, cracking and scaling- Lip dryness is one of the common lip eczema symptoms you need not to ignore. Your lips are likely to appear dried out especially when the eczema is chronic. At a times, skinny sections of your lips may become affected and begin cracking and scaling.
  • Itchiness-it is one of the most disturbing symptoms associated with skin condition. Aside from experiencing the itchy feeling, your skin could also start peeling off in case your skin is dry.
  • Redness on your lips-eczema on your lips is normally characterized by redness on your lips and this is the best way eczema could easily be identified. This symptom is easily and highly noticeable among persons who have a fair complexion or skin, though it is observable on any person with eczema.
  • Thickened lip skin-whenever you have chronic inflammation, your skin protects itself by thickening. it is a symptom that is easily felt or observable especially when you use your tongue to feel it.

However, please note that these are mere symptoms. There are other diseases and conditions which may produce similar symptoms to those of lip eczema, example is cold sore. Cold sore is signaled by experiencing a burn and itchy feeling when your infection is just starting out. It is advisable to consult your dermatologist doctor for appropriate verdict.
Causes of Eczema on Lips
The following are possible causes of eczema as per the America institute of Dermatological Studies

  1. Endogenous or internal causes.

Atopic dermatitis is one of the common types of eczema affecting sensitive areas of the skin. It is normally characterized by itching and long-lasting rash. The exact cause is unknown. However, dermatologist thinks its occurrence is due to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors.

  1. Exogenous or external triggers

There are several environmental factors associated with occurrence of eczema. In most cases external factors can trigger this problem. These are as follows.

  • Contact dermatitis as an external factor and a trigger of this condition, contact dermatitis is attributed to the contact with the skin by an irritating or allergic substance. The common irritants or allergic substances include: Saliva, harmful substances in lip care products such as balm, and food additives

On the other hand, allergic contact dermatitis is an immune initiated response to specific substances such as: lipstick, pollen, sunscreen, toothpaste, food, dental treatments, medication for acne, and nail polish or vanish.

  • Allergic contact cheilitis. Allergic contact cheilitis or eczematous affects mainly the border areas or vermillion margin on the lips. Dermatologists identify it as a kind of hypersensitivity reaction with due to certain allergen sources.

Common allergen sources include lip care products and metal casing, nickel toothpaste, certain foods, medications, nail varnish denture cleaner and latex.

Upper Lip Eczema Meaning

Saliva is one of the most common rash causes in infants and children around the lips and on chest. If you look at any pictures showing upper lip eczema or eczema around lips, you will notice that the problem will have been caused by constant lip licking.

A rash is defined as any change in the color look or texture of your skin. When you have upper lip eczema you are likely to notice swelling, redness, irritation and you may also experience some pain. Upper lip eczema can affect any person regardless of race, age or gender, even though it is likely to be less visible in people who have very dark skin.
On the other hand, lower lip eczema according to the statistics of CDC, it affects between 9% to 20% of all infants, and around 3% of the adult population. In infants, the condition can cause crusting and oozing and parents, therefore, need to be on the lookout for the symptoms mentioned earlier.

How to Get Rid of Eczema on Lips-Home remedies

Even though there are a number of commercial products that can provide the much needed relief, it is also important to try home remedies. According to doctors on WebMD and Mayo clinic, the following are I2 home remedies that can be applied to get rid of eczema:

  1. Sugar

Sugar is recommended as it assists in exfoliating all dead skin cells, paving the way for new cells to regenerate.
To use sugar:

  • Combine a single tablespoon of honey with two tablespoon of sugar and apply this paste on your scarily lips and allow it five minutes to sit here undisturbed.
  • You should then use your fingers to rub the mixture all over your dead lips gently. By doing so, you will be loosening all the dead skin cells, making sure that they will be easy to remove.
  • Use warm water to wash off the sugar scrub.
  1. Rose petals

When your lips become cracked, you can try rose petals. It is a natural treatment which will assist your lips to remain moisturized throughout the day, while also enhancing their natural beauty.
To use Rose petals:

  • Pick a handful of rose petals and use cold water to wash them thoroughly. Once clean, soak them in milk for between two and three hours. If you have a problem or are allergic to dairy products, soak them in glycerin instead of milk.
  • Take the petals soaked earlier and mash gently to obtain a paste.
  • Take this paste and apply it at least three times each day. You will also have to do this before going to bed in the evening.
  1. Coconut oil

This is a natural treatment which can assist in treating cracked lips that have been caused by dry weather, eczema on lips or by a cold sore. The remedy is simple to use as all that is required of you is to apply pure coconut oil on your upper and lower lip a few times each day in a bid to ensure that they remain moist. Olive oil is a great alternative to coconut oil.

  1. Honey

Honey is a great moisturizer and also contains antibacterial and healing properties, which are needed when a person has eczema on lips.
How to use honey;

  • Obtain pure organic honey and then apply it to your lips throughout the course of the day. You have to make sure that you apply it more than once or twice.
  • Alternatively, you could prepare a paste using glycerin and honey. Apply this paste around lips each night before going to sleep. In the morning, you will get to enjoy lips that are much softer and aesthetically appealing.
  1. Castor oil

This is yet another effective home remedy that can be used in restoring your lips natural beauty.
How to use castor oil:

  • Smear a few droplets of castor oil to the affected lip a few times a day.
  • Alternatively, prepare a soothing treatment for your lips using a single teaspoon of glycerin, one tablespoon of castor oil, and combine them with three drops of fresh lime juice. Make sure they are appropriately combined before you can apply them on cracked lips. When you wake up the following day, use lukewarm water and a cotton ball to wash off the solution.
  • Application should be repeated each day until your lips become fully healed.
  1. Milk Cream

Milk Cream has a very high fat content, which makes it a very good moisturizer for your lips.
How to use milk cream:

  • Obtain fresh cream and slowly apply it on your affected upper lip. You need to leave it there for at least ten minutes, before using warm water and a cotton ball to clean off the milk cream.
  • When dealing with eczema on lips, you must make sure that you repeat application each day to hasten the healing process.
  1. Aloe Vera gel

Aloe Vera gel has well-known medicinal qualities which can be relied upon to treat a number of different skin conditions. You can extract the gel from a fresh aloe leaf, which you will then need to apply each day on your lips to get rid of the symptoms. The gel assists in healing and relieving any pain or discomfort that you could be experiencing. Even though the gel has a very unpleasant taste, its qualities are amazing and effective.

  1. Petroleum jelly

The jelly is very efficient in treating chapped lips and gets rid of all symptoms related to lip eczema. You will need to:

  • Apply a small amount of the jelly over the affected lips a few times each day to make sure that they will remain properly before you can go to bed, reapply the jelly to keep the nourished throughout the night.
  • Alternatively, you can begin by applying a small amount of honey on lips. Allow it a few seconds for it to become dry, before applying the jelly. You had better pause for couple of minutes before using a cotton ball that has been dipped in hot water. It is best to ensure that you repeat the remedy at least two times a day.
  1. Cucumber

For it to be effective, you need to make sure that you apply it as often as you can.

  • Cut a cucumber into tiny slices.
  • Grab a single slice and rub it across the chapped lips very gently. This will allow its juices to find their way into skin.
  • Allow the cucumber juice to sit on your lips for between fifteen and twenty minutes before using warm water to wash the juices off.
  • For faster healing, you will need to apply it as many times as possible.
  1. Flax seeds

Flax seeds have excellent omega 3 fatty acid. Fatty acids are effective means of dealing with nutrition and will fight and prevent exacerbation. Keep having 3-5 teaspoons of roasted seeds on a daily basis.

  1. Essential oils

These include carrot seed oil, lavender oil and chamomile oil. These oils offer a super protection against dryness and can be used for lip therapy. In addition, most essential oils have healing and soothing properties.
Apply this frequently especially when they begin to irritate.

  1. Shea Butter

Shea butter an effective way to treat this problem accompanied with lip dryness. It is one of the moisturizing natural products you should have at home.
Simply massage regularly especially before you sleep. You probably have to leave it to stay overnight but remember to wash with distilled water when you wake up.

Eczema on Lips Treatment

Treatment of eczema on lips in based on causative agent. However, there is always a chance that the correct cure may not be available. At a time you need to identify the factors that triggered the eczema for the curative solutions to be known, which will assist you to get rid of this problem. Once they have been noted down they will need to be eliminated in a systematic manner. America Academy of dermatology recommends the following treatments:

  1. Topical corticosteroids- Topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone creams are the common treatment forms for eczema; it is used by applying prescription corticosteroids to deal with redness or inflammation due to itching. Over the counter corticosteroids are powerfully effective when it comes to dealing with atopic cheilitis.
  2. Eczema lip balm- There are number of lip balms brands such as Burt’s Bees Lip Balm, Sooth it balm, and many others that have been manufactured to assist people dealing with eczema to relieve their symptoms. The balm assists to relieve itching and inflammation which are very likely to be on your lips and mouth.
  3. Immunosuppressant- immunosuppressant are meant or designed to counter the harmful side effects which could arise if your immune system responded to an allergic substance
  4. Stay away from the triggers-Learn to be keen with the products you love most. For instance, while buying or acquiring a new pack of facial, hair or lip product, ensure that they are free from chemicals like sodium laurel sulfate or parabens.

Other triggers to avoid or things to do include:

  • Avoid prolonged stay in the sun.
  • Find a therapeutic remedy for licking.
  • Change your mouthwash or toothpaste after consultation from a dentist.
  • Avoid strong soap solutions during facial cleansing and opt for mild, organic natural products.
  1. Antibiotic ointment-antibiotics are very efficient when it comes to preventing against disease causing microorganisms. If left to accumulate around your mouth they could lead to emergency of an infection, which may end up making the eczema reach worse levels.

Broken, inflamed eczema is prone to bacterial infections. This risk is especially high in younger children who are constantly touching their mouth chewing on objects. An over the counter ointment can help reduce the risk of bacterial infection when applied frequently to broken skin on the lips. According to theThe Nemours foundation, signs of serious skin infection such as increased warmth or redness, blisters, pus-filled bumps or fever, require medical attention to prevent serious complications.

  1. Moisturizers- Some types of eczema can dry out the lip skin and mouth. Selection and use of moisturizer should be more cautious. Choose a moisturizer with protective quality such as those with deep oil to prevent cracks. In most cases, if reliance on moisturizer does not improve the dryness on lips then you should check with your GP for another option or evaluate the cause. The America academy of family Physicians recommends using the moisturizer  within three minutes of getting out of bath and avoiding moisturizer that contain fragrance or other unnecessary ingredients. Plain petroleum jelly is easy to apply to the lips throughout the day and is resistant to lip licking.
  1. Oatmeal bath products- Oatmeal bath products can provide relief from extreme itching associated with eczema. The mayo clinic recommends using finely ground oatmeal designed for use in the bathtub. These bath products are available at most pharmacies and grocery stores. According to National Eczema society, you can also make your own oatmeal bath by grinding 2 to 3 cups of oat into powder and then mixing it with a tub full of warm water.
  2. Antihistamine Medication eczema is extremely itchy and scratching often makes the itch more severe. Moreover, scratching can damage the skin and make it more vulnerable to bacterial infections. Over the counter antihistamine can help relieve itching and improve sleep, especially in children. The America Academy of Dermatology recommends using an oral antihistamine at night to control itching, relieve restlessness and prevent scratching.
  3. Soap brands– many soaps and facial cleansers make lip eczema worse. Use plain water to clean the lip area, when possible and use a soap substitute when cleaning mouth areas that requires deeper cleaning. Regular soaps can increase dryness and inflammation. According to the National eczema society emollient soap substitutes are just as effective at cleaning the skin as soap, but they do not cause same degree of drying as traditional soaps.

Tingling Lips Causes: Numb, in one Spot, and Tongue, no Cold Sore, How to Stop

A lip that tingles is something that has probably happened to all of us from time to time, but never given it much thought. Unfortunately, in some cases, tingling lips may be a warning sign of something that shouldn’t be ignored. Here in our discussion, we will take a look at some of the possible causes of this condition including numb lips, the symptoms that may go with these issues, and a number of natural treatments for tingling lips.

What Are Tingling Lips?

Also known as numb lips, is a problem that is fairly easily recognized. Your lips feel similar to when your feet or hands fall “asleep” or “pins and needles.” It is therefore a tingling sensation around the lips and a type of numbness.
The numbness or tingling may begin a little in the affected area and there after spread to the entire lips, depending on what the causes of the tingling is. Unfortunately, this is an issue that you may want to take a deeper look at.

Tingling Lips

Tingling of the lips makes someone feel like “pins and needles” on the lips as many may describe. It is a common problem caused due to nerve damage when a person is exposed to extreme temperature. There are several causes for getting this condition ranging from allergic food products to cosmetic factors. Tingling of lips may vary in duration with respect to its causative factor.
For some cases it may be for few seconds and for others it can extend for hours. There may or may not be numbness and pain when tingling of lips occur. For some people, it may affect their consciousness or may cause intense headache. If there is repeated tingling of lips, accompanied with numbness you need to seek immediate medical care.
Symptoms
Some of the common symptoms with tingling of lips are burning feeling on lipsdryness, numbness (for few seconds), chapped lips, pain (mild to moderate), warmth and redness over the lips, and inflammation of lips. For some people it may cause tingling on other parts of the body.
It can be a symptom of stroke or any complicated nervous disorder if tingling of lips is seen with numbness on one side of your body. Lips that tingle can be a warning signal if it influences your conscious level or alertness. There may be slurring of speech or sudden inability to speak when nervous system gets affected.
For some people there may be inability to move body parts on one side indicating partial paralysis. Others vision may get affected causing blurred vision and there can be worst headache which they have never had before. All these are serious symptoms wanting prompt medical care and hospitalization.
Other Symptoms Can Occur with Tingling Lips
Now that we have covered the initial symptoms of this problem and some of the things that might cause it to occur, you should be aware that there are other symptoms that may become part of the lips that tingle package.
Damaged lips
One of the symptoms and side effects of twitching lips or numbs lips is damaged lips in various forms. Chapped lips, dried out lips, or redness can all be part of having tingling or numb lips.
Painful moments
Sometimes, numb lips will get these bursts of pain and discomfort. These are often accompanied by one or more of the damaged lip symptoms, along with tingling or numb lips.
Sores
Have it in your mind that, sores are also something that comes with lips that tingle. They may be part of an allergy or oral herpes but when they occur, they may break up the numbness with a point of pain.

Why do my Lips feel Numb?

Lip tingling is abnormal feeling, and lip numbness is decreased or absent feeling in the lip. Both sensations, medically called paresthesia, arise from conditions affecting sensory nerves in the lips, but usually not from neurological diseases. Skin diseases also rarely cause tingling or numbness but rather itch, burning or pain in the lips.
There are several causes for lips numbness. Allergic foods can cause tingling in some people. It can be due to chemical burn or change in cosmetics. All conditions that cause lip tingling like chapped lips may be the reason for lips numbness sensation.
When a person is exposed to extreme weather conditions of heat or cold temperature, there can be tingling of lips. You may also get this problem due to the infection caused by herpes simplex virus. A simple cold sore can cause your lips to feel numb. Injury caused to lips may also affect the tissue covering of lips.

Tingling Lips Causes

This condition may develop as a sort of symptom before the allergies, imbalances in the blood chemistry, as well as various problems that may occur neurologically. It becomes extremely vital to visit a physician, when symptoms such as numbness, heat, and tingling as well as other sensations which cause irritation in the lips and thus examination by a doctor becomes extremely important.

