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I Have Had This Recurring Breakout On My Top Lip

Posted on Wed, 17 Apr 2019

Question: i have had this recurring breakout on my top lip less than a year now. mostly on a monthly basis and last lest than a week, it burns a little slight irritation. no pain other and very bearable. feels super dry like sandpaper. i have history of candida problem due to antibiotics. also bad seasonal allergies. some fruit allergies also.

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Either herpes labialis or allergic dermatitis

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to ask a doctor service
I have gone through your query and reviewed the attached photograph.
It seems to be either herpes labialis ( most likely ) or allergic dermatitis.
I need to ask you few questions:
Was it associated with blisters or bumps during the first few episodes?
Do you apply any thing on your lips?
Do you have any other ailments?
Kindly revert with the answers.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (32 minutes later)

i think blister like i use vaseline some lipsticks i have eczema rarely on arms i thought herpes are clusters together at border of lip,?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Seems to be herpes

Detailed Answer:
According to your complaints it seems to herpes.
Herpes doesn’t always presents with cluster of blisters.
It can present with mild tingling and burning along with dryness and erosions.
It is a recurrent infection which doesn’t have a permanent cure.
I would recommend you to apply topical antibiotic like neosporin ointment on the affected area twice daily for 5-7 days whenever you start with the symptoms.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng

Follow up: Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (2 hours later)

are you sure? can this happen through utensils, etc? all this time and my long term partner never had a problem. i never had herpes 2 either no symptoms. i was tested negative the same week of first symptom. can this be anything else possible?

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Could be allergic reaction

Detailed Answer:
I am not absolutely sure.
The other possibility is allergic reaction.
Herpes is a common infection which can spread through fomites such as utensils, soap, etc.
To confirm go for ELISA test for herpes infection.

Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng