Dry skin in winter and repeated lip licking predispose to inflammation. Group VI topical steroids and petrolatum-based barrier protectants may control early cases.

Mixed infection evolves after several weeks. Ketoconazole cream, mupirocin ointment, and group VI topical steroids (to suppress inflammation) are used in rotation every 6 h to treat yeast and bacteria.

Saliva is drawn into perioral skin folds of the elderly. Repeated wetting–drying cycles chap and inflame the skin. Daily applications of petrolatum-based lubricants may protect fold from moisture.