How can I heal angular cheilitis while on Accutane?

Question

I am on a 80mg dose of accutane and have developed Angular cheilitis on both sides of my lips for about 3 weeks. My dermatologist has me using hydrocortisone which has helped a bit but I still have to apply cream constantly just to keep my lips from bleeding throughout the day. I am just one month away from finishing my treatment if I stay at this dose so I am hoping to be able to fix the Angular cheilitis without lowering my dose.

Daniel Navi, MD, FAAD · Answer

Angular cheilitis is very common while on Accutane. I generally advised keeping the lips and surrounding areas lubricated with Aquaphor ointment (available OTC) several times daily. You may also use low dose topical steroid such as prescription Hydrocortisone 2.5% or Desonide ointment twice daily on as needed basis when the cheilitis gets severe or very symptomatic. This combination tends to work well for most patients. Good luck!

How can I heal angular cheilitis while on Accutane?

Answers (1)