Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that is commonly seen in women between the ages of 15 and 45, though it can also present in men, older individuals, and younger children. This rash is located around the mouth, and usually appears as small 1-2mm red bumps or blisters. We don’t fully know what causes this skin condition, though often it is linked to the use of topical steroids (like hydrocortisone) or other skin irritants (like from cosmetics).

Perioral dermatitis is challenging to treat, because most often the recommendation is 'zero therapy.’ Essentially this means stopping all lotions, creams, make-ups, topical medications etc. It can be very distressing for patients to experience this facial rash and yet not be given anything to make it go away! Further, they are advised to not try and conceal the rash as well, lest make up further irritate the skin and prolong the condition.

Most of the time the rash will resolve, albeit slowly - generally a few months of ‘zero therapy.’ In more than mild cases, there are a few anti-inflammatory or antibiotic ointments that could help, or at least not exacerbate the rash the way steroids would. And in severe cases, an oral antibiotic called tetracycline can be used - this medication is also used to treat severe cases of acne.

Unfortunately perioral dermatitis can recur, even a few years after successfully treating. The best prevention available is to stick with gentle skin cleansers and bland, fragrance free non-occlusive lotions or creams.