Causes the Tingling Lips

Tingling of lips can have a number of causes behind them. Some of them are temporary issues that can be easily solved or will just go away on their own. Other causes have more serious implications that need to be looked at with a doctor. Here are the causes of lip tingling—both a mild and serious.
Allergies

If you have tingling or numb lips, they might be caused by something as simple as allergies. It could be an allergic reaction to a food product or any other allergen. The lips tingling could be caused by an allergic reaction to something that does not come in contact with your lips at all.
Chemical allergies like allergic reaction to cosmetics, soap, medicines or other substances can also result in tingling of lips.
Mineral deficiency
The tingling or numb lips may be the result of a mineral deficiency. A lack of potassium or sodium, for example, may be the cause of tingling of lips. A lack of phosphate can also be a mineral-deficient cause of numb lips.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is when your blood sugar levels drop below a normal level. This can be due to things like diabetes, kidney failure, and infections. One of the symptoms of hypoglycemia can occasionally be tingling or numb lips.
Oral herpes
This is a condition which can cause what are commonly referred to as cold sores, can also cause numbness of the lips or lip tingling.
Raynaud’s phenomenon or disease
Raynaud’s phenomenon and Raynaud’s disease is when the blood vessels that are close to the surface of the skin become contracted due to low temperatures. When this occurs, it can cause your lips to go tingly, as well as other appendages. Raynaud’s phenomenon is when the cause is known like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), systemic sclerosis, or vasculitis. When the cause is not known, it is Raynaud’s disease.
Infections
Serious infections like Hansen’s disease (also known as leprosy) and shingles can cause tingling lips. In last years, leprosy infection caused by Mycobacterium leprae, was reported only from Brazil, Myanmar and some African countries. Several years after infection, neurological symptoms may appear in the lips, other parts of the face (eyes, eyelids) or distal parts of the limbs. Numbness and reduced sensitivity to hot and cold are typical symptoms.
Multiple sclerosis
This is a disease that can cause issues with the nervous system being able to communicate with its various parts. MS can cause tingling of lips. With these causes come a few other symptoms you may not have considered that go along with tingling or numb lips. These secondary symptoms you may want to pay attention to.
Sea food Poisoning
Ciguatera Fish Poisoning: Big tropical fish, like tuna or mackerel, can cause tingling in the lips or other parts of the body few minutes or several hours after ingestion. Reversal of hot and cold sensations is also characteristic. Symptoms, lasting from hours to months, are caused by ciguatera toxin, produced by coral algae, accumulating in tropical fish and ingested by a human. Ciguatera poisoning is common in Central America, Caribbean, Australia and South Asia.
Scombroid Poisoning: In fish, not properly stored after being caught, histamine, the same substance as released in allergies, may build up and cause food allergy-like symptoms.

Tingling Lips Anxiety

If you ever get numb or tingly feelings in your body, and if you’re also an anxious person, the two are almost certainly connected. Numbness and tingling of the lips are very common physical symptoms of anxiety. They might not sound like severe symptoms to someone who has never experienced them, but they can be uncomfortable at best and terrifying at worst.
The best place to start is why anxiety causes numbness and tingling in the first place. Why does anxiety cause numbness and tingling of lips? There are 2 ways that anxiety causes numbness and tingling:

  • incorrect breathing
  • misfiring fight or flight response

Incorrect Breathing
When you’re relaxed your breathing is slow, steady, and controlled. You breathe in deep, full breaths and your lungs take the oxygen you need and release it into your blood. As your lungs are taking oxygen from the air you’ve just breathed in, they’re also releasing carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is the waste that’s left behind from the oxygen you’ve breathed earlier.
You have this process going on all the time: taking oxygen in, letting carbon dioxide out. And with normal breathing the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide happens at just the right rate. But when you’re anxious this delicate process gets screwed up.
Anxiety makes you take faster, shorter breaths, which makes it much harder for your lungs to make the exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Anxious breathing generally makes you breathe out more than you breathe in, which means you get rid of too much carbon dioxide. That destroys your oxygen/carbon balance.
Your carbon dioxide levels fall and your oxygen levels rise. When your oxygen levels get high enough it raises the alkalinity in your blood, making the blood vessels around your body narrow. Narrow blood vessels means it’s hard for blood and oxygen to reach the parts of your body farthest from your heart. Your extremities, like your hands, feet, and face, will tingle or go numb, since they’re effectively being starved of oxygen.
Misfiring Fight or Flight Response
The second way that anxiety can cause numbness and tingling is all to do with the fight or flight response. You’re probably familiar with this response. It’s a survival instinct that kicks in when you’re in danger.
If your life is ever in jeopardy your fight or flight response gets instinctively triggered, causing lots of physical changes that’ll help you to either fight the danger or to run away from it. Your breathing will quicken, your heart will race, your blood will rush to your large muscles, and your senses will all heighten. These changes can save your life if you’re in extreme danger, so the fight or flight response is a wonderful thing to have on your side.
If you feel anxious all the time, your subconscious gets confused and misinterprets your anxiety as a sign you’re in physical danger. So your fight or flight response misfires. In other words, it happens when you don’t need it to. One of the biggest physical changes that happens as part of the fight or flight response is that your blood rushes to the parts of your body where you most need it if you’re in danger.
That means places like your thighs, chest, and shoulders to help you fight or run, and also to your head to help you think your way to safety. All this blood has to come from somewhere, and that somewhere is the areas of your body that aren’t important if you’re in a fight for your life. Places like your fingers, your toes, your stomach, and your lips.
When the blood leaves these areas they go numb and may also tingle, since they no longer have blood or oxygen in them. It’s a lot like when your leg falls asleep if you sit on it for a long time. If you sit on your leg for ten minutes it stops any blood from getting to your foot. No blood in your foot makes it go numb.
When your fight or flight response misfires and the blood rush away from your foot it’s exactly the same thing. No blood in your foot equals numbness and tingling.

Lip Tingling no Cold Sore

Remember, tingling is a symptom and not a disease and that is why its actual cause has to be recognized in order to get its aid. Once we know the reason and treat it properly, this irritable condition can be got rid of. For example you can have this condition and not have a cold sore. We have discussed above that cold sore is one of the causes of lips tingling. If you have this condition and you cannot trace the cause, it is better if you visit your doctor if it gets worse.

Tingling Lips and tongue

Tingling lips and tongue is a kind of a symptom that may call for agent examination. If it is lips alone, you can negotiate with it, but if the tongue is involved you better seek medical help, and there are no specific ways to rescue yourself from it. If you are sure the situation is not alarming, you handle the tingly lips and tongue at home. This is why, a healthy lifestyle, correct sleep timings, healthy nutritive diet, less consumption of tobacco and alcohol can at least prevent it to occur or re-occur.

How to Stop Tingling Lips

If an individual suffers from lips that tingle, then he must consult a physician so as to explore the casual reasons, because tingling of lips is a symptom or sign and not an illness. Thereby the identification of the illness through the symptom becomes extremely important, in order to undergo a proper treatment. Few remedies that help to avoid the occurrence of tingling lips are:
Antihistamine is the most common medication for the relief of allergies, and thus is most commonly recommended by physicians. If diabetes is causing peripheral neuropathy, the blood glucose levels need to be checked in order to stop the recurrence of tingling lips.
Obstruct histamine-1 receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract and blood vessels of an allergic individual, thus causing the allergens to stop from acting and eventually stopping the tingling in the lips.
Individuals who suffer from panic attacks must practice yoga and other techniques for relaxation, in order to overcome the problems relating to stress and thereby the occurrence of tingling lips.

  • Various herbal remedies also help to cure herpes, which sometimes results in tingling lips.
  • The toothbrush should be changed on a regular basis as old tooth brushes invite organisms that cause cold sores and thrush.
  • Salty and acidic food must be avoided as it further aggravates the pain and sensitivity associated with this condition.
  • Carbonated drinks must also be avoided in such conditions
  • Petroleum jelly must be frequently applied to heal cracks and prevent numbness.
  • Foods rich in vitamin B must be consumed which includes cheese, yogurt, whole eggs, fish spinach and carrot.

Women who apply too much of cosmetics such as lipsticks and lip glosses must reduce the usage of such cosmetics as they contain various kinds of chemical substances which temporarily enhance the beauty of the lips but may sometimes cause damages such as the tingling of lips.
Natural Treatments for Tingling Lips
With some of the causes of tingling and numb lips, there are some natural treatments that can help stop the tingling and get your lips back to normal.
Vitamin Intake
If the tingling of lips is an outcome of deficiency of vitamins especially folate and B12, you can go for trusted capsules to eventually get away with this problem. There are quick relieves through this remedy if the cause is vitamin deficiencies.
Herbs
Lemon mint extract are very helpful in tingling lips especially in case of herpes virus. Also, lysine supplements, mint grass and milk based medicated products can help you get rid of tingling lips. There are many other herbal remedies like basil leaves, neem, etc. which heal the problem. Make sure you consult before choosing one.
Eat a balanced diet
As some of the causes of tingling lips are linked to certain mineral deficiencies, the best way to take care of those issues is eating foods to boost those minerals. Minerals that are no longer deficient can no longer cause your lips to go numb. This may also help if the cause is low blood sugar.
Chewing basil leaves
Chewing basil leaves may help clear out a mouth infection that is causing the numbness.
Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil can help clear up sores and a few of the minor bacteria that can cause tingling lips. The best way to do this is to use a clean cotton ball, dip it in peppermint oil, and then rub the oil around your lips.
Don’t pick at it
Numb or tingling lips can often come with sores and dry or cracked skin on the lip area. Don’t pick at it or tear off the dead skin. This can leave your lips open to more pain and damage. If you need to remove dead skin, take a cotton ball and dip it in lukewarm water and wipe the area (or use a very soft toothbrush). This can help clean out the area and clean off the dead skin without causing damage to the new skin.
More references

  1. Tingling lips and the causes: http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/health-articles/tingling-lips-causes-home-remedies
  2. Lightheadedness and weakness due to lip tingling: http://www.health24.com/Experts/Question/lip-tingling-lightheadedness-and-weak-20090217
  3. Causes of tingling lips: http://diseasespictures.com/tingling-lips/
  4. Numbness and tingling: https://migraine.com/migraine-symptoms/numbness-tingling/
  5. Causes of tingling and numb lips: http://www.healthhype.com/causes-of-tingling-or-numb-lips.html

Lip Twitching Causes: Superstition, Lower, Left, Right Side, Stroke, Upper, How to Stop

Your lips begin to twitch uncontrollably at any time and are usually not a cause for concern. If you are experiencing a frequent lip twitching, or if it does not stop after a few minutes, you may want to further investigate the cause. This common event can be an indicator of an underlying health condition that requires medical attention.

Lip Twitching Meaning

Lip fasciculation, or twitching of the lips, is the involuntary sudden movement of the muscle fibers in your upper, lower, or both lips. During a twitch, it may feel obvious that people around you can see it, but that is not the case. In addition to the muscle contractions in your lip, you may also have numbness, repeated spasms, or even the sensation of a palpitation in the lip.

Symptoms Associated With Lip Twitching

Lip Twitching is a symptom and not a medical condition. Thus it is important to study the associated symptoms so that one can come up with a cause for the twitch of the lip and formulate a treatment plan to get rid of the problem of this condition. Some of the associated symptoms that occur along with Lip Twitching are:

  • Abrupt contraction or shrinkage of muscles of the lower lip
  • Repeated involuntary spasms around the facial region
  • Lack of sensation in the lip along with a feeling of numbness
  • Abnormal motion of the lower lip.

Lip Twitching Causes

Lip twitch can be a rather disturbing symptom for some people although in most cases the cause behind it may not be serious. Most cases of a twitching lip may be due to stress, fatigue, emotion, excessive caffeine intake, or some deficiency in the diet such as potassium. Lip twitch in most cases is self-limiting, disappearing in minutes or maybe in a few days without any residual problems. However persistent lip twitch with other signs and symptoms should be investigated for other underlying disorders.
Causes of twitch of the lip
There is always a reason for our lips to twitch, whether from emotional distress to a neurological health condition. We will take a look at upper lip twitch causes, as well as lower lip twitching causes.
Emotions
In cases where we become overly excited, distraught, or completely overwhelmed, our lips may begin to tremble. The nerve endings in our upper and lower lips are stimulated by the autonomic nervous system, and its sympathetic nervous system. We also may experience pupil dilation, facial flushing, speech impediment, and watery eyes. The twitching usually lasts until we focus on the event causing the emotional reaction.
Essential Tremors
Lip twitch may be a symptom of essential tremors which can affect the head and extremities. Not to be confused with Parkinson’s disease, essential tremors occur as the body’s response to muscle contractions from a neurological condition. No cause has been determined; however, those with a family history of essential tremors have a 50% chance of also experiencing these tremors. It appears usually after the age of 40, and symptoms become progressively worse over time. Essential tremors are not part of the natural ageing process.
Substance Withdrawal
After a time period without neurostimulants such as caffeine, alcohol, or street drugs, a person can experience lip twitch. This can also happen during excessive use of such substances. Lip twitching is evident during the withdrawal period, as well as for a significant length of time after recovery. Along with the twitching, you may have tremors of the head, tongue, and vocal cords.
Bell’s Palsy
The twitching of upper lip can be present in those with Bell’s palsy. This condition can be present after the facial nerve is damaged or injured. In addition to upper lip twitching, it can affect one side of the face with signs of drooping and swelling. Speech will also be affected by this condition.
Parkinson’s Disease
Gradual deterioration of dopamine cells within the central nervous system can cause a twitch in the upper or lower lip, or even both lips. Known as Parkinson’s disease, this condition can also offer symptoms of extremity shaking, hand tremors, muscle stiffness, mobility difficulty, and speech impediment. The lips may twitch when the person is not speaking or eating in the early stages of the disease.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Known as ALS, this neurodegenerative condition often presents twitching of the upper lip and face muscles as indicators. It is caused by genetic markers, biochemical imbalances, or as a result of an autoimmune disorder. The twitching relates to the beginning of the muscles gradually weakening, and will eventually result in paralyzation.
Hemi- facial Spasm
Cases of hemi -facial spasms identify with upper lip twitch, as well as facial muscle contractions, and paralysis of muscle-controlling facial expressions. The twitching of the lip may be reoccurring. This condition is linked to compression of the facial nerve, but no direct cause has been found. Some cases have lip twitching heightened with anxiety or fatigue.
Hypoparathyroidism
Lip twitch is a major symptom of hypoparathyroidism. This condition relates to the decrease in production of the parathyroid hormone. In addition to lower or upper lip twitch, it can affect other muscles, such as those in the hands and feet. Dry skin, brittle nails, leg cramps, and depression are other symptoms.
Tourette’s Syndrome
Upper lip twitches and the movements of facial muscles are key indicators of Tourette’s syndrome. Referred to as tics, the involuntary movement of the muscles can be seen with blinking, scrunching of the nose, and clearing of the throat. Behavioral issues, involuntary vocalization sounds, and sudden obscenity yelling are also associated with this neurological disorder.
DiGeorge Syndrome

Under-development of the body caused by the absence of chromosome 22 is known as the inherited DiGeorge syndrome. Twitching of the lips and other facial features are part of this condition, and may be seen at birth or later in life. Other symptoms include leg and hand muscle spasms, breathing difficulty, fatigue, or a blue hue of the skin.
Tics
A facial tic may involve the eyes or muscles of the face and lips. There is repeated spasm of the involved muscles. Tics occur frequently in childhood and often resolve on their own but may sometimes continue throughout life. Stress is known to aggravate this condition.
Parkinson’s Disease
In Parkinson’s disease, twitching or tremor of the lips may occur as rhythmical involuntary, movements affecting one or both lips, along with other signs and symptoms of the disease. This tremor of the lips occurs at rest and may stop while performing activities such as eating or speaking – typical of resting tremors in Parkinson’s disease. Twitching of the lips is not observed when the patient is sleeping. In later stages of the disease, lip twitching may continue even when the patient is talking or eating.
Other signs and symptoms of Parkinson’s disease may include :

  • Tremor, usually starting in the hands.
  • Slowness of movement.
  • Muscle stiffness.
  • Problems with balance and co-ordination.
  • Slow monotonous speech.
  • Walking with short shuffling steps.
  • Fixed facial expression with a staring gaze and little or no blinking.

Essential Tremor
This is one of the most common types of tremor and usually involves the arms, hands and head. The tremor occurs most frequently on stretching the arms or trying to perform some activity and is often associated with neurological disorders. There may be a family history of essential tremor although often, no known cause can be identified. It is minimal at rest and may disappear during sleep. There may be periods of uncontrollable tremors and even shaking of parts of the body that subsides after a short period of time.
Drug Induced Tremor
These tremors may arise from long term or continuous abuse of alcohol or narcotic use, including crystal meth addition. Drug induced tremors may also be present as a result of opiate withdrawal and can be severe during the detoxification phase. It may also persist after rehabilitation as is seen in recovering addicts, along with other symptoms like head tremor, voice, tongue and lip tremor, causing difficulty with speech.
Hysterical Tremor
A hysterical tremor usually occurs in a heightened emotional state. This sort of tremor or twitching of the lips disappears or reduces when the patient is distracted. It is not usually a serious issue on its own.

