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Has anyone used Efudex on their lips?

Has anyone used Efudex on their lips? And 5 minutes after dry apply Triamcinolone Acetonide and Vaseline.

  1. Yes I am currently using Efudex on my lower lip and it is hell.
    The top layer is sloughing off after just a week of application, but the bleeding and scabbing is awful. Trying to prevent total drying out by applying Polysporin as well as avoid infection. Eating is a challenge, so is teeth cleaning.

    1. I’m so sorry you’ve had such a rough go of it! Maybe I won’t have such a strong reaction. I was worried about what it would do to the inside of my mouth, I figured some would get in from my lip.

    2. My gums were fine i I did not have issues. But both corners of my lips became open wounds it it make it hard to talk or eat so I (finally!) had my mouth pretty much shut. My hubby got a silent treatment for 2 weeks 😀

  2. I’m currently treating my lips with Effudex as well. I applied the cream for 5 days and now I’m 7 days since stopping application of cream. My top lip was irritated and swollen but my bottom lip has erupted with several spots that are weeping and oozing. They are crusting over and cracking open. I’m in so much pain. I can’t eat much at all. I have blisters inside my bottom lip as well and it’s hard to brush my teeth. My gums are irritated and hurting. I wish there was something topical to put in my lips to numb the pain. I’ve been using Aquaphor per my dermatologist


    1. I bought some cream with 20% lidocaine that was meant for denture pain. I just started my treatment on my lower lip and thought this might help once the crusting, cracking and oozing started.

      1. I haven't tried lidocaine, but I can see how it would bring some relief. Please let us know how it works for you. It's always great to have several soothing remedies on hand for healing!


        I am keeping you in my thoughts as you heal. It can be quite a challenge. We are always here for you!


        April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator

    2. I finished my treatment with Effudex on my lower lip. It seems to be healed but it looks like I still have Actinic chelitis as there is still some peeling on the corners of my lips. I am so bummed out. I don't want to do a 2nd treatment.

      1. ... Have you been for a recheck since finishing treatment? Your doctor will be able to tell you if you are still showing signs of precancers. As far as the peeling goes, it is not uncommon to have some peeling several weeks following treatment. When I have treated my face and chest, I notice little areas producing dead skin for a good while after the healing phase. I keep my skin moisturized and roll those little spots off in the shower.


        Don't be discouraged! I am keeping my fingers crossed that what you are seeing is just that dead skin continuing to slough off. Check in with your doctor. Please keep us updated! We are all rooting for a wonderful outcome from this treatment!


        April, SkinCancer.net, Moderator

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