What Are the Treatment Options for a Small Red Bump on My Lip?

A red bump on your lip could be from several common conditions, including cold sores, pimples, angular cheilitis, or canker sores. Blood vessel growths such as pyogenic granulomas can also appear as red bumps on the lip. Each has its own unique characteristics and treatment approaches. Common treatment options for a small red bump on the lip depend on the specific cause:

Cold sores

Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are small fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). The bump might tingle or burn before becoming visible. Treatment options include:

• Antiviral medications like acyclovir (Zovirax), valacyclovir (Valtrex), or famciclovir (Famvir)
• Cold sore creams or ointments containing docosanol (Abreva)
• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling

Pimples or acne

Sometimes what appears to be a bump on the lip is actually a pimple. Treatment options include:

• Gentle cleansing with mild soap
• Spot treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid
• Avoiding picking or squeezing the bump

Angular cheilitis

This condition causes redness, scaling, and cracks at the corners of the mouth. Treatment options include:

• Antifungal creams if caused by a fungal infection
• Topical antibiotics if caused by a bacterial infection
• Petroleum jelly to protect the area

Canker sores

These are small, painful ulcers inside the mouth that can sometimes appear on the inner lip. Treatment options include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Oral rinses containing benzocaine or lidocaine
• Avoiding spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods

Vascular lesions

Vascular lesions such as pyogenic granulomas can appear as bright red, rapidly growing bumps on the lip. Treatment options include:

• Surgical excision for complete removal
• Laser therapy to destroy the blood vessels
• Cryotherapy (freezing) for smaller lesions

Since each condition needs its own treatment, it is important to have a healthcare professional look at your lip bump to decide the best treatment plan. This information is for education only and not a substitute for medical advice.