A persistent sore on the lip is one that doesn’t get better within a couple of weeks. Most small cuts or irritations heal much faster than that. When a sore hangs around, it can be a sign of an underlying health issue. The skin on your lips is very sensitive, which makes it easy for infections or irritants to cause problems.
Persistent sores can look different from person to person. They might be small, red, and inflamed, or they could be larger, crusty spots. It’s a good idea to pay attention to any changes in the sore’s size, color, or how it feels. Noticing other symptoms like pain, itching, or swelling can also help figure out the cause.