How to Heal a Split Lip

Co-authored by Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD and Luke Smith, MFA

Last Updated: June 25, 2024 Fact Checked

Whether you split your lip playing sports or due to dryness, it is important to treat the injured area carefully. To promote healing, start by stopping any bleeding and assessing the depth of the split. Wash out the split with water and apply an antibiotic ointment. Over the next few days, keep the swelling in check by using healing pastes. See your doctor if you notice any signs of infection.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Providing Immediate Care

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Before you touch your face or injured lip, place your hands under warm water for at least 20 seconds and lather them up with antimicrobial soap.^{[1]
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University of Rochester Medical Center
Leading academic medical center in the U.S. focused on clinical care and research

Go to source} If you are outside and without water access, rub your hands with hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.^{[2]
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services

Go to source} This minimizes the germs that could transfer from your fingertips to the cut.
2
Rinse the wound with cool water for 3-4 minutes. Place your lip under the faucet and let the water run into the split area for 3-4 minutes, cleansing it of dirt or debris.^{[3]
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Research source} If the cut is on the outside of your mouth, gently dab the injured area with mild hand soap, then rinse the soap away with water. Avoid scrubbing the split spot or you may cause it to break open further.^{[4]
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University of Rochester Medical Center
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- Be aware that lip wounds that are not properly cleaned are more likely to scar or require further treatment.
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3
Press a cold compress to the split. If your mouth or lips feel swollen or bruised, put a small ice pack on the area for 10 minutes at a time until the swelling begins to subside. If you can't find an ice pack, use a clean hand towel moistened with cold water. Give children a popsicle or ice cube to suck on to numb the pain and minimize bleeding.^{[5]
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Cleveland Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

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- The cold should also minimize bleeding, so that you can take a closer look at your injury. If the wound does not stop bleeding after 10 minutes of cold compresses and mild pressure, then reach out to your doctor.^{[6]
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- If you're concerned about possible debris in the wound, especially glass, don't apply any pressure to the area. Visit a doctor to have the debris removed.^{[7]
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4
Assess the injury. Now that you can see clearly into the split area, get in front of a mirror and assess the depth and extent of the injury. If the cut is very deep and you are worried about it not closing properly, or if you're having trouble speaking because of it, then contact your doctor for advice. If you decide to treat the injury yourself, then reassess it every day.^{[8]
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University of Rochester Medical Center
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- If the split seems severe, consider seeing a doctor immediately. The split will most likely heal quickly, and from that point on, may scar if not treated professionally.
5
Apply a dab of topical antiseptic lotion or cream. Once you are satisfied that the split is clean, protect the area from infection by applying a pea-sized amount of antiseptic ointment with a clean finger. Reapply as directed on the package.^{[9]
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University of Rochester Medical Center
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- You may also apply a small amount of liquid bandage to splits on the outside of your mouth, if desired. Never apply liquid bandage to the inside of your mouth.^{[10]
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6
Seek emergency treatment for severe cuts. If the split is deep enough so that the two sides cannot easily come together, then you may need stitches. If the split is located in the corner or borders of your lip and continues to bleed without stopping after 10 minutes of pressure, then have a doctor assess the injury. The same is true if you are concerned that an object or debris may be located in the wound.^{[11]
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University of Rochester Medical Center
Leading academic medical center in the U.S. focused on clinical care and research

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- If the split was caused by an object injury or if you're concerned about possible debris in the wound, see a medical professional ASAP. There's a chance that you might need to get an x-ray or tetanus shot.^{[12]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Promoting Healing

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1
Rinse the split with saline solution after each meal. In a small bowl, mix 1 c (240 mL) of lukewarm water and 1 tsp (7g) of salt. Dip a cotton ball or swab into the solution and then apply it to the injured lip, or swish it in your mouth for several seconds if the cut is internal^{[13]
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Research source}. It will sting or burn slightly. Repeat as desired.
- The salt will help to reduce inflammation and counter infection in the split area.
2
Apply a turmeric paste as a home remedy. Turmeric is a traditional herbal topical treatment.^{[14]
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Research source} In a small bowl, place 3 tsp (9g) of turmeric powder. Add spoonfuls of water and mix until a thick paste forms. Use a cotton swab to apply this paste directly onto the split. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes and then rinse off with cool water.^{[15]
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- Turmeric paste is not a proper replacement for antibiotic ointment or medical treatments. Consult with a doctor for best healing practices.
Be aware that as your lip heals it will be particularly sensitive to salty, spicy, or citrusy foods.^{[16]
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Research source} Stay away from orange juice or hot wings, for example. Eating these items may also cause the lips to swell up again, which can extend the healing process.
The more that you lick the area, the more that it will dry out and crack. You may also create a cold sore within, or next to, the split. Resist the temptation to pick at or explore the injured area with your fingers, too. You could deepen the wound or introduce it to harmful bacteria.^{[17]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

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If the cut begins to redden or increases in soreness after your initial treatment, then reach to your doctor, as you could have an infection. Or, if your teeth are increasingly painful, then talk with your dentist, as you could have sustained a dental injury. A medical professional can also help you if you are suffering from persistent mouth dryness and cracked lips.^{[18]
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National Health Service (UK)
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Protecting Your Lips

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1
Apply a zinc-based cream to your lips. For many, cracked lips are the result of too much sun exposure. When you're doing yard work, construction, or other tasks out in the heat, coat your lips with a zinc-based product to ensure protection.^{[19]
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Expert Source

Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Interview. 15 May 2020.}
- Using diaper cream on your lips also has this same protective effect.
After your lip has healed, buy a non-medicated, beeswax-based, SPF 15 lip balm and apply it every 2 hours. It's even better if the balm contains lanolin or petroleum. Some lip balms even have an SPF rating and can help protect your lips from dryness caused by sun exposure.^{[20]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

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To keep your entire body hydrated, and avoid cracked and split lips, drink plenty of water every day.^{[21]
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National Health Service (UK)
Public healthcare system of the UK

Go to source} Men should aim for 15.5 c (3,700 mL) and women for 15.5 c (3,700 mL) per day.^{[22]
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Harvard Medical School
Harvard Medical School's Educational Site for the Public

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There are many dental hygiene products that are specifically made to eliminate or at least reduce mouth dryness. These don’t contain sodium lauryl sulfate, which can contribute to sores. Using these products may help prevent you from getting lip wounds associated with mouth dryness.^{[23]
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5
Use a humidifier to moisturize your skin. Winter and cold weather can create dry conditions that will cause your lips to crack. These cracks can then turn into deep splits. To counter this pattern, use a humidifier in your room at night.^{[24]
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Johns Hopkins Medicine
Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital

Go to source} Or, install a humidistat device on your interior heating and cooling system.
- This is especially a good idea if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping, which can dry out your lips even more.
6
Monitor your medications. If you suffer from continued split lips, it could be that your medications are to blame. Read all of the warning labels for your meds, looking for any cautions against dryness. If you see something that concerns you, talk with your doctor about medication alternatives.^{[25]
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Mayo Clinic
Educational website from one of the world's leading hospitals

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- For example, some acne medications dry up the moisture and oils on your entire face, including your lips.
Split lips may be a sign of a vitamin deficiency. To counter this problem, take a quality multivitamin each day that contains iron and zinc. B9 (folate) and other B vitamins can also promote skin healing. Try out a few different vitamin combinations, with the guidance of your doctor, to see what works the best for you.^{[26]
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Expert Q&A

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Question

Why is moisture good for your skin?

Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Margareth Pierre-Louis is a board certified Dermatologist and Dermatopathologist, Physician Entrepreneur, and the Founder of Twin Cities Dermatology Center and Equation Skin Care in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Twin Cities Dermatology Center is a comprehensive dermatology clinic treating patients of all ages through clinical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and telemedicine. Equation Skin Care was created to provide the best in evidence-based, natural skin care products. Dr. Pierre-Louis earned a BS in Biology and an MBA from Duke University, an MD from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, completed a residency in dermatology at the University of Minnesota, and completed a dermatopathology fellowship at Washington University in St Louis. Dr. Pierre-Louis is board certified in dermatology, cutaneous surgery, and dermatopathology by the American Boards of Dermatology and Pathology.

Margareth Pierre-Louis, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist

Expert Answer

Skin is covered in a waxy layer and hydration can help your skin relax and open up. So steam and moisture will soften your skin up and make it easier to clean. Basically, it helps clean your pores.

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Tips

It is also possible that your toothpaste is causing your split or cracked lips. It may help to switch to a sensitive or all-natural alternative brand.^{[27]
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Keep your lips moist especially in the winter.

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Warnings

Keep in mind that tetanus shots are only effective for 5 years. If your injury involved an object or debris and you haven't gotten a shot within the past 5 years, you'll most likely need to get one.^{[28]
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