Lip Twitching Superstition

In some cultures, it is seen as an omen or a nature’s way of warning human of an impending occurrence when you experience lip twitch. Scientifically, all planets in the solar system radiates is own specific kind of energy. Due difference in the planetary conjunctions we are all born in, the emitted energies will have different effects on different individuals.
Superstitions attempt to interpret the meaning of the twitching based on the part of the body that twitches. For example the twitching of the right eye or eyelid is interpreted to mean good fortune is coming. On the other hand, if the twitching was on the left eye or eyelid, then it could mean a bad omen.
Another common believe is that if the right thumb of hand or foot twitches, it is said you are going to be successful in your endeavors. It is believed that all your wishes are likely to be fulfilled even within the same day. The contrary is that, it indicates bad luck and problem hindrances s to your ventures.
Lip Twitch Superstition

For lip twitch, it was believed for old wives that this could be a possible indication of goodness relating to matters of love. Now this kind of believed and interpretation will differ from one geographical location to the other. If you hold a different view or superstation about the twitching of the lip we would love to know about it. Please share it in the comment box below.
You may have heard of certain superstitions when it comes to the twitching of the lips. These statements may pertain to upper lip twitch superstition or a lower lip twitching superstition. As with the idea that someone is thinking of you when your nose itches, there are a few sayings that have developed from bouts of lip twitching, such as:

  • Upper lip twitch means you can expect someone to kiss you in the near future; it also can be switched to meaning you may kiss someone instead.
  • Expect something bad to happen when your left side of lip begins to twitch.
  • Expect something good to happen when your right side of lip begins to twitch.

Lip twitch can happen suddenly, and may prove to be embarrassing while in public. This involuntary movement of the muscle fibers within our lips can be a result of emotions or stress. It can also be a sign of a serious health condition or disorder.
Twitching of the lips usually does not last very long in most cases, and sometimes can be stopped by applying pressure to the trembling lip with a finger or teeth. For reoccurring episodes, treatment is based on the cause. Some lip twitches can be controlled or avoided with a few lifestyle changes.

Lip Twitching Stroke

It is important to recognize the early warning signs of a stroke. The earlier someone receives treatment for stroke symptoms, the better the chances of a complete recovery. For the best results, the patient should be treated within one hour of the onset of symptoms. Taking a wait-and-see approach can make recovery more difficult or even impossible.
Don’t ignore any twitch on your face
Often, someone will experience stroke symptoms for a few seconds or minutes, and then the symptoms will go away. This can be a sign of a transient ischemic attack (TIA). Roughly 30 percent of people who suffer from a stroke experience lip twitching can as well occur in the days or weeks leading up to the stroke.
If you or someone you know experiences any stroke symptoms, it is important to visit the emergency room immediately, even if the symptoms subside. Even if the symptoms go away, the condition that led to the TIA is still there, and there is every reason to suspect that a stroke is imminent.
Look for Unusual Symptoms
Not all people experience the textbook warning signs of a stroke. Women, in particular, often experience less common early symptoms. A female who develops sudden nausea, overwhelming weakness, chest pains, lip twitch, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath or even a sudden case of hiccups may be in the early stages of a stroke.
Other unusual early warning signs of a stroke in either sex are difficulty swallowing or sudden hoarseness. Uncontrollable muscle twitching or eye movements are also early warning signals that some people experience.

Lower Lip Twitching Left Side

A flickering lip on one side of the lip can be a great reason for concern. Different communities have tried to interpret what the twitching could mean, but at the end the interpretation tends to vary from one geographical location to the other.
Your lower lip twitch on the left side can be minor, which eventually clears on its own or severe when caused by a serious underlying medical condition.  Depending on the symptoms exhibited, your health care provider can run some diagnosis and establish what the underlying cause of the spasm is. Treatment for the underlying cause can then be prescribed.
If the twitch is a mild, it can be managed at home using simple remedy such as a warm compress, having adequate sleep or physical activities such as yoga to relax and relieve stress.

Lower Lip Twitching Right Side

Lower lip twitch on the right side is a clear signal of nerve problem on the right side of the lip. From the beginning, we have seen that neurological disorder is a possible cause of the twitching and muscle spasm on lip. All the other causes discussed above could also lead to the flickering of the lower lip on the right side.
Mild episodes of twitching can be managed with a simple hot compress. Pat your lips with a face towel dip in hot water within interval of 20 minutes to stop the twitching. If the twitching persists seek medical attention as soon as possible.
The twitching as it has been said is involuntary, that is why it is important to seek medical attention as soon as you notice other symptoms start to appear. This could include feeling of numbness on lips, the swelling of nodes or difficulties in moving your jaws or lip.

Eye and Lip Twitching

The eye is very near the sinuses and can get affected because of the sinus inflammation. Some nerves of your eye are passing through your sinuses and ending at your brain. When your sinuses are inflamed some nerves can get irritated, causing muscle spasms that will run from the eye area down to the lip area.
It is something that can happen to anyone, and can affect your top, bottom, or both lips and is a very common. It can happen due to many things including stress or fatigue, deficiency of potassium, lack of electrolytes, withdrawal or excess intake of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes. Sometimes Lip twitching can also result from a neck pain. Lip twitch in most cases is self-limiting. Another common cause is Sinusitis. Sinuses located around your eyes and nose, that twitching might cause pressure on facial nerve.

How to Stop Lip Twitching

Majority of Lip Twitch caused due to medical conditions can be taken care of by treating the underlying cause. Lip Twitch caused due to diseases like Parkinson Disease and DiGeorge Syndrome may not go away permanently as a definite cure for these conditions has not been found yet but Lip Twitch caused due to conditions like anxiety, fear, alcohol or drug abuse can be prevented if the following measures are taken.

  • To get rid of anxiety and alcohol related problems, certain lifestyle changes along with consultation with a skilled psychiatrist with use of medications can help a great deal in getting rid of not only the underlying anxiety and alcohol problem but also its related symptoms of lip twitch.
  • Avoid caffeine as much as possible as this is yet another cause of lip twitching.
  • As soon as lip twitch starts you can apply a warm cloth to the lips or apply pressure as this will stop lip twitching instantly.
  • Manage stress appropriately and if possible try yoga or other forms of exercise to keep the stress under control which will get rid of lip twitch caused due to extreme stress.
  • In case if lip twitching is caused due to potassium deficiency then eating food rich in potassium like water melon and banana are quite effective in getting rid of twitching of the lips.

This In summary, Lip Twitch is not something to be too concerned about unless it points to an underlying medical condition. If the condition is persistent then it is always better to get it evaluated by a physician so that a definitive diagnosis can be made and a treatment plan can be formulated to permanently get rid of Lip Twitch.
How to Stop a Twitching Lip Naturally?

  • To overcome fear or any possible condition brought by the twitching, consult a doctor to be sure.
  • Maintain a more relaxed state of mind and body, away from stress that could cause agitation.
  • Surround oneself with family or peers who can help with an existing problem or difficulty.
  • Reduce intake of caffeine or alcoholic drinks.
  • Patient can put a warm compress on the twitching to relax the muscles.
  • Eat a sufficient supply of foods with a high Potassium content. Magnesium-rich foods may also help in stopping lip twitching.

More references

  1. Lip twitch meaning: http://www.doctorshealthpress.com/general-health-articles/lip-twitching-causes-treatment
  2. Lip twitching: http://www.healthhype.com/lip-twitching.html
  3. Early signs of impending stroke: http://www.livestrong.com/article/15808-early-signs-impending-stroke/

Cut on Lip or Cold Sore? Turned White, inside Mouth, Corner, How to Heal, Treat, Home Remedies

Apart from adults, even children often get minor cuts, wounds, and lacerations to the mouth and lips while playing, climbing, or participating in sports activities. Most of these injuries can be handled at home with simple first-aid treatment. The gums, tongue, and lips have a rich blood supply. When cut on lip happen, these areas may bleed a lot.

First aid for superficial cuts and wounds

Recommendations that doctors may give for taking care of cuts and wounds include the following:

  • Calm your child and let him or her know you can help.
  • Apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage for several minutes to stop bleeding.
  • Wash your hands well.
  • If the wound is on the lips or outside area of the mouth, wash it well with soap and water. Do not scrub the wound. Remove any dirt particles from the area and let the water from the faucet run over it for several minutes. A dirty cut or scrape that is not well cleaned can cause scarring:
  • Apply an antiseptic lotion or cream.
  • Give your child an ice pop or ice cube to suck on to help reduce bleeding and swelling.
  • Check the area each day and keep it clean and dry.
  • Avoid blowing on the wound, as this can cause germs to grow.
  • Use a sunscreen (sun protection factor, or SPF, at least 15 or greater) on healed cuts and wounds to help prevent scarring.

If the wound is inside the mouth, rinse the area well with cool water for several minutes. Remove any dirt particles from the area:

  • Give your child an ice pop or ice cube to suck on to help reduce bleeding and swelling.
  • Check the area each day and keep it clean.

Even small cuts on lips may cause a noticeable difference in the border or outline of the lips. These wounds may need stitches to keep the borders even and reduce the possibility of scars. Cuts that happen in the corner of the mouth where the upper and lower lips come together have the potential for very severe bleeding.
Often cuts inside the mouth, even if they appear large, are left to heal spontaneously without the need for stitches.
Bruises, blisters, or swelling on the lips caused by trauma may be treated by sucking on ice pops or ice cubes or by applying a cold pack to the area every 1 to 2 hours for 10 to 15 minutes for the first 24 hours.
You May Also Like:

  1. Cut on Tongue
  2. Cracked Corner of Mouth

Cut on Lip or Cold Sore

Cuts and canker sores are very much different from cold sores. However, there are numerous persons who do not know this and usually assume them to be the same. There are several differentiating features that can help a person tell the two apart. If you are not sure about whether or not you have a cut, canker sore or cold sore, it’s best to speak with a doctor to get confirmation. However, here are some ways to distinguish between cuts and cold sores:

  • Canker sores are located inside the mouth, on the gums or inner cheek. 

A canker sore, while painful is not something that is contagious. They can be caused by different factors such as stress, hormones, poor diet, or even food allergies. In appearance, canker sores are either yellow or white with a red centre.
They usually go away without the need of medication and no one is in danger of catching any type of virus if you kiss or share food. Another thing to take note, canker sores rarely form within the mouth and usually form on the lip or near it.

  • Cuts usually occur on the lips or mouth area and can have several causes but they are not to be mistaken for cold sores.

Sometimes when lips are incredibly dry, you can get cuts or something known as split lips. It is not a very pretty look but with some care, time, and patience these cut on lip will heal.
Split lips are caused by outside elements and also due to lack of hydration. Drink plenty of water and make sure to invest in a lip balm that will protect your lips against the cold, wind, or dry air. If dry lips that are causing these cuts and lacerations persist, speak with your doctor to make sure this isn’t an effect of something else.

  • Cold sores or fever blisters are associated with the herpes simplex virus.

They have a very different appearance compared to a cut on lip. The cold sore looks like a red dot on the lip area but if you look closely they are usually groups of red, fluid-filled blisters. These blisters can break, leak, and scab over. Unlike cuts and canker sores, cold sores are contagious and contain the herpes virus.
So skin-to-skin contact with an active cold sore can usually spread the virus to another person. Sometimes cold sores come with symptoms as well. There may be pain at the affected area, fever, sore throat, or scabbing of the blister. You must remember that the herpes virus is not curable but is most definitely manageable.
Conclusion
Therefore, whether you have a cut, canker sore, or cold sore, these can often be treated with over the counter ointments, creams, and gels. If you find yourself experiencing a ton of pain or whatever you have on your lip is taking a long time to heal and go away, it may be time to speak with a doctor to get more powerful medication.

How to Heal a Cut Lip inside Mouth

The person should be checked for associated injuries such as problems breathing or swallowing, facial fractures, loose or missing teeth, or more serious tissue loss. Patients should receive a tetanus vaccine if their tetanus shot is not up-to-date. Severe mouth wounds should be treated at a trauma centre by a surgeon.
Very often, treatments include observation for many wounds and do not involve the vermilion border (the cosmetic line that marks the border of the lips on the face). However, lacerations that bleed for more than 15 minutes after holding pressure may require stitches.
For those cuts inside the mouth may require antibiotics. You may visit a chemist or your doctor who will advise on the best medications for your case. Many at times, those cuts inside mouth will heal on their own unless they are infected.

Cut on Lip Turned White

Depending on several factors, the recovery speed of wounds might differ from one person to another. As well as the steps of the recovery, some people might have a wound or scratch from initial bleeding phase and after being cured, moving on to the a reddish brown colour of scab which after that usually be followed by total recovery of the skin may be within a week.
However, some people have to undergo a phase where their cut on lip skin around the area of the wound or even in the middle if the wound turns to pale white colour. Now, what is that white scab and how to avoid or cure it? Basically, reading the answers of those two questions will also answer your question, why is wound turning white?

What is the white scab on cut on lip and how to take care of it?

Scab is basically a natural product that our body produces to protect the wound, however different type of treatments that a person uses might cause the wound has a white scab or even a slightly gooey white scab. Your condition and immune system can also be the cause of the presence of white scab.
Trapped moisture is a very common reason of white scab, other than that, extreme exposure of thick ointment could also be the reason for people who live then but also nowadays, allergic reaction and skin infection are some other reasons that can cause a more serious effect, and the last one probably is hypopigmentation.
The moisture is often caused by high level of water in your body or being in contact with your body. People who usually let the wound being indirectly rinsed by water during shower have the highest risk of getting a white scab because of trapped moisture.

How to Heal a Cut on Lip Corner

Cracks in the corners of the mouth can turn eating, drinking or smiling into a painful chore. This inflammatory condition, called angular chelitis, doesn’t have one single cause. The cracks typically go away on their own, but you can help them heal faster by treating your lips with a home remedy.

Causes of cracked lips

Angular chelitis and chapped lips are commonly caused by dry, cold weather. Sometimes, though, the cracks can be a symptom of a health condition. Certain products, such as lipstick or toothpaste, can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Angular chelitis is also an indicator of B-vitamin deficiencies, anaemia caused by iron deficiency or a yeast, strep or staph infection.
If the cracks or sores on your lips become more painful or swollen after a week of home treatment, see a doctor, who may need to treat the problem with an antibiotic or antifungal medication. In these cases, home remedies can ease irritation and pain, but they’re unlikely to make the problem go away.
Home Treatments

  • Use of lip balms and ointments on cut on lips that contain vitamin E, lanolin and Shea butter soothe painful cracks and sores. If you don’t have any lip balm, petroleum jelly also works. Avoid products that contain eucalyptus, cinnamon, menthol or camphor — they can make irritation worse.
  • Honey lubricates lips and speeds up healing. Smear a dab of honey on cracked lips before bed and then let your skin absorb it overnight.
  • Yogurt that contains live active cultures, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, may help as well. Apply some plain yogurt to the cracked area. Then put a spoonful in your mouth and swish it around before swallowing in case your cracks are caused by yeast.

Fixing the cracks at the corners
Chronic yeast infections may cause only minor discomfort while acute infections can affect the whole mouth and throat. In either case, they can be treated with a course of oral or topical antifungal (yeast) medication. NY statin may be used as a troche (a small medicated lozenge designed to dissolve) that is rinsed with and then swallowed so that it works in the mouth and throughout the body.
Antifungal ointments can also be applied liberally to the corners of the mouth several times a day to clear infection. They may be used in combination with a steroid ointment to control redness and inflammation, as well as zinc oxide paste or ointment, which is a barrier (skin) repair agent that has antifungal properties.
If infection arises from inside the mouth, it is likely to recur if only the corners of the mouth are treated. Chlorhexidine rinses can also be used to treat minor oral yeast infections. It is also effective for cleaning and scrubbing dentures; however, it is important to leave them out at night.

Cut Lip Treatment Home Remedies

A cut on lip can be a small surface wound or a deep gash. If it’s a deep gash, then do visit a doctor to check if you need stitches. However, if it is not, then you might just need to give the wound some care and use some medicines or home remedies for relief. Here are some home remedy ideas to help you treat cut and chapped lips.

  • If you have a cut on your lip, it is very important to keep the infection at bay. Tea tree oil is known for its antimicrobial agent and is very effective against fungi and bacteria. Apply some tea tree oil on your lips to reduce the inflammation and safeguard the wound against bacteria.
  • You might also like to drink tea brewed with feverfew and ginger to reduce the inflammation. Drink this tea thrice a day.
  • Cut on lips because they are chapped, keep yourself well-hydrated. Drink water regularly through the day as this keeps you, your lips and body well hydrated.
  • When you buy a lip balm, look for hydrating ingredients such as coconut oil, jojoba, almond, Shea butter, beeswax and vitamin E. You can also use petroleum jelly. If you have sensitive skin, then do not use camphor-based lip balms as these can cause irritation.
  • You might want to use a humidifier to add some moisture to dry indoor air.
  • You must also check your diet to see if you are getting enough essential fatty acids, iron, and B vitamins. A deficiency in any of these can cause cracking of lip corners and scaling of lips. Consult a doctor and take a multivitamin.
  • If you have cuts and chapped lips, then check to find out if it’s been caused by allergy to lipstick dyes.
  • You can also hydrate your lips by dabbing a cool wet cloth over your lips. You can seal in the moisture by applying a lip balm. Apply some every few hours when your lips are dry and chapped. Don’t wait for your lips to crack and for cuts to develop before reaching for that lip balm. You can also use a balm or cream with spa to protect your lips from sun damage.
  • Don’t lick or bite your lips.

