17.07.2021 – 12:33
Perioral dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes a small lumpy rash around the mouth.
Like many skin conditions that appear on the face, perioral dermatitis is often confused with acne. However, it is not a type of acne and cannot be cured using acne treatments. In fact, those treatments are likely to make the rash worse.
This condition can also lead to dry spots that are confused with eczema. If then treated with steroids, this can further aggravate the condition.
Fortunately, there are other over-the-counter (OTC) options that can treat perioral dermatitis safely and effectively.
What is perioral dermatitis?
Periodic dermatitis is a rash that forms around the mouth. Causes the formation of red bumps, which can be easily confused with acne.
As the inflammation spreads, it can cause the skin to be:
swollen
dry
with scales
irritated
The condition often starts around the mouth and can spread to other parts of the face and body, such as:
eyelids
around the nose
forehead
neck
genitals
For some people, rash is the only symptom of perioral dermatitis. However, you may experience additional symptoms, such as:
scratching
FIRE
tingling sensation
Periodic dermatitis is sometimes considered a type of rosacea. It is most likely to occur in women between the ages of 19 and 40, but rash can appear in anyone at any age. The rash is not contagious.
Doctors are not sure what causes perioral dermatitis. However, there are several possible causes, including:
steroid creams for the face
oral or inhaled steroids
fluoride, as in toothpaste
sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), as in shampoo
excessive use of facial products
bad reaction to some facial products, including sunscreen
stress
hormones
Sometimes, it is clear that perioral dermatitis is caused by the use of a certain product. In this case, removing it from the routine may be all that is needed to cure the condition.
If the rash is severe, the skin may need more help to heal and recover.
Over-the-counter treatments
There are several things you can do to treat perioral dermatitis at home.
One of the first steps is to look into your skin care routine.
Remove any recently added products, such as a new face wash. May irritate skin and cause perioral dermatitis.
If you use makeup, you can do the same with any makeup you have recently purchased, especially with the products you use around the mouth.
It is also a good idea to use mild facial products when you have perioral dermatitis. Look for mild, fragrance-free soaps or skin care products. Try to avoid anything with harsh chemicals or strong odors until the rash clears up.
If you use any cream or acne cleanser with acne-fighting ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, it is a good idea to discontinue their use.
Sometimes, even fluoride toothpaste can worsen perioral dermatitis. Switching to a fluoride-free toothpaste for a few weeks can help if this is the case.
It is a good idea to make sure you have gentle skin care products. Cetaphil is a popular brand of gentle facial cleansers and moisturizers that can be found in pharmacies.
Using Cetaphil can help the skin heal from perioral dermatitis. It can also treat redness, dryness and fluctuations of the causes of the condition. It can also provide relief from other symptoms, such as itