Swollen lips can be pretty embarrassing and irksome. Pouty lips are every woman’s fantasy but the unusual swelling is something completely different from that fantasy.
There are numerous reasons that can cause swollen lips to develop overnight, according to health line, anything from an allergic reaction, trauma, injuries to just a simple insect bite.
Whatever the cause the condition is simply just annoying while at the same time be accompanied by soreness, cuts or even bleeding which makes it difficult to talk, eat or drink.
Can kissing cause swollen lips?
Yes, kissing can cause them to become swollen.
So, how does kissing cause them to swell? Your lips are made up of soft tissue, therefore any exposure to any form of trauma such as aggressive kissing could cause it to become swollen and even sore.
Additionally, any exposure to allergens during kissing can cause an allergic reaction leading to lip swelling.
Kissing when suffering from cracked or split lips directly exposes you to viruses and bacteria that could potentially cause infections leading them to swell.
Your partner could be using products that contain irritants which could cause them to become swollen and soar. These products include lipstick and mouthwash.
Treatment to try
Treatment will be dependent on the cause. However, if the those that are a result of kissing you could use the following treatment methods:
- use of ice compressors and avoiding hot drinks.
- Taking over the counter medicines such as anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation.
Home remedies for swollen lips
When the swelling is caused by kissing usually heal within 4-7 days without any form of intervention. However, you can hasten the healing process by implementing the following home remedies;
Aloe Vera
gel from the Aloe Vera plant consists numerous anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling of the lips especially if it’s a result of allergens. apply and massage the gel on the affectd area at least twice a day.
Adding some tea tree oil to Aloe Vera increases the effectiveness of the remedy due to tea tree’s powerful antimicrobial properties.
Cold Compresses
cold compresses offer relief for swollen lips when gently placed in the area for about 10 minutes severally.
You could use a cold spoon, a frozen bag of peas, or iced cubes wrapped in a washcloth or paper towel. This is an effective method since it reduces the amount of blood flowing to the affected region.
However, do not put ice cubes directly on them as they may cause a frostbite or soreness.
Turmeric powder:
turmeric powder contains healing and antiseptic properties that are good for treating inflamed lips as well as preventing infections.
Prepare a paste by mixing 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and an adequate amount of water, gently apply it on the swollen area and allow it to sit for some time before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. You can do this at least twice a day to relieve the swelling and the pain.
Honey
honey contains natural antiseptic and healing properties that quickly and efficiently treat swollen lips as well as moisturize, reduce pain and swelling.
Dab a cotton ball in some honey, gently apply it on the affected area, then rinse it off with some cold water after 10-20 minutes. You can repeat this 2-3 times in a day.
Baking soda
Baking soda contains antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that are effective in healing inflamed lips especially those caused by allergic reactions.
All you need to do is apply a mixture of baking soda and water to the affected area and leave it for 3-5 minutes before rinsing it off with some cold water. This can be repeated as often as possible until the inflammation reduces.
Tea bag
Black tea is high in tannins which contain astringent properties that decrease swelling of lips.
Soak a tea bag in some warm water for 5-10 minutes, remove it and allow it to cool down, gently put it on the affected area for 5-10 minutes. Repeat this severally during the day.
Additionally, you can apply witch hazelnut extract to your lips to prevent future swelling, avoid cheap lip products and monitor your diet to avoid intake of foods that cause the swelling.