The cut on lips or other herpes symptoms can be only treated by the use of medications specially designed to suppress the herpes virus. A herpes sore is a cut on the lip that won’t heal with the help of home remedies for regular cuts and scrapes.
Cuts on lips due to herpes can keep coming back and causing you a lot of grief. Since the virus cannot be eliminated completely from the body, the symptoms can keep showing after brief periods of remittance.
If the cracked and chapped lips are caused simply due to environmental conditions, use a humidifier to add moisture to the dry indoor air. Also keep a check on your diet and include vitamin B, fatty acids, and iron in your diet.

How Long Does a Busted Lip Treatment Take to Heal

Busted lips are common problems that many people experience. Swollen lips do not only contribute to imperfect physical look, but may also cause itching and pain. A cut on lip and mouth can cause either one of or both lips to bleed or bust.

What contributes to a swollen lip?

Busted lips occur as a result of trauma to the tissues of the lip, which is triggered by inflammation or fluid build-up. Lip enlargement may affect the upper and lower lip on its outer and inner sides. These injuries can be minor and more severe, depending on the causes. Some of the most common triggers of busted lips, some of those are:
Bug bites and stings
They cause the body to naturally defend its parts from any kinds of chemical released by biting insects by triggering inflammation of certain tissues. Bug bites and stings are commonly harmless, and cut on lip caused by this factor can be healed by applying topical analgesic ointment.
Allergies
Some allergies causes watery eyes and sneezing, while some others can cause busted lips as a natural reaction of the immune system when the body has a contact with foreign allergens, such as dust mites, pollen, foods, and other kinds of allergens. Allergies are usually healed by taking prescribed antibiotics or keeping away from potential allergens.
Infection
Lip infection can be caused by some different risk factors. The most common infection to the lips is herpes virus infection. This kind of infection causes blisters to occur on the lips and around the mouth, causing itching, burning sensation, and inflammation.
Trauma
Another common cause of busted lips is trauma to the lips and mouth area. The trauma can be as a result by a hard contact between the lips and hard objects or surfaces. Punches and accidents, for instance, may cause either severely busted or bleeding lips.
Medications
The side effects of certain medications may contribute to busted or swollen lips, because the chemicals contained in these medications may cause its tissues to inflame.

How long does a busted lip need to go down?

Busted lips might be an embarrassing problem related to physical appearance. Yet there is natural method to heal busted lip, it also causes pain and discomfort which requires specific attention. Hence, people try to do various things to find out the cause of their busted lips to determine the length of required period for the busted lips to go down. In fact, this period is affected by some factors, such as:

  • The cause of the swelling.
  • The severity of busted area of the lips.
  • Taken or performed treatments.

However, some common busted lip phenomena will need variety of time length before it completely heals and goes down. This may include:

  • Busted lip from insect bite does not usually last long, since the chemical secreted by the biting insects will be combated by the immune system and thus, resulted in flattened busted lip. Normally, inflammation caused by the bite will last less than a day, especially when effective topical analgesic is involved.
  • Busted lip from an infection will take longer time to heal. With herpes, for example, someone may need three days to a week to completely find out flattened cut on lips.
  • The one from trauma might be the longest to heal, especially if it is severely busted and wounded, as the tissues and new cells take some time to regrow completely.
  • Swollen lips as a result of cosmetic surgery can heal after a long period, when the injected material is taken out or dissolved. However, it can also be quite permanent, as a prolonged reaction to these material.

Acne around Mouth and Chin, Causes, Cure

What cause acne around mouth? Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. Acne usually appears on your mouth, face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. Effective treatments are available, but acne can be persistent. The pimples and bumps heal slowly, and when one begins to go away, others seem to crop up.

What Causes Acne around the Mouth?

Causes include:

  • Lip balm

All the happiness induced by lip balm might not be a problem except that the fragrances used in lip balm stimulate the production of sebum on skin surrounding the mouth. The wax from the lip balm can clog pores.
The fragrances and flavorings used to make lip balm irresistible irritate the skin, which causes it to make more sebum—which gets trapped underneath the wax inside a pore surrounded by dry skin. Because these ingredients are also irritating, the inflame the pore that is already clogged, and  acne around mouth starts to multiply.

  • Toothpaste

Sodium lauryl sulfate, which is also known as sodium lauryl sulphate, sodium dodecyl sulphate, and SLS, is a sudsing agent. It added to toothpaste to make sure it doesn’t get stuck in the bottom of the tube, and also to give the product a foaming action against your teeth and gums. This chemical is added to tons of thousands of other detergents to make them foamy so they can lift grease and grime.
The problem with SLS or any other sudsing agent on your skin, especially at the corners of your mouth, is that the surface tension generated at the edges of the bubbles can stimulate acne around mouth skin to appear. The skin’s first aid for these cracks is sebum generated by nearby pores.
That doesn’t cause acne round mouth breakouts, but if toothpaste also gets into those pores and irritates them, excess sebum can get trapped. Surrounding skin is not protected, and the clogged pore forms a whitehead or blackhead if it not inflamed or a pimple if it is.

  • Eating spicy foods

Spicy foods often contain tomatoes and peppers, which contain acidic lycopene that can be an irritant to some people, throwing off their skin’s pH levels and triggering acne around mouth breakouts. However, it isn’t just spicy foods that can irritate your skin.

  • Using products that contain pore-clogging ingredients

Mineral oil is a super-heavy moisturizing agent found in some lotions, but it’s also known to clog your pores and trigger acne around mouth outbreak.

  • OD’ing on spot treatments

Overusing topical salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or sulphur over-the-counter treatments can dry out your skin, causing it to produce more oil and possibly blemishes or stimulate outbreak of acne around mouth. Those ingredients can actually make the appearance of your pimples look worse, since the active ingredients can slightly burn the top layer of your skin if used too often, making the pimple appear even redder and harder to conceal than if you had just left it alone.

  • Hair products

The sulfates (cleansing agents), heavy moisturizing agents, and silicones that your shampoo, conditioner, and stylers contain can seep into your pores, clogging them and resulting in mouth acne,  chestacne, or pesky pimples along your mouth.

  • Smoke

Every time you light up a cigarette, you decrease the amount of oxygen that goes to your face. This not only predisposes you to cancer, and causes the breakdown of collagen and elastin that leads to wrinkles and increased pore size, but the carcinogens in the smoke also irritates your skin and dries it out, triggering your skin to produce more oil and possibly more breakouts of acne around mouth.

  • Scrubbing around the mouth

A lot of people with acne think that the more you scrub your skin with a washcloth, rough exfoliants (like crushed apricot seeds), or cleansing brushes, the smoother your skin will be, but in reality, the problem will only inevitably get worse.

  • picking at your pimples

When you try to press the plug or oil or puss out of your pore, you run the risk of pushing the bacteria deeper or spreading it around underneath your skin, multiplying your acne even more on around your mouth.

  • Releasing pent-up stress properly

Stress triggers acne and acne results in more stress, so it’s a very vicious cycle. Basically, when you’re under pressure, your skin produces stress hormones, including cortisol, that can stimulate your oil glands to make testosterone that then increases oil production and clogs pores thus outbreak of acne around mouth.

  • wrong detergent

Some chemicals in laundry detergent can be too harsh for your skin, and once you slip on your clothes or lie on your pillow, your skin might react to the residue that’s left on the fabric, resulting in breakouts on your face, back, butt, chest, etc.

  • sun-worshipper

Contrary to popular belief, the sun isn’t healing your acne; it’s actually making it worse. What happens is, as your face gets red from the sun, it makes any breakouts you might already have blend in, creating the appearance of clearer skin. But what’s really going on is the sun causing your skin to dry out and triggering more oil production, which can lead to more zits.

What does it mean when you have Pimples around Mouth

Reasons include:

  1. Skin Irritation due to Food

If you have the habit of eating such that your food sticks around your mouth, you may get acne around moth. This is because the foods particles may serve as an irritant, thereby eliciting a reaction. The reaction subsides as you clean the area around your mouth cavity.

  1. Fungal infection

As we eat our food, some food particles stick around the mouth region. Our oral cavity is filled with fungus, like candida. This fungus may find grounds to grow around the mouth area, where food particles are present. The area looks red with small bumps. It is itchy.

  1. Perioral Dermatitis

Dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin around the mouth, is common in females in the age group 25 to 40. There may be redness and acne around mouth. These may or may not be itchy. Reason behind dermatitis is not clearly known. It is postulated that use of fluoridated toothpaste or waxy make up kits may be the cause.

  1. Cold Sores

These sores may be caused by viral infestations, like herpes. These sores may be symptomless, present as re bumps over the skin surface especially acne around mouth being visible.

  1. Red Bumps

Several red bumps may occur around the mouth if you have constipated or other gastric upsets. This is a way improper digestion surfaces out over the skin.

Other Reasons for Pimples around Lips

Causes include:

  1. Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal imbalances during various stages of growth can cause pimples including the ones on your lips. For instance, most women will have pimples on lips during pregnancy due to hormonal changes at this critical stage of their lives. Similarly, during puberty (especially in teenagers) there is a higher likelihood of pimples due to hyperactive glands and hormonal changes.

  1. Sexually transmitted diseases

As seen already, contracting herpes, a sexually transmitted infection, can cause lip pimples or even acne around mouth. However, you can easily know them since they will be in small clusters, have an ulcer-like look and be painful. We do not intend to dwell much on lip pimples caused by herpes as we have already discussed much on them.

  1. Skin type

Another possible reason for pimple on your lips could be your skin type. Generally, people who have oily skins have been found to be more prone to pimples even on their lips or acne around mouth outbreak compared to other skin types. Therefore, if you have an oily skin type, these could be the reason.

  1. Inexpensive and low quality lip makeup

Some of the inexpensive lip glosses, lipsticks, moisturizers, and lip balm have been associated with pimples on lips. Most of these products may contain harmful and low quality ingredients which get absorbed into your skin.

  1. Allergic reactions

If you often develop pimples on your lips each time you use certain lip care products, you might be allergic to some of the ingredients present. In addition, some people are allergic even to the finest qualities of lip care products due to the ingredients they have.

  1. Contaminated and expired lip care products

Using contaminated and expired lip makeup can also cause these pimples. Once these lip care products expire, or get contaminated they can easily harbor some pathogens which will bleed onto your lips and be a cause of pimples and other infections on your lips.

  1. Greasy, fatty and poor diet

Eating greasy unhealthy foods as well as a poor general diet can result to pimples on your body including your lips. You are likely to develop acne around mouth like pimples or even whiteheads on your lips because of such foods.

  1. Personal hygiene

Just like body pimples, pimples on lips can be caused by poor hygiene that might include not cleaning your lips after eating greasy foods (this can results to oil build up that will block pores on your lip line) as well as not clean and exfoliating your lips regularly.

  1. Medication that contain corticosteroids or lithium

People who use medications that contain corticosteroids or lithium tend to suffer from pimples generally. These medications are thought to be behind these pimples even on lips.

How do you get rid of a pimple on your lip

  • Careful choice of lip makeup

When choosing lip makeup, go for sheer lip glosses and those that have less pigment (less opaque brands). The more pigmented a brand is, the more likely it will clog air pores.

  • Keep good lip hygiene and anti-acne products

Another way to get rid of lip pimples is to ensure you always keep your lips clean. After eating greasy foods, ensure you get rid of excess grease on your lip line. Using a pad soaked with salicylic acid toner can ensure your lips are thoroughly clean.

  • Lip scrubbing and exfoliation

Ensure you always scrub your lips to get rid of any dead skin regularly. Lip exfoliation can be done with any of the good lip exfoliators available in the market or homemade and natural ones. An easy way to exfoliate your lips is gently scrubbing your lips after you have brushed your teeth. This will remove any dead skin whose accumulation can lead to acne, zits and pimples.

  • Hot or cold compresses

A good home remedy for lip pimple is hot compress. Take a clean piece of cloth, deep it in warm water and apply it on the part of your lip with a pimple. This will help soothe it and reduce its appearance especially if you have a swollen lip from pimple or one that hurts. At times, cold compresses can also be equally helpful.

  • Face care products

Some of the face care products might be affecting your lips and causing it to have pimples. Try changing the face washes, lotions and soaps to see if the problem can go away. Cleanser with lavender oil, tea tree oil and arctium lappa can be of help on your lip pimples.

  • Do not pop or squeeze pimples

If you are trying to get rid of lip on your lip pimples fast, one temptation you are likely to get into is popping the pimples. Do not pop them. This does not just apply to pimples on lip (upper, lower or inner lips) but to all pimples generally. Popped pimple on lip will only worsen the situation since they might spread bacteria around your lips.

  • Apply foods with alpha hydroxyl acids

Another simple home remedy for zits on lips is to topically use foods rich in Alpha hydroxyl acids. Try to use citrus fruits such as grapes, apples and oranges on your lips to help remove any dead skin as well as open any clogged pores on your lips.

  • Good diet and plenty of water

Always ensure your diet is rich in zinc, magnesium, vitamin A and E as they can work well in reducing acne and pimple breakouts. Retinol for instance is rich in vitamin A and that is why it is used to treat pimples. Keep way from products that have caffeine and ensure you drink enough water. If you smoke, quit it.

  • Stress managements

If you lead a stressful life, ensure you use various ways and therapies to manage it. Stress is also harmful to you in many other ways including generating free radicles that can cause early aging.

  • Try herbs

Some herbs and herbal medicated ointments can be of help. Get for herbs such as castor oil, eucalyptus, basil and neem and apply them on the affected areas.

Hormonal Acne around Mouth and Chin

Hormonal acne occurs first and foremost around the mouth. It shows up on the chin, below the nose, around the sides of the mouth, and sometimes up the jawline. AS hormonal acne worsens, however, it spreads to the cheeks and the forehead.
Causes include:
Testosterone causes oil production in the skin. You may also have high testosterone if you have diabetes or insulin resistance, because when the body produces insulin, the ovaries produce testosterone. It’s a very simple yet very damaging process.
Hormonal acne around mouth or chin usually occurs in the form of cysts. Cysts are those lovely, pus-filled, painful and inflamed red bumps. They often culminate in a peak of white pus.
Hormonal acne also appears as more mild forms called comedones. These are those whitehead “bumps” that never break the surface

  1. DHEA-S

It is produced primarily in the adrenal (stress) glands. Whenever a woman is under any degree of stress, her body faces a choice: it has to decide if it wants to produce normal sex hormones like progesterone and estrogen, or if it wants to produce stress hormones like DHEA-S.
Hormonal acne can even show up just as smaller lesions. These are not quite as angry and painful as full out cysts, and may appear more rash-like or just smaller than typical acne.

  1. Estrogen fights acne.

Estrogen helps promote clear skin. It does this in a number of ways.First, it has the power to off-set high testosterone levels in the blood. Estrogen increases levels of sex-hormone-binding-globulin (SHBG), which in turn binds testosterone and makes it impotent.
Second, the skin has many estrogen receptors in it, so estrogen directly performs a balancing and soothing function at the site of acne.

  1. Progesterone

Progesterone, in high doses, acts as an inflammatory agent, and can cause acne to flare up. Progesterone levels are highest during the days leading up to menstruation, which explains why many women experience outbreaks at this time.
Synthetic progesterone, such as that found in birth control pills, can also cause acne.

How to Get Rid of Acne around Mouth

Quick cure methods include:

  1. Use benzoyl peroxide

Benzoyl peroxide treats acne by primarily unclogging the skin pores. It also kills the bacteria responsible for acne around mouth and other cystic skin lesions.

  1. Place Ice On Your Acne

Ice reduces swelling and constricts the oil glands in your skin. As a result, the excess oil and bacteria are flushed out from the inflamed glands.

  1. Steam Treatment

Steam can open up the skin pores and makes the dirt and bacteria to flow out. When you take the steam treatment, you sweat a lot, which means all the impurities get flushed out.

  1. Apply Lemon Juice

Lemon juice contains citric acid, which renders the juice its antibacterial properties. These help in eliminating the bacteria that cause acne. Lemon juice also possesses astringent properties that constrict the body tissues and expel the excess oil from the skin.

Preventive measures:

  1. Avoid Using Lip Balm

The wax in the lip balm can clog your skin pores, thereby trapping dirt and bacteria every time you use it. This eventually causes acne around mouth. Using lip balm may also spread the acne-causing bacteria. This means you would only be reinfection on yourself each time you use lip balm.

