What can I do if I have dry, discolored skin at the edges of my mouth?

[yhami]

For over 6 months now I've had an area of discoloration, dry skin and periodic itchiness at the corners of my mouth below my lips on both sides (about the size of a nickle on both sides). It started suddenly as dry flaky skin and over time there are periods where it goes down. There are also periods where the skin feels stretched and I can see lines on it. I have to constantly moisturize, however it does not heal only keeps it in control and prevents the skin from drying and flaking. There are also periods where the skin will get red and a little inflamed/slightly raised. Also now there is what seems like permanent brown discoloration. I have been using pure glycerine, I've stopped using harsh face washes and other products. I tried hydrocortisone cream but it made the skin more itchy. What should I do? I don't want this to become a permanent part of my life.