Perioral Dermatitis: Treatment, Symptoms, and Tips on How To Avoid Making It Worse

What Is Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the area around the mouth, but can also spread to the nose or the eye area. It typically appears as small pink bumps, blisters (sometimes filled with pus), and general redness of skin.

It mainly affects women of childbearing age; it is less common in men. Perioral dermatitis also commonly occurs in children, where the rash around the mouth may be slightly more extensive. It also frequently affects people with inherently dry skin or atopic eczema.

What are the causes and triggers of perioral dermatitis?

These irritants include, for example, the use of topical corticosteroids or excessive skincare, essentially ‘overburdened skin’ resulting from over-hydration and layering too many creams or make-up products. Triggers that can lead to dermatitis around the mouth also include fluoride in toothpaste, mechanical irritation of skin, hormonal changes, and weather-related factors (excessive sun exposure). Long-term stress may also play a role.

How can I tell if I have perioral dermatitis?

If you're not sure whether it's acne, atopic eczema around the mouth, or perioral dermatitis, pay attention to the following points:

• Typical white border: The most distinctive feature is a narrow strip of healthy, unaffected skin immediately surrounding the lips.
• Small pimples: The appearance of small pink to red pimples that may merge into patches.
• Sensations of tightness: Skin tends to feel tight and may burn or itch slightly.
• Peeling: In the later stages, flaking and redness appear around the mouth.
• Location: Dermatitis most commonly occurs around the nose and mouth, and rarely around the eyes.

What helps with perioral dermatitis?

The cornerstone of both home and professional treatment is what’s known as ‘zero therapy.’ This means completely discontinuing everything you currently use on your skin: creams, make-up, and cleansers. Be patient, the treatment is a long process. If you’ve previously used corticosteroids, you may experience a temporary flare-up, which you’ll need to endure without trying anything else.

What products are suitable for the later stages? Zinc ointment for dermatitis is an excellent choice. Zinc has drying and anti-inflammatory effects on pus-filled pimples. When choosing dermo-cosmetic skincare products, ideally look for them in the pharmacy cosmetics section. Focus on dermo-cosmetic products designed for intolerant or hypersensitive skin. They should have the simplest possible formulation, free of fragrances and other irritants.

What can make perioral dermatitis worse?

If you have an itchy rash around your mouth, it’s important to focus not only on treatment but also on your daily routine. To help facial dermatitis heal more effectively, try to avoid the following:

• Mechanical irritation: Never squeeze pimples, and don’t wash your face with harsh exfoliators.
• Hot water and steam: Forget about saunas, hot baths, and facial steaming.
• Irritating foods: A flare-up of perioral dermatitis may also be related to diet. Limit spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, and coffee.
• Sunbathing: UV radiation significantly worsens the condition of skin during the acute phase.
• Experimenting with treatments: Don’t try every perioral dermatitis cream you see advertised; always consult your doctor first.

The good news is that with proper treatment and by avoiding irritants, this unpleasant condition will gradually subside in most cases. Give your skin time, simple care, and as little experimentation as possible. Minimalism is often the best strategy for this condition. With patience and a gentle approach, perioral dermatitis will gradually subside and your skin can return to normal.

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