  1. Wash And Wipe Your Mouth After Eating Or Drinking

After you’re done with your meal or evening snack, make it a point to wash your mouth thoroughly. Swish water in your mouth. This is because the crumbs of food residue around your mouth might turn into a breeding ground for bacteria and cause acne breakouts. Also, do wipe your mouth after washing.

  1. Use A Fragrance

Using toothpaste is a must, but using one that contains fragrance is a strict no-no. Never forget this toothpaste that has fragrance also has chemicals. And chemicals aren’t good. They can irritate your skin and cause excess sebum production.

  1. Brush Your Lips

Brushing your lips can have a positive impact on your acne. The practice can also prevent acne breakouts in the future. It will remove the mild gunks sticking to your lips and help eliminate bacteria.

  1. Drink Plenty Of Water

Drinking a lot of water, apart from benefiting you in many other ways, flushes toxins out of the body and cleanses your skin from the inside. Drinking water can also flush out the bacteria present in your mouth.

Cystic Acne around Mouth

This type of acne around mouth occurs when acne bacteria inflames below the skin’s surface, leading to the rupture of nearby hair follicles. This creates a chain reaction in the skin, triggering wider inflammation, spreading of more acne bacteria and more breakouts.
Best tips to treat cystic:

  • Regular exfoliation

Gently exfoliate every other day with a rice-based powder exfoliator. This physical exfoliation helps to buff away bacteria without over drying the skin.”

  • Get in the sun (with SPF)

Spend a few minutes in the sun each day, as long as you’re wearing a non-comedogenic SPF, like an organic mineral powder. The sun’s UV light helps kill bacteria.

  • Find probiotic skincare

Help to balance the body by incorporating probiotics into your routine. Look for cleansers, masques, and moisturizers that contain probiotics. Using these products will regulate bacteria levels at and below the skin’s surface.”

  • And take probiotics internally

Add another layer of protection by taking probiotics internally to help regulate bacterial levels throughout the body.

  • Use cold water

Lastly, wash your face with cold water. The cold water helps to calm inflammation and redness.

Fordyce Spots on Lips: Causes Cure, White Bumps, Cream, Get Rid, Home Remedies, Treatment

Do you have Fordyce spots on your lips? This article contain insights on the causes of Fordyce spots on lips, cures, treatments and home remedies for this condition. You will also learn more about the Fordyce spots cream and white spots and bumps on the lips.

Fordyce Spots Causes

Fordyce spots are also known as Fordyce granules or sebaceous prominence, they are small and raised colored bumps or spots that appears on the skin. They may appear pale red in color or yellow white. They develop in different parts of the body, mainly on the lips, shaft of the penis, scrotum and the labia.
They usually develops on the vermillion border of the lips. Vermillion is the sharp demarcation that separates the color of the lips from the normal skin of you face. They affect both the male and female. They are believed to be caused by the following:

  1. Trapped sebum in the oil glands

This spots develops when the sebum is trapped in the sebaceous glands that does not have a hair. Sebum is a natural oil that keeps the skin supple. In the normal condition, the sebaceous glands opens into a hair follicle that allows the secretion of sebum to the skin surface via the hair shaft.
In this case, there is no hair on the sebaceous gland. This means that there is no way to allow the sebum out of the skin. Therefore it will accumulate and end up making a small bump on the affected skin surface.
The Fordyce spots on lips and other parts are different from a pimple. A pimple occurs in the sebaceous gland that has an opening that is blocked. The bacteria makes away into the pimple, feeds on the accumulated sebum, multiplies and produces toxins that causes inflammation on the affected area.
On our case, the sebaceous prominence are painless and does not produce any discharge since they have no any opening that will allow the bacteria to get in or cause infection. This is a natural occurrence that is harmless on the skin. Any Fordyce spots treatment given is for cosmetic purposes.

  1. Other optional causes
  • Genetic factors. Some people believes that Fordyce spots are caused by certain genes that can be inherited from your family members. More research is needed to determine whether it is true or not.
  • This is a transitional stage from childhood to adulthood. This spots usually develops during the puberty stage due to hormonal changes in the body.

Sebaceous prominence is not cancerous contagious as it was believed by some people in the past. You cannot therefore get infected through body contacts or sexual intercourse. It develops naturally on the skin.

Fordyce Spots Lips

Having some small bumps on the lips and around the genital areas can cause a panic. You may start thinking about sexual transmitted infections. When such painless bumps appears on the lip line, you don’t need to get worried. They may be natural and harmless Fordyce spots.
The Fordyce spots on lips are associated with sebaceous glands that are located in wrong places. They are not associated with any illness or infection. They only create a cosmetic concern. Some people may not be happy having small bumps on the lip line and that’s why they get the various treatments to get rid of these spots.
The oral Fordyce spots are commonly located on the line between the vermillion border and oral mucosa on the upper lip. They can also be found inside the check or buccal mucosa. The affected lip may have many granules or only two or three. The various symptoms that will occur includes:

  • Small bumps or papules on the lips
  • Red, white or pale in color
  • Raised appearance
  • Has a diameter of about 1-3 mm
  • They are painless, non-itchy and has no discharge

If you are not happy with the appearance of these papules. You can use one of the various treatments to get rid of them. The common treatments includes the use of dermatological products such as tretinoin cream, exfoliation scrub, chemical peel or anti-sebum products. You may also try the Fordyce spots lips home treatments.

Fordyce Spots Cure

Fordyce spots are just like the other pimples only that, they develop in wrong places that has no pores to extract out the sebum from the bumps. You may develop a few or countable Fordyce spots on lips or they may appear in a cluster. They may give your lips an ugly look, the following cures may help to get rid of them:

  • Apply tretinoin cream

 This treatment is also used as a cure for acne. When applied on the affected lips, it causes drying that results to peeling. This helps to control the oil glands. After peeling, a new skin will develop that has less spots. This cure will make the spots invisible when used persistently for some time.

  • use non-oil based lip balm

This treatment can alternate with the use of tretinoin cream. It also helps in preventing excessive dryness of the lips as a result of the tretinoin cream. Apply a thin layer on the affected lips, overuse of oil control moisturizers may cause stress to the oil glands which may make the spots bigger.

  • Shave the facial hair on both the lower and upper lip

Shaving the facial hair may help to control the Fordyce spots. This place is where the sebaceous glands are located. Some of them may grow into the wrong places that has no pores to allow the sebum out of the skin.

  • Improve the hygiene around the lips

Keeping your lips clean and hygienic helps to fade away the spots. Just like acne, if proper care is not taken, they are likely to come back even if they had gone. Wash your face 2-3 times a day using soap and warm water to get rid of excessive oil.

  • Apply Accutane

This treatment can also help the Fordyce spots on lips to disappear. This treatment is used in curing acne by drying up the oil glands. When applied on the lips, it may cause cracking and bleeding but the end results will always be good. This treatment has side effects, consult your doctor before taking.

Fordyce Spots on Lips Treatment

As you read earlier, the Fordyce spots are harmless and may not require any treatment. However, some people may not be comfortable with their appearance and they may seek for a cosmetic treatment that includes the following:

  1. Tretinoin cream or gel

This is one of the most common Fordyce lips treatment. It causes drying, peeling and exfoliation on the dead skin of lips. When applied severally, the spots will diminish and eventually becomes invisible to the eyes.
For best results, you are supposed to apply the cream at least 2-3 times a day until you get the positive result. This treatment can also be used in treating other skin blemishes such as acne. It helps in drying off the oil glands that causes acne. Although it may cause some skin irritations and other but it has the best results.

  1. Laser treatment

This is also known as cryosurgery. It is the removal of the Fordyce spots on the lips under very low temperatures. Many people opt for this treatment since it does not cause pain or leave the scars on the affected areas after treatment.
There is also other types of laser that can do Fordyce spots go away. They includes vaporization laser treatment and pulse dye laser treatment among other medications. Your doctor or surgeon will help you in choosing the best treatment.

  1. Chemical peels

Chemical peel can also be used in treating the Fordyce spots on lips. This may involve the use of Trichloroacetic acid in peeling off the skin. In this case, it only requires a superficial peel to remove the epidermis layer of the skin. The oil will be drained and allow the affected area to heal naturally.
The above treatments may leave the affected areas excessively dry. Application of non-oil base lip moisturizers may help to keep them cool. Use the moisturizers in small quantities.

Fordyce Spots Home Treatment

Some of the home remedies to get rid of Fordyce spots have shown positive results. Although they may take longer time to show the results, but they are the safest. You are supposed to try the various remedies until you find the one that works best for these spots. They include the following:

  • Coconut oil

This is one of the best remedy for treatment of Fordyce granules. Coconut oil is a good natural moisturizer. Dehydration or excessive dryness may cause the spots to appear bigger and more visible. After the application of this natural oil, they cool and become visibly reduced. You simply apply 3 times a day until the spots diminishes.

  • Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is known in treating the various skin conditions. When it comes to sebaceous prominence, it always give the expected positive results. It may cause some irritation to the lips when applied directly. It is therefore diluted with some water before the application.
For this case, you mix 3 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water. Use a cotton swab or ball to apply the solution on the affected lips. Allow it to penetrate the lips for 20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water. This should be done for at least twice a week.

  • Apply essential oils

The essentials oils are effective on how to remove Fordyce spots on lips. There are different types of essential oil that includes tea tree oil, jojoba oil, bezoin, pine palamarosa, frankincense, cabreuva, and galbanum oil among others.
The jojoba oil helps in preventing the development of bumps on the lips and other areas of the skin. The essential oils can also be combined to give out the best result. It can be applied on the lips 2-3 times a day.

  • Use a mixture of jojoba oil and argania

A mixture of jojoba oil and argania contains Tocopherol extracts that is effective in eliminating the Fordyce spots. This combination helps in exfoliating the dead cells faster and give rise to new skin that has less visible white marks.

  • Increase consumption of garlic

You should include garlic in your daily diet if you want to get rid of these spots. Garlic has several medical properties that helps in eliminating the bumps on the skin. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that helps it in healing various skin conditions.

Fordyce Spots Cream

Although doctors don’t recommend treatment for Fordyce spots on lips and other parts of the body, you may have the urge to remove these spots. The main reason of getting rid of them is to have a beautiful or handsome look. The various creams that gives the best results includes:

  1. Tretinoin cream

Tretinoin cream is normally used to treat acne and other skin conditions such as keratosis pilaris. This cream is also found to have the ability of treating Fordyce granules. This cream works best when combined with other substances such as alpha hydroxyl acid.
When applied on the affected area, it dries up the oil glands. In this case, when applied on the affected lips, it dries the skin and cause peeling. The bumps will be invisible after healing. Tretinoin cream can be applied 2-3 times a day until the papules disappears.

  1. Isotretinoin cream

This cream is commonly used when the spots are likely to reappear. Although this medication is effective, but it has so many side effects such as eye irritation, skin irritations, nose bleeding, joint aches, hair thinning, poor night vision among others. It is not supposed to be used by pregnant women or when trying to conceive.

White Spots on Lips

A part from the Fordyce spots on lips there are also other possible condition that can cause this condition. Some of the symptoms incudes white small or large patches on the lips, painless and harmless bumps, although they should not be ignored. There are different types of white spots on lips that includes:

  • Fordyce granules
  • Canker sores
  • Herpes
  • Vitiligo
  • Thrush
  • Mucous cyst
  • Lip cancer.

Although some of the white spots on the lips are harmless, there are also others that are harmful and life threatening. You are supposed to visit your doctor right away you start experiencing unusual white spots or bumps on the lips. The doctor will diagnose your condition and recommend for treatment if necessary.

White Bumps on Lips

The white bumps on the lips can result from various things that may be harmless or harmful to your health. Mild conditions such as acne may cause the white bumps on the lips as a result of body hormonal changes or poor skin hygiene.
In other cases, this skin problem can be symptomatic to a serious underlying body condition. The bump may vary in side depending with the cause. It is advisable to visit your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The common cause includes:

  • Fordyce spots on lips
  • Contact dermatitis
  • Acne
  • Cold sores
  • Canker sores
  • Sunburn
  • Oral cancer
  • Skin tags

The bumps may also be accompanied with other symptoms such as pain, itchy skin, inflammations, presence of discharge, bleeding and foul smell. This can make cause problems when drinking or eating food. There are various bump on lips pictures can make you understand better.
Further References;

  1. Fordyce spots: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fordyce_spots
  2. Fordyce spots cure: http://www.steadyhealth.com/topics/fordyce-spots-cure

Severe Chapped Lips: Causes, won’t heal, Corners of Mouth, Vitamin Deficiency, Remedy,Treatment

Do you have chapped lips? What might be the cause? Find more as we explore on the causes of severe chapped lips in adults and kids including vitamin deficiency, dehydration and lip licking among others. You will also learn how to get rid of chapped lips using various home remedies and treatments.

Severe Chapped Lips Causes

Chapped lips is common especially during the winter when the weather is dry and windy. It is also possible to develop this lip problem at any time of the year due to poor lip care practices. Chapped lips is characterized by dryness, cracking, flaking, tenderness, itchiness and soreness of the lips. Here are possible causes that can result to chronic chapped lips:

  1. Allergic reactions

An allergic reaction that causes chapped lips is triggered by an allergen found in lip care products, oral care products, foods or medications. Using lip care products like lip stick that contains propyl gallate or phenyl salicylate are likely to cause an allergic reaction. Other lip care products that contains fragrance, harsh chemicals or flavor can also cause chapped lips.
Toothpaste that contains guaiazulene can also trigger an allergic reaction to your lips and other oral cavities. When shopping for lip care or oral care products, check for their ingredient content and the expiry date to avoid chapped lips.
Any medication that you take may also have some side effects to your body including dry lips. Different medications like Accutane which is used for acne, wrinkles and other skin problems or propranolol used for treating blood pressure can result to severe chapped lips. Consult your doctor or dermatologist if there is any other alternative drug you can use in order to avoid this lip problem.
An allergic reaction is characterized with other symptoms like hives on the lips, itching, skin rash, nasal congestion, swollen lymph nodes, scratchy throat or watery eyes among others. Severe allergic reaction can lead to a condition known as anaphylaxis that requires an emergency medical treatment.

  1. Vitamin deficiency

Different vitamins plays a very important roles in your body. For instance, B-complex vitamins helps to support healthy skin including the lips. Although most of the foods we eat contains plenty of this vitamins, most of them are destroyed when you overcook the foods or due to excessive alcohol consumption.
Digestive track disorders can also lead to poor absorption of vitamins and minerals into your body leading to chapped lips that won’t go away easily. Ensure that you eat plenty of foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals to prevent deficiencies. Alternatively, you can take vitamin supplements to boost its level in your body.

  1. Dehydration

Chapped or dry lips is among the first symptoms to tell you that your body is having insufficient water. Engaging in sporting activities like motor boating exposes your lips or skin to dry wind and ultra violet rays from the sun that water loss from your body leading to dry lips.
It is important to take at least eight glasses of water or more a day to prevent dehydration. Apply a moisturizing lip balm containing a sun protection factor of 15 to protect your lips from dryness and damage from the sun.

  1. Excessive licking of lips

Having a habit of licking your lips excessively when they are dry causes them to become more dehydrated. Saliva does not dehydrate, that is why it cannot quench your thirsty. When you lick your lips, the saliva evaporates with some of the moisture on your lips. A continued cycle of licking will therefore cause severe chapped lips due to dehydration.

  1. Medical conditions

There are various medical conditions that causes your lips to become more sensitive to the sun. Therefore, spending some time outdoors may cause your lips to become dry or chapped easily. It is important to wear a lip balm containing a sun protection factor 15 when having such conditions to avoid damage of your lips.
Other medical conditions like psoriasis, thyroid disease, Down’s syndrome or diabetes can also cause your lips to become chapped. Dry lips may be symptomatic to some of these condition. It is advisable to visit your doctor for diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

  1. Excessive sun exposure

Spending most of your time outdoors without wearing a sunscreen can result to chapped lips. This condition is mostly experienced in kids or children since they spend most of their time outdoors playing with their friends. Before going outdoors ensure to apply a lip balm containing SPF 15 to keep your lips moisturized and protected from the sun.

  1. Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol

Tobacco smoke contains that causes your lips to become dry or chapped. Smoking also increases the chances of getting lip infections that are characterized with dryness among other symptoms. Excessive consumption of alcohol also causes dehydration of your body including lips.

  1. Dry and windy weather conditions

When living in a dry and windy weather conditions, you are likely to have severe chapped lips and corners of the mouth. The dry wind carries away moisture on your lips making them to become dry. It is important to apply a lip balm regularly and wear a scarf to cover your lips.

  1. Food and environmental irritants

Eating spicy, acidic and salty foods when having cracked lips can worsen your condition. Some of the foods that causes irritation includes citrus fruits and tomato source among others. Other environmental pollutants and chemicals can also cause chapped lips.

  1. Vitamin A toxicity

Taking overdose of vitamin A supplements causes toxicity that can lead to dry and cracked lips. Ensure that you are taking the correct dosage of this type of vitamins to avoid toxicity that can cause various skin problems.

Severe Chapped Lips won’t heal

Do you have chapped lips that won’t heal easily? Then you have to find out the underlying cause of your condition before treatment. Chapped lips will heal once the under lying cause is treatment. Apply the following tips if your condition doesn’t heal:

  • Stop smoking or chewing tobacco and consumption of alcohol and focus on treating your damaged lips. The chemical in the tobacco smoke can worsen and prevent your condition from healing.
  • Avoid licking your lips as it can worsen your condition.
  • Consider your diet. Incorporate vitamins and minerals in your diet to prevent deficiencies.
  • Protect your lips from the sun damage.
  • Visit your doctor to determine if vitamin deficiency is the cause of your problem.
  • Find out if your lip or oral care products and foods contains an allergen that triggers an allergic reaction.
  • Consult your doctor to see if it’s the side effects of medications you are taking.
  • Protect your lips from dehydration.
  • Avoid breathing through your mouth to find out if it is the cause of your condition.

Once you will have identified the cause of your chapped lips, it will be easier to treat.

Severe Chapped Lips and Corners of Mouth

Cracked corners of the mouth is also known as angular cheilitis. It is a condition that affects both men and women, although it is not contagious but it causes your mouth to become dark, painful, red, sore and unattractive. In some cases, the splits can bleed when you open your mouth wide. This condition can last up to several month or years when left untreated.
It is important to find out the cause of your cracked mouth corners as it will help you to come out with an effective treatment. This condition is majorly caused by a fungal infection although it can result from other factors that includes the following:

  • Bacterial infections.
  • Chapped lips.
  • Viral infections.
  • Allergic reaction to lip care products, oral care products, certain foods and medication.
  • Excessive dryness of the mouth due to dehydration.
  • Ill-fitting dentures.
  • Autoimmune disorders.
  • Viral infections like cold sores.
  • Vitamin and mineral deficiency.
  • Damage from the sun

Chapped corners of the mouth can become painful especially when eating spicy, acidic, salty and hot foods. This condition can be treated using over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams, prescribed medicines or using home remedy treatments like natural oils.

Severe Chapped Lips Vitamin Deficiency

Vitamin plays very important roles in your body including cell growth, healthy skin and bones. Having health smooth and soft lips means that you have sufficient B-vitamin complex in your body. Deficiency of this vitamins can lead to dry, cracked, scaly, flaky or chapped lips.
Although most of the foods we eat contain these vitamins, most of them are destroyed due to overcooking, excessive consumption of alcohol and having digestive track disorders can also lead to poor absorption of vitamins and minerals in your body. Deficiency of the following vitamins may lead to the above lip problems:
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
This type of vitamins play a very big role in healthy skin. It helps in maintaining collagen that is needed for a smooth and soft skin. Its deficiency is characterized by chapped lips and skin wrinkles or premature aging of the skin. Consuming foods that are rich in vitamin B2 like beef liver, milk, lamb, natural yogurt, mushrooms, spinach, eggs, sun-dried tomatoes, almond and salmon can help restore your condition.
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
This is a type of soluble B-complex vitamin. This means that they are not stored into your body and therefore, you have to eat food rich in niacin daily. Its deficiency is characterized with severe chapped lips and inflamed skin. Foods rich in niacin includes vegetables, fruits, grain products, milk and milk products and meat.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
This vitamin is also essential for healthy development of skin. Deficiency symptoms includes chapped lips, anemia, skin rashes, upset stomach and nerve damage in infants. Food rich in this vitamins includes fish, beef liver, vegetables, fruit and poultry.
Deficiency of iron and zinc minerals can also lead to dry, cracked, scaly and flay lips. Incorporate the above vitamins and minerals in your diet to prevent deficiencies.

Severe Chapped Lips Kids or Child

Chapped lips among children can be a serious condition as compared to adults since they have sensitive lip skin that is still developing. Children can not only experience chapped lips but also the skin surrounding their lips may also be affected.
Both children and adults can experience chapped lips for the same reason such as sun damage, vitamins deficiency, cold weather, wind exposure, dehydration, frequent lip licking, iron deficiency, allergic reactions, and exposure to environmental irritants and from conditions like Kawasaki disease and diabetes among others. However, children are likely to have chapped lips due to the following conditions:
Lip licker’s dermatitis. This condition is characterized by red, scaly, flaky and dry patches at the lips and the skin bordering the lips. Severe condition can cause lip cracking, bleeding and irritation. This type of dermatitis is caused when children lick their lips. The saliva causes skin irritation and the child may continue licking in order to relive the irritation and hence worsening the condition.
Dehydration is another common cause of severe chapped lips among toddlers, kids or children. Dehydration is characterized by dry and cracked lips among children. This conditions happens when your child doesn’t take enough fluids or due to vomiting and diarrhea.
Apart from dry and cracked lips, dehydration can cause fever, less frequent urination, fatigue, sunken eyes and dry skin. Your child may also experience dehydration of lips when living dry, windy and cold weather. Licking of lips also encourages evaporation of moisture and hence resulting to chapped lips.
Kawasaki disease is also an infection that commonly affects children under the age of 14. This disease is characterized with dry, cracked and red lips that bleeds easily. This disease affects the walls of blood vessels throughout the body.
It is also characterized with other symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, red eyes, red spots on tongue, swollen hands and feet and skin rash. The exact cause of this condition is unknown although some theories links it to bacteria, virus and other environmental factors. This condition normally resolves on its own although you can take your child to a health care provider for diagnosis and treatment.

How to Get Rid of Severe Chapped Lips, treatment

Depending on the cause of your chapped lips, there are various tips you can use to get rid of these lip condition. They includes the following:

  • Stay away from foods and products that triggers allergic reaction

Avoid using lip care products like lip stick, gloss or balm that contains harsh chemicals that triggers an allergic reaction. When your body is prone to allergic reactions, it is important to stay away from food triggers like peanuts, eggs, milk, soy, tree nuts and shellfish among others. You can also consult your doctor about the side effects of any medicines before using.

  • Keep your lips moisturized all the time

Dehydration is the major cause of chapped lips, it is therefore advisable to keep your lips moisturized by applying petroleum jelly or a lip balm. It prevents evaporation of moisture from your lips as well as keeping them soft and smooth.

  • Drink plenty of water

As you read earlier, dehydration is the main cause of severe chapped lips. Taking plenty of fluids helps to combat this problem. It is recommended to take at least 8 glasses of water a day. However, the amount of water to take depends on the activity you are doing and the environment among other factors.
Apart from keeping your lips soft, water also helps to flush out toxins from your body. To keep your lips hydrated, avoid extreme temperatures and apply a moisturizing lip balm.

  • Use humidifier at night

Using heaters indoors during the winter causes the air to dry out. Installing a humidifier in your room can help to moisturize the air and hence keeping your lips moist.

  • Protect your lips from the sun

When going outdoors in dry, windy and cold weather, wear a lip balm containing SPF 15. It helps to keep your lips moisturized as well as protecting them from ultra violet rays from the sun. You can also cover your lips with a scarf to keep them protected.

  • Avoid breathing through the mouth

Breath through the nose, breathing through the mouth can make your lips to become dry by causing evaporation of the moisture.

  • Avoid picking your lips

Do not pick the flaky skin on your lips, it may worsen your condition. Instead you should clean them with a cotton ball soaked in warm water and apply a moisturizing oil or a lip balm.

  • Avoid licking your lips

Excessive licking of lips causes dehydration. The saliva evaporates with moisture leaving your lips dry. Excessive licking will therefore cause severe chapped lips. Instead of licking them, drink some water and apply a moisturizing oil or lip balm.

  • Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet can help to prevent vitamins and mineral deficiencies that is among the causes of chapped lips. Your diet should contain plenty of vegetables and fruits to boost the vitamin level in your body. Other foods to include in your diets are poultry, meat, eggs, milk, milk products and fish.

  • Avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol

Tobacco smoke contains toxic chemicals that can cause irritation of your lips. It may also cause various lip infection that can result to chapped lips. On the other hand, excessive consumption of alcohol causes dehydration of your body including the lips.

Severe Chapped Lips Home Remedy

Cracked, dry or flaky lips is a problem that is commonly experienced during dry, windy and cold weather. However, it can also occur at any time due to various underlying body conditions. This lip problem can be painful and unattractive and you may want to get rid of it fast.
Although there are various commercial products you can use to treat chapped lips, they may be expensive or may have some side effects after treatment. Instead of going for such products, you can save your coins and use the following effective home remedies for chapped lips:

  1. Exfoliate your lips

This treatment helps to get rid of dead skin cells and other impurities while exposing a fresh skin that will start to heal. This treatment is used prior to applying any ointment to initiate the healing process. However, it is important to be gentle while exfoliating. Aggressive exfoliation can cause bleeding or can make your lips to become hypersensitive.  There are various methods you can use to exfoliate, they include:

  • A mixture of sugar and honey. Mix two tablespoon of sugar with one tablespoon of honey and stir well to make a paste. Apply the paste on your lips and allow it to sit for 15 minutes before scrubbing gently using your fingers. Rinse it off with warm water. Repeat this treatment twice a week to obtain the best results.
  • Using a soft bristle toothbrush. After brushing your teeth, you can spend some time too in exfoliating your lips using the same brush. Just ensure it is clean by rinsing it thoroughly with warm water before use.
  1. Use aloe Vera gel

Aloe Vera has healing and anti-inflammatory properties that helps to treat severe chapped lips as well as relieving pain caused by cracked lips. Although it can create unpleasant taste but it is an effective treatment. To use this remedy, you simply extract a gel from an aloe Vera leaf and apply it directly to your lips. Apply twice daily for better results.

  1. Apply natural oils

To keep your lips moisturized, there are various natural oils that you can use. They help to repair your lips as well as preventing them from further damage. They includes coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil, cocoa butter, jojoba oil and rosehip oil. Apply a thin layer in the evening before going to bed and in the morning before going outdoors.

  1. Use cucumber

Cucumber helps to soothe and heal cracked and painful lips. To use this treatment, cut a cumber into slices and rub one piece onto your lips. Ensure that the juice penetrates into the cracks for 15 minutes and then you rinse with cool water. Repeat this treatment 2 to 3 times daily until your lips improves.

  1. Rose petals for severe chapped lips

Are you suffering from chapped lips and yet you have a rose flower in your garden? You can easily find the solution to your lip problem within your flower garden by using the rose petals. This treatment helps to keep your lips moisturized as well as enhancing their color.
To use this treatment, you simply obtain a handful of rose petals and wash them thoroughly. Mix the petals with milk cream or glycerin and mash to form a paste. Apply the paste to your lips 2-3 times a day, you can also use it overnight for best results.

  1. Milk cream

Milk cream contains a high fat content that makes it the best product for chapped lips. It keeps your lips moisturized as well as initiating the healing process of cracked lips. Obtain a fresh milk cream and apply on your lips. Allow it to sit on your lips for 15 minutes and then rinse it off using a cotton ball soaked in warm water. Repeat this treatment daily until you obtain the positive results.

  1. Lemon juice

Lemon juice is an effective treatment on how to get soft lips fast. It also helps to lighten your lips as well as nourishing the sensitive skin. To make this treatment more effective, you simply mix 1 tablespoon of milk cream with 3 drops of fresh lemon juice. Apply the mixture daily on your lips before going to bet and rinse it off in the morning before applying your normal lip moisturizer.

  1. Green tea bag for severe chapped lips

This home remedy treatment was used from traditionally in treating dry lips. Wet green tea bag helps to keep your lips moisturized as well as initiating the healing process of any damages. Simply wet a green tea bag and press it against your damaged lips for 5 minutes. Apply it 2-3 times daily until your lips becomes soft and smooth.

  1. Apply glycerin

Glycerin is an effective home remedy treatment for dry and chapped lips. It can also be used together with other remedies for best results. Mix the glycerin with either milk cream, honey or rose petal and mash or mix thoroughly before applying of the affected lips. Repeat the treatment 2-3 times daily for best results.

  1. Apply honey

Honey has both antibacterial and healing properties that helps to treat chapped lips. It is also an effective moisturizer when applied on dry lips. You simply apply raw organic honey directly on to your chapped lips. Alternatively, you can mix with glycerin and apply on your lips.
Further reading;

  1. Possible conditions for chronic chapped lips: http://www.livestrong.com/article/322474-possible-conditions-for-chronic-chapped-lips/
  2. How to get rid of chapped lips: http://www.vaseline.us/skin-health-care/how-to-get-rid-of-chapped-lips.html
  3. Why are my lips chapped? http://www.webmd.com/beauty/lips-smile/end-chapped-lips

How to Lighten Dark Lips, Naturally, Overnight, Instantly

Why is my Lips Turning Black? Get insights on how to lighten dark lips naturally, instantly fast at home. The post explores on how to whiten dark lips skin using natural ingredients and various home remedies.

/Why is my Lips Black?

The thickness of the skin covering the lips is less compared to that on the rest parts of the face. The lips tend to be naturally rosy or pink due to the underlying tissues. There is also few amount of melanin at this part of the body compared to the rest.
What causes dark lips may depend on a number of factors such as mechanical, skin disorders, chemical or lifestyle factors. Among the main causes of dark lips and discoloration include the following:
Excessive exposure of lips to sunlight triggers production of melanin, smoking and chewing tobacco and high intake of caffeinated products. Allergic reactions and skin related conditions such as jaundice, dermatitis, lentigo, anemia and cyanosis.
Low quality skin lightening products and cosmetics can also cause dark upper lips. For some individuals, hormonal imbalances can also contribute to a dark skin formation around the mouth. Despite that, there are ways on how to get soft kissable lips you can utilize.

How to lighten Dark Lips Naturally at Home

There are different and many ways on how to lighten dark lips. Depending on the effectiveness and safety, you can opt for one to lighten your lips. Natural ingredients and at home products can also be effective lip lighteners.
Ideas on how to get rid of dark lips naturally will help you in saving on cost as well as side effects of using drugstore or over the counter skin lightening products. Some of the natural ingredients discussed in the post are effective in lightening dark lips instantly fast.

Home Remedies for Dark Lips and How to Make Dark Lips Lighter

Here are some of the best home remedies for darker lip skin.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is effective in correcting various skin blemishes. It is well known for the treatment of dark spots on the face, removal of acne scars, and also for skin lightening. Similarly lemon is suitable for lightening dark lips instantly.
To utilize this process on how to lighten dark lips naturally you need to obtain a fresh lemon fruit. Simply squeeze the juice and apply on your lips before getting to bed.
Lemon can also be used in the making a lip scrub. Exfoliation is one of the best ways to remove dead skin cells. To make your natural lip exfoliant from lemon, obtain a slice and squeeze the juice into a small amount of sugar.
Mix the two ingredients and apply on your lips using a finger. Rub gently in a circular motion to avoid skin injuries. Repeat the process every before to go to bed and you will notice a positive change after a period of one to two month.

Rose Extract

Are you wondering how you can make your lips pink? Having a rosy like lips is stunning. You can lighten your darker lips using rose water mixed with little amount of honey. Scrub your lips in a gentle manner on a daily routine you will begin to notice positive changes.
Alternatively, soak rose petals in a small amount of milk and mix to form a paste. To make it more effective add few drops of honey. Apply before you get to bed. This is the best way on how to get soft kissable lips instantly.

Natural Sugar

Sugar granules have a property to exfoliate skin hence removing dead cells that are naturally dark. To use this method of dark lip treatment, take two spoon full of granulated sugar and add little water to result with a thick paste.
Mixing sugar, honey and lemon juice also forms an effective scrub that can help you attain a smooth, soft skin on the face and lips.

Pomegranate

This ingredient is effective in lightening dark lips. It also moisturizes and keeps it hydrated all day. Application of pomegranate daily is the most ideal way on how to get rid of dark lips naturally. To make your paste, mix a small amount of crushed pomegranate with rose water and add little milk cream.
You can also mix pomegranate juice with beetroot juice or carrot juice for the lightening your lips instantly overnight. Beetroot is known to poses natural bleaching property. This is the best way to go on how to lighten dark lips.

Cucumber Slices

This is also a natural lip lightener. It is also suitable for general skin lightening and removing of dark circles around the eyes. To use, obtain cucumber slices and rub gently against your lips. Before getting to bed is the best time since your lips gets enough time to absorb the juice.

Potatoes Slices

Just like cucumber, potatoes are suitable for minimizing skin darkness. Obtain a slice of potatoes and rub against your lips for approximately five minutes. Regular application guarantees soft naturally pink lips in a short period of time.

Almond Oil

Almond oil is good for moisturizing, softening and lightening dark lips. To make an effective dark skin lip lightener, mix few drops of almond oil with honey. You can also use castor oil following a gentle massage routine. Coconut oil is also an alternative.

Berries

Berries contain antioxidant property besides minerals and vitamins suitable for skin lightening around your lips. You can use raspberries or strawberries juice mixed with petroleum jelly.

Honey

Honey protects your lips against bacterial infections and sunburn due to UV radiations from the sun. It also moisturizes your lips making them to turn from dark to pink hence regarded suitable for using in treatments on how to get pink lips.

How to Get Rid of Dark Lips Overnight

Here are ways on how to lighten dark lips fast:

  1. Petroleum jelly application: Lip balms help in the healing and protection of chapped dry lips. Apply Vaseline regularly before going to bed at night. In a day you can also apply a thin layer of this product since it is effective in protecting your lips against harsh environmental conditions such as cold, UV rays and wind.
  2. Application of the best lip balm: Moisturize you lips daily in the morning by using a moisturizing lip balm. It should be used along with any other lip care product you uses such as lipstick, lip gloss or lip stain. While choosing the lip balm ensure the ingredients are gentle on your lips and they are also not allergic to your body. Examples of best lip balm you can try include: Nivea, Banana Boat, Burt’s Bees, Carmex, Softlips and Blistex among others.
  3. Avoid application of lip care products with fragrances, dyes or flavors:Homemade lip exfoliators are best used in the scrubbing of lips since they are all natural. There are also lip balms that are made from natural extracts. Synthetic products might contain chemical elements that not only irritate lips but also make them chapped and dry. Most of the lip products you should use must have at least SPF 15 to protect your lips against UV radiations and sun burn damages.
  4. Apply the best moisturizing lipstick for your skin tone: Learn how to get soft lips by application of a correct lipstick that ensures your lips are moisturized all day long. There are favorable lip balms and lipsticks that contain natural lip effective ingredients such as Cocoa butter, Coconut oil and Olive oils which are essential ingredients for protecting your lips.
  5. Lip exfoliation: Use your best lip exfoliator in the removal of dead skin from your lips. There are various ways on how to exfoliate lips and mastering such techniques will make you get the super lustrous lips you have been dreaming of.
  6. Drinking Water: This is the best way to ensure your body remains hydrated. Hot or too cold weather conditions can easily dehydrate your body due to high metabolism reactions. Lips contain the thinnest skin and they will easily become dry and chapped. However drinking sufficient amount of water will save you from this lip condition.
  7. Avoid licking your lips: Many people are tempted to lick their lips when they feel an irritation or dryness. When you feel the urge, it is recommended that you apply a chapstick or a thin layer of Vaseline for guys. Obtain your favorite brand at drugstores such as Walgreens and CVS and pocket friendly cost.

How to Get Rid of Dark Lips Naturally Fast

Here are some of the ingredients you can use to whiten dark lips fast.
Baking Soda and Water Mixture: Add a small amount of water to the baking soda and stir the mixture. Using a toothbrush or you finger, apply the paste in a gentle circular motion. Finalize by application of a moisturizing lip balm, Vaseline, Coconut Oil or Olive Oil. Baking soda is a natural abrasive and will make you get baby soft lips overnight.
A Mixture of Lemon, Castor Oil and Glycerin: Mix the three ingredients in a bowl and thoroughly stir to mix. Apply the paste formed on the lips before bed time using your finger or a toothbrush. Lemon possess a healing property that will treat any chapped lips. Oil helps in protecting the lips by forming a barrier. Glycerin is added since it is a moisturizer.
Mixture of Rose Petals and Fresh Raw Milk: Soak some rose petals in a bowl containing raw milk. After a few minutes, stir the mixture to form a paste. Apply the paste on your lips and take 3 to 5 minutes before washing with warm water. Apply some lip balm or moisturizer for soft lustrous color lips.

How to Get Rid of Dark Lips in a Week

You can lighten your dark lips in one week using the formula below:

Sugar, Honey and Olive Oil Mixture

This is the most suitable recipe of all the methods on how to lighten dark lips. The results are instant and long term.
Naturally sugar is an abrasive and it is the best at home ingredient suitable for lip exfoliation. When sugar is mixed with natural honey and olive oil, the paste not only removes the dead skin from the chapped lips but also heals and moisturizes at the same time. This is however the best homemade lip exfoliator you can never go wrong with.
Honey is medicinal in nature and is used in curing of many diseases. This feature makes it suitable in promoting healing of flaky lips. It is also a natural moisturizer hence keeping your lips hydrated all day and night long.
Olive is a type of edible oil and it is added to the mixture to help in creating a protective barrier. Oil however ensures your lips are protected from excessive sunlight, cold and other factors that leads to drying and chapping of lips.

Sugar Lip Scrub Homemade Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon natural honey
  • Small cup
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil, sweet almond oil or sunflower oil
  • 2 teaspoons granulated white sugar
  • 1 to 2 drops essential oil (optional)
  • Lemon juice (optional)
  • Cotton balls
  • Moisturizer or lip balm

Procedure

  1. Place the 1 teaspoon full of natural honey in a small sterile cup. Gently warm the honey in for five seconds in your microwave.
  2. Add 1 teaspoon full of olive oil, or almond or sunflower oil
  3. Add 2 teaspoons full of granulated brown or white sugar and stir to mix.
  4. You can add a drop of lemon juice if you feel like to create a soothing effect.
  5. If you desire you can also add few drops of essential oil such as spearmint or lemon flavored oil for a soothing scent.
  6. With clean hands apply the paste using a finger in a circular motion for 2 minutes
  7. Wipe the sugar scrub off the lips using the clean cotton ball and rinse with warm water.
  8. Finalize by application of your best lip moisturizer or balm
  9. Repeat the same for 2 times a week and your lips will be silky soft after one to two months.
  10. Store your excess homemade lip exfoliator in a closed container and keep in fridge for future

How to Cure Black Lips

Lips can appear black due to various reasons as discussed above. But you can effectively cure dark lips using the following tips:

  • Always scrub your lips gently using a natural sugar lip scrub, toothbrush or drugstore lip exfoliant. Lips are delicate and forceful scrubbing can damage its skin.
  • Avoid strong lip glosses and lipsticks since they contain fragrances that can damage the soft skin on the lips.
  • Before going to bed cleanse off all the traces of cosmetics from your lips to give the skin on the lips suitable time to heal and rejuvenate.
  • Before going to bed moisturize your lips with the help of some clarified butter to prevent it from drying and cracking.

Itchy Lips with Bumps, Dry, Burning, Swollen, Rash, Allergic Reaction, Get Rid

Do you have itchy, swollen, bumpy or dry lips? What might be the cause and how can you get rid of this lip conditions? Get more as we explore on the causes of swollen, burning, dry and itchy lips. You will also learn how to get rid of these lip conditions.

Itchy Lips Causes

Itchy lips may not be a serious condition although it can become swollen, dry and bumpy. It can also be characterized with other symptoms like rash, blistering, hives, redness, dryness and peeling. However, it should worry your when the itchiness results from an infection or an allergic reaction. There are various causes that may result to this lip condition. Some of them includes the following:

  1. Allergic reaction

Itchy and swollen lips commonly results from an allergic reaction from various allergens found in the lip care products, oral care products, food, pollen grain and medication. An allergic reaction is characterized with other symptoms that includes sneezing, runny nose, swollen lymph nodes, nausea and hives.
Apart from the lips, an allergic reaction symptoms can also affect other parts of your body especially inside the cheeks, tongue, mouth, face, eyes, nose and throat. The common foods that may result to an allergic reaction includes mushrooms, eggs, strawberries, fish and nuts among others.
Some chemicals found in lip care products such as lipstick, Chap Stick, lip gloss and lip balm may also results to an allergic reaction when applied on the lips. Some people are also allergic to medicines like penicillin and can develop severe allergic reaction condition known as anaphylaxis that requires a medical treatment.

  1. Vitamin B12 deficiency

Deficiency or inadequate vitamin B12 into your body can result to various symptoms like lip itching, soreness, cracking and easy bleeding, sore tongue and bleeding gums. Although these type of vitamin is found in most of foods we take, they can be destroyed due to overcooking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Poor digestive system and other autoimmune disorders can lead to poor absorption of vitamins and minerals into your body. To avoid deficiencies, take plenty of foods rich in vitamin B12 like poultry, fish, meat, dairy products and other sea foods. You may be required to take vitamin b12 supplements or injection when having severe deficiency.

  1. Itchy lips infections

There are different bacterial, fungal and viral infections that can result to lip itching and swelling. They results to various symptoms like itchiness, rash, swelling, blistering, dryness, cracking and peeling of lips. Some of the infections includes the following:

  • Cold sores

Cold sores are also referred to as fever blisters. It is a viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus type 1. It causes itchiness around your lips prior to the appearance of fluid-filled blisters. It is a highly contagious infection that spreads from one person to the other through direct contact with blisters during kissing or when having oral sex
The sores normally heals on their own within 7-10 days. This infection has no treatment, however taking anti-viral medicines like acyclovir helps to alleviate the symptoms and speeds up the healing process.

  • Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can also affect your lips. This infection is characterized by itchy lips, redness, tenderness of the skin and swollen lips

  • Kawasaki disease

This is a condition that causes inflammation in the walls of medium sized arteries in the whole body. It is characterized with various symptoms like high fever, itchiness and peeling of lips. Children are prone to this condition although it can affect anybody.

  1. Sun damage

Over-exposure of your lips and skin to sunlight can lead to sun poisoning that causes itchy, dry and cracked lips. This condition normally affects the lower lips most as compared to the upper lips. It is important to protect your lips from the harmful sun rays by wearing a lip balm containing sunscreen.

  1. Dry and windy weather conditions

Moving from a cool to dry and windy weather and vice versa can lead to itchy lips. This mainly occurs as a result of inadequate moisture on your lips. Moisture plays a very important role in softening and smoothening of your lips and skin.
It is important to apply your moisturizing lip balm 3 times a day when in a dry and windy weather. You can also use natural moisturizers like olive oil, jojoba oil, coco butter and aloe Vera gel among others to keep your lips moist.

  1. Stings and bites from insects and animals

Itchy and swollen lips can also result from insects and animal bites. They inject venom into your body that triggers itchiness and other symptoms. The common insects that can cause this condition includes bees, red ants, mosquitos and spiders.

  1. Exposure to environmental irritants

Does your lips itch after coming in contact with certain chemicals? Exposing your lips to environmental irritants like chemicals, pollutants, smoke and dust can result to itchiness. Some of the irritants like chemicals cause physical burning of your lips while others like dust causes excessive dehydration.

  1. Itchy lips cancer

Suffering from oral cancer can also result to itchiness of your lips. Oral cancer is characterized with other symptoms like easy bleeding, soreness and redness. Consult your doctor immediately for screening when you notice the above symptoms. The chances of a successful treatment are higher when this condition is discovered early

  1. Trauma or injuries to the lips

Physical injuries to the lips can cause them to become itchy. The common injuries normally results burns from eating hot foods without checking the temperature, lip biting and irritations from ill-fitting dentures.

  1. Other causes of itchy dry lips includes

Medical conditions, vitamin A toxicity, medication and medical conditions. Remember to visit your doctor for treatment when the itchiness becomes persistence or is accompanied with other symptoms like redness, swellings, hives and excessive dryness.

Itchy Dry Lips

Itchy lips and dryness are mainly due to dehydration or over exposure to sun, wind or cold air. Lips are more sensitive as compared to other parts of your body. They may lose more moisture as compared to other parts of your body exposed to sunny, windy or cold air weather.
The skin covering your lips becomes tight, dry and may crack when exposed to dry and windy weather. However, it is important to avoid picking off the dry or flaky skin as it may worsen your condition or cause your lips to bleed.
Licking your lips with tongue also causes dehydration. Saliva evaporates faster and leaves your lips more dehydrated than before. Instead you should take plenty of water to keep your body including the lips hydrated. Take at least eight glasses of water a day.
It is also important to apply a lip balm when having itchy dry lips. It helps in moisturizing and restoring your soft lips. Use a lip balm that contains petroleum, bees wax or natural oils like jojoba oil, olive oil, coco butter. Natural remedies like aloe Vera and milk cream are also effective in moisturizing dry lips.
Apply a lip balm containing sun protection factor of at least 15 to protect your lips against the damage from ultra violet rays. However, it is not recommended to use a lip balm containing fragrance, flavor or dye as it can cause irritation to your lips.

Itchy Lips with Bumps

Itchy and bumpy lips are discomforting and can make it difficult to eat or drink. The itchy bumps can appear on the lower lip, upper lip or both lips. The bumps usually vary in size from tiny lesions to relatively large depending on the cause. There are several things that can result to itchy and bumpy lips, they include the following:

  1. Cold sores

Cold sores are also known as fever blisters, it is a viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus 1. This infection causes tiny, itchy fluid-filled blisters to appear on your lips. It can occur as a single blister but usually appears as a group of small blisters in one center. The blisters normally breaks, forms a crusting and heals within 1-2 weeks without scarring.
This is a highly contagious infection that easily spreads from one person to the other through direct body contact with blisters when kissing or sharing utensils. It is characterized with tingling and itching of the affected area prior to appearance of blisters that normally oozes and form crusting. The other symptoms includes fever, headache, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, painful gums and muscle aches.

  1. Acne

Itchy lips with a bump can also be an indication of a pimple. Poor skin care practices can lead to clogged pores that results into a pimple. Other factors like hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause can lead to pimples on your lip line.
Popping such premature pimples can lead to other symptoms like irritation, inflammation, itchiness and redness among others. It is therefore important to avoid popping them when they are still premature. Consider cleaning your skin and using natural remedies to cure the pimples.

  1. Bacterial infections

Given that your mouth contains numerous bacteria and other pathogenic micro-organisms, they can enter into your lips through the cracks to cause an infection. Other sources of bacterial infections includes using infected chapstick tubes and sharing or lip care products between several people. The infection can lead to itchy bumps and other symptoms to appear on your lips.

  1. Sunburn

Over-exposure of your lips to sunrays can lead to sunburn lip blisters. This happens especially when you expose your lips to the sun rays without wearing a lip balm containing sunscreen or other protections like a hat. Sunburn blisters normally results to peeling of your lips.

  1. Allergic reactions

Lip care products like lip stick, gloss and balm that contains fragrance, flavor, dry, harsh chemicals and other allergens can trigger an allergic reaction that can result to itchy and bumpy lips. Many people are allergic to lip sticks that contains mica and titanium. When shopping for lip care products, check the ingredients to avoid those that causes an allergic reaction.

Swollen Itchy Lips

Itchy and swollen lips can result from various conditions. Injury is the main cause of lip swelling and itchiness. Lip biting or eating hot foods and drinks without checking the temperature can cause injuries or trauma to your lips.
Allergic reaction from foods, lip care products and medicines is also characterized with itchy and swollen lips. Avoid eating foods and using products that contains an allergen. A severe allergic reaction may require a medical treatment.
Angioedema is also a condition that is characterized by swelling of the tissues under the skin including the lips. This condition can also affect other parts of your body including around the eyes, feet, hands or genitals. Angioedema is caused by an allergic reaction with foods and other allergens.
Stomatitis and lip infections can cause your mouth and lips to become swollen, inflamed and itchy. This can cause discomfort when eating and talking. Most of the lip infections are caused by bacteria, fungi and virus. Such infections includes fever blisters or cold sores, canker sores, cellulitis an angular stomatitis.
Sunburned lips is also among the major causes of swollen and chapped lips. overexposure to the ultra violet rays from the sun causes damage to your lips and also increases the chances of developing life threatening conditions like lip cancer.
Swollen and itchy lips can also result from deficiency of vitamins and minerals into your body. Swollen lip corners is a sign of severe deficiency of vitamin B12 in your body. Although most of the foods that we eat contains this type of vitamin, they are destroyed by overcooking and excessive consumption of alcohol. Digestive track disorders can also lead to poor absorption of this vitamins.

Yeast Infection Lips

Oral thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by candida fungus or yeast. Apart from the lips or mouth, it can also affect other parts of your body like vaginal yeast infection in women. Although this infection can affect anyone, it’s commonly experienced by young children (infants, toddlers and babies), older people and individuals with weak body immune system.
It is normal for your moth to contain small amount of candida fungus and other bacteria. These fungus and bacteria are normally controlled by your body when you are healthy.
However, your body immune system can become weakened by certain medical conditions, medications and stress. This may give the fungus candida an ample time to overgrow in your mouth and spread up your lips. It is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • White patches or plaques and sores on the corners of the mouth
  • Itchy lips and burning of the affected areas
  • Dryness or lack of moisture on the lips
  • Mild yeast infection is painless while severe infection may cause difficulties when eating and drinking.
  • Severe infection can affect the taste

The following factors increases the risk of developing yeast infection on your lips:

  • Wearing dentures that are not kept clean, ill-fitting or not removed during the night.
  • Being a baby due to weak immune system.
  • Long term use of anti-biotic medicines that weakens your immune system.
  • Having body conditions like diabetes and HIV aids.
  • Lack of certain vitamins and minerals.
  • Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol.
  • Overuse of anti-bacterial mouthwash.
  • Severe body conditions like anemia.
  • Use of steroids or inhalers.
  • Weak immune system

Yeast infection is easily treated by using antifungal medicines, however it can be difficult to control the symptoms when having a weak immune system. The antifungal medicines are usually taken for 1 to 2 weeks to treat this infection. The doctor may have a different treatment approach depending on the cause and severity of the infection.

How to Get Rid of Itchy Lips Remedy

Before trying to get rid of itchy or scaly lips, it is important to find out the cause for effective treatment. The following tips and treatments are effective in preventing and treating this lip condition depending on the cause:

  • Drink enough of water

Water plays an important role of hydrating and removing impurities from your body including the lips. Having enough water in your body helps your lips to retain moisture that helps to prevent dryness that can result to itchiness. Ensure to take at least eight glasses of water or more a day.

  • Change your lip care products

Using lip care products like lip stick, gloss or balm that contain harsh chemicals, fragrance, flavor or dye can lead to dryness and itchiness of your lips. Such products can also lead to an allergic reaction that can trigger the itchiness. Discontinue the use of such products and go for natural products like olive oil, coco butter and jojoba oil among others.

  • Eat a balanced diet

Eating a balanced diet helps to prevent and treat dry itchy lips vitamin deficiency. Deficiency of vitamin B12 and folic are the major causes of itchy and dry lips. Ensure that your diet contains plenty of vegetables, fruits, poultry, meat, eggs, milk and milk products, fish, shellfish and cheese to prevent deficiencies.

  • Apply sunscreen before going outdoors

Apply a lip balm containing sunscreen when going to spend several hours outdoors on a sunny day. Alternatively, you can wear a hat to prevent your face and lips from sun poisoning. It is also a better option to minimize the time you spend outdoors especially on a sunny day.

  • Apply aloe Vera on your lips

Aloe Vera is an effective remedy for itchy burning lips. It helps to moisturize your lips as well as alleviating the itchiness. Extract a gel from an aloe Vera leaf and apply directly to your lips. Use this remedy 2-3 times a day until the itchiness is relieved.

  • Petroleum jelly for itchy lips

Itchy and dry lips as a result of dry and windy weather can be treated and prevented by applying a petroleum jelly like Vaseline. It helps to retain your moist lips by preventing evaporation. This treatment is also effective on how to get soft lips.

  • Avoid foods that triggers an allergic reaction

Stay away from foods that triggers an allergic reaction. Foods like milk, peanuts, eggs, soy, tree nuts, wheat, fish and shellfish causes most of the allergic reaction. If the reaction is severe or caused by insects or animal bites, take antihistamine medicines to rectify your problem.

  • Avoid alcohol consumption

Alcohol causes dehydration of your body and lips. As you read earlier, dehydration is among the major cause of itchy, dry or cracked lips. Alcohol also contain harmful chemicals that can damage your lips and other body organs. Excessive consumption of alcohol can also interfere with absorption of certain vitamins into your body.

  • Clean your lips when you come from outdoors

Wash your face and lips with clean water after coming in from outdoors. It helps to remove environmental pollutants like dust and other irritants that can cause itchiness. After cleaning your lips, apply a moisturizer to keep them moist.

  • Avoid smoking tobacco

Smoking tobacco causes excessive dryness of your lips. Tobacco smoke also contains toxins that can irritate your lips, it also increases the chances of developing life threatening conditions like oral cancer that causes itchiness.

  • A mixture of honey and almond oil for itchy lips

Before going to bed, apply a mixture of honey and almond oil on your lips. Honey has a natural soothing effect that will help to relieve the itchiness while almond oil helps to moisturize. To use this remedy, mix 1 tablespoon of honey with 3 drops of almond oil and mix well before applying on your lips.

  • Consult your doctor for treatment

In case of a lip infection, consult your healthcare provider for treatment. He or she will diagnose your condition to determine the exact cause of your infection. You may be required to use antibacterial, antifungal or antifungal drugs to cure your condition.
Further Reading

  1. Allergies causing lips to itch: http://www.livestrong.com/article/260688-allergies-causing-lips-to-itch/
  2. Sore or dry lips: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/dry-lips/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Snake Bite Piercing, Cost, Pain, Healing info, Care

What is the meaning of snake bite piercing? How much does it cost and is it painful? Find more as we explore on the meaning, cost, jewelry and aftercare practices of this type of body piercing. You will also learn from the various pictures we have included in this post.

Snake Bite Piercing Meaning & Info

This type of body piercing consists of two separate lower lip piercing one on either sides. It is usually done at the same time as a single piercing. This is a popular type body piercing that can be done on the lip, tongue, eye brows or cheeks.
Snake bite lip piercing originated from some African cultures and Aboriginal tribes of Australia. Traditionally, it was associated with lesbians or bisexual. Currently, it is commonly done by young men and women to look more attractive and sexy. After piercing, there are various jewelries you can use. However, the commonly used are labret studs and captive bead rings.
This type of piercing normally heals faster just like any other type of lip piecing. Most of the lip piercing normally take 1 to 3 month to heal completely. However, you need to be very careful to avoid the chances of an infection since the mouth contains numerous bacteria.
When intending to have this type of body piercing, it is recommended to look for a professional piercer who has enough knowledge, skills and experience in body piercings. He or she should be able to operate in a clean environment to reduce the chances of an infection. The piercer should also be a certified and holds a certificate from the relevant authority.
Before making an appointment with your professional piercer, it is important to know that there are various risk that are created by snake bite piercing on both the locations where it is placed. The jewelry is placed close to the teeth and gum. It can scratch or damage the gum or teeth leading to a gum infection or a tooth decay.
Tooth fracture, enamel erosion and gum irritations are the major risks you are likely to encounter after having snake bite lip piercing. Avoid playing with the jewelry as it increases the above risks.
A good piercer will be able to reduce the risks involved in this type of lip piercing. He or she also ensures there is a proper alignment of the two piercing. The piercings should have an equal distance from the center of the lip. A poor piercer can place one piercing slightly above or lower that the other and you may end up not liking it.
What happens during the snake bite lip piercing procedure? Once you have been approved by your parents or religion to have this type of piercing, the piercer will perform the following procedure:

  • Prior to the procedure, the professional piercer will clean both the inner and outer surface of your lip with an antiseptic solution.
  • He or she will also sterilize all the piercing instruments including the needle and jewelry. The piercer will thoroughly clean hand and wear gloves to prevent any bacterial infection.
  • The professional piercer will ask the location you want the piercing to be placed and mark the area.
  • Ensure that the marks covers the same distance from the center of the lip. They should also be on the same line.
  • A clamp may be used to hold your lip into position and may also help to reduce the pain.
  • The piercer will then insert the needle into the mark and place in the snake bite piercing jewelry.
  • The same procedure will be done on the other mark.
  • He or she will wipe away any bleeding and apply an anti-bacterial ointment.

The professional piercer should be able to use a long jewelry that will leave a room for swelling. It is normal for your piercing to swell two to three days after the procedure. The swelling will go down after the first week of the procedure.
To relive the swelling, such on some ice cubes, eat foods like yoghurt and ice cream that help in soothing. Alternatively, you can take over the counter medicines like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
Follow the aftercare instructions provided by your professional piercer to reduce the risks of infection, migration and rejections and delayed healing process. The instructions contains a list of things to do and to avoid during the healing process.

Snake Bite Piercing Cost

How much does it cost to have a snake bite lip piercing? The cost of this type of body piercing ranges between $80 and $120 when the jewelry is included. However, the price varies from one piercing studio to the other depending on the following factors:

  1. The skills and experience of the piercer

The piercers who has enough knowledge, skills, experience and certified from the relevant authority will tend to charge more as compared to those that are still gaining the experience. You are likely to have a successful piercing from such piercers as compared to those that are still new in that field.

  1. The type of the jewelry

The type of jewelry you are intending to use will also determine the piercing cost. Individuals who are allergic to cheap jewelries will be required to spend more on buying expensive jewelry that does not easily trigger an allergy. However, it is better to spend more buying an expensive ring or stud that guarantees a successful piercing.

  1. Geographical location

Urban centers will tend to charge less for snake bite piercing as compared rural area. This is because, the urban areas has a higher competition as compared to rural area. However some studios in urban areas that has more clients may charge more due to high quality services they are providing.

  1. Other medications that are used before and after the procedure

You may be required to pay more for some of the medication you are given at the studio to prevent infections. It is better to spend some amount in buying sterilizing solutions than using unsterilized equipment’s that increases the risk of an infection.

Snake Bite Piercing Jewelry

There is a variety of jewelries that look fabulous for a snake bite lip piercing. You can choose to wear a labret studs, ball closure rings, circular barbells, body spirals or smooth segments ring. Most people normally wear a captive beaded rings that visually resembles a snake fangs.
However, you can also wear two different labret stud to have a unique look. You can use a clear ball rings or stud when you want to hide the piercing. Some jewelries that camouflage the skin color can be used when you don’t want people to notice you’re piercing.
Choose the correct width of the hoop of your jewelry. Professional piercers recommends the use of 16 to 14gauge as a starter. It helps to provide enough room for the swellings and it also creates enough space for cleaning the piercing.
Change the jewelry to a smaller one after the initial healing process. it helps to prevent the risk of enamel erosion, gum irritation or infections.

Snake Bite Piercing Pain

Does it hurt to have snake bite lip piercing? Just like any other type of body piercing, you may experience some pain. For snake bite, you will experience a double pain since the piercer has to make two separate incision. Some individual prefers to perform the procedure one at a time.
However, during the initial healing process, you may experience some pain due to an injury or trauma that result from playing with the jewelry or bumping your lips into an object when exercising or playing spots. Improper care can also leads to an infection that can cause pain. However there are various steps you can take to relieve the pain. They include:

  • Keep your piercing clean by washing it with mild soap and water. Avoid touching it with dirty hands as it can cause an infection that triggers pain.
  • Take over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen to relieve the pain and other discomforts.
  • Soak your piercing in a saline solution for 10 minutes. It helps to initiate the healing process as well as killing bacteria that causes infections.
  • Apply a cold compress using refrigerated saline solution. Alternatively, wrap an ice cube is a clean paper towel and place it on areas around the piercing for some minutes.
  • Gargle into your mouth a saline solution. Alternatively, use an alcohol free mouthwash to clean your mouth. It helps to kill bacteria and other micro-organisms that results to infections.
  • Leave the piercing alone, avoid playing with the jewelry as it can cause an injury to the piercing.
  • Use a long jewelry that will accommodate the swelling to avoid pain due to pressure of the swollen snake bite piercing.

However, persistence pain during and after the initial healing process may be a sign of an infection. Consult your doctor immediately if the pain is accompanied with other symptoms of an infection like persistence swelling, yellow or green discharge, redness and sensitivity to touch.

Snake Bite Tongue Piercing

Snake bite tongue piercing is also referred to as venom tongue piercing. It is simply two piercing that are placed side by side on the surface of the tongue.  The piercing resembles that of a snake fangs and hence the name snake bite or venom tongue piercing.
Just like snake bite lip piercing, you have to undergo the pain twice when making the two piercing. Some people prefers to have one piercing at a time while others normally opt to get both the piercing at the same time. It is advantageous to have the two incision at the same time since you will go through the swelling process at once.
Like any other type of body piercing, it is normal for your tongue to become swollen, tender and painful during the initial healing process. To reduce the swelling and other discomforts, place some ice chips on the surface of the tongue. Cleaning your mouth using a high quality mouthwash can also help to prevent the risk of infections.

Snake Bite Piercing Care

It is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your professional piercer. Poor aftercare practices can lead to an infection that may delay the healing process of increases the chances of migration and rejection of the piercing. Here are some of the tips on how to take care of your piercing:

  1. Keep inside your mouth clean all the time

Brush your teeth and floss regularly especially after taking every meal. It helps to get rid of food particles that accumulates between your teeth and tongue. Such food particles attracts bacteria and other pathogenic micro-organisms in your mouth.
It is also important to rinse your mouth for at least 30 seconds using a high quality mouthwash. Avoid using mouthwash containing alcohol as it may irritate your piercing. Alternatively, you can use a salt solution to rinse your mouth too.

  1. Clean inside and outside of the piercing and the jewelry

Clean the piercing once or twice a day preferably after shower when the crusted material have softened. You can use a mild anti-bacterial soap to clean the outside part and the jewelry or prepare a saline solution by mixing ¼ teaspoon of sea salt with a glass of warm water. Soak the cotton ball in the solution and dab over the snake bite piercing to remove the crusting and other dirty.
Do not over-clean the pierced area as it may delay the healing process. It is also not recommended to clean the piercing with soap more than twice a day. Wash your hands thoroughly using an anti-bacterial soap before touching the piercing when cleaning.

  1. Eat soft foods slowly and carefully

During the initial healing process, it is recommended to eat soft and cool foods like ice cream, yoghurt or soup. Such foods helps to soothe and relieve lip piercing swelling and other discomforts. Slice or cut solid foods into small pieces and place them directly to the molars for chewing.
Eat slowly and carefully to avoid biting the lips or food coming into contact with your piercing. Avoid hard foods that can cause irritation when eating.

  1. Help to reduce the swelling and other discomforts that results from snake bite piercing

Placing some ice chips in your mouth is important for any lip piercing care swelling. It helps to relieve the swelling and pain. However don’t allow the ice chips to overstay in your mouth as they can also cause a burning effects.
Alternatively, you can take over-the-counter pain killers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen to relive the pain, swelling and other discomforts. Avoid using aspirin as it may cause blood thinning. Take such medicines as directed by the manufactures instructions.

  1. Do not touch the piercing with dirty hands

Dirty hands contains numerous bacteria and other germs that increases the risk of an infection when you touch the piercing without washing them. It is therefore advisable to wash hands and also avoid unnecessary touching the piercing. Touch it only when cleaning.

  1. Avoid having oral sex

Engaging in oral sex activities like kissing increases the chances of an infection. Mouth contains numerous bacteria, therefore, mouth kissing introduces new bacteria into your mouth. Different bacteria and viruses can also get into your bloodstream through the wound created by the piercing.

  1. Avoid eating certain foods, smoking and alcohol consumption during the initial healing process.

After snake bite piercing procedure, it is important to avoid alcohol, smoking tobacco, caffeine, sticky foods like candy and gum, spicy foods and chewing other non-food items. Tobacco smoke and alcohol contains toxins that can irritate the piercing or increase the chances of an infection.
Candy and chewing gums can stick on the jewelry, removing can cause trauma or injury to the pierced area. This can cause new bleeding, lowers the healing process or increase the chances of an infection.

  1. Avoid using public swimming pools or hot tubs

During the initial healing process, it is recommended to avoid using public swimming pools, hot tubs or other water bodies that are used by many people. Such facilities may harbor bacteria and other micro-organisms that increases the risk of an infection.

  1. Don’t change the piercing jewelry during the initial healing process

Don’t change the jewelry before the piercing heals. This can damage the healing tissues to cause a new wound. Use a long jewelry that will accommodate swelling during the initial healing process to avoid changing the jewelry. If it is a must to change it, then let it be done by a professional piercer.

  1. Avoid haring utensils, foods, drinks and other personal items

Sharing of utensils, foods, drinks and other personal items increases the risk of infecting you’re piercing. You may have washed your hands thoroughly before touching the food but the other person may not have cleaned them well.  Bacteria can also be transferred from ones mouth to the other through sharing of utensils like water glass among others.
Poor aftercare practices can lead to an infection. Some signs of an infection includes prolonged healing process, presence or yellow or green discharge from the piercing, persistence redness and tenderness, bleeding and excessive pain.
It is normal to experience some of these symptoms during the initial healing process. However, you should visit your healthcare provider for treatment when they become persistence. The doctor will examine your piercing, conduct some tests and provide the required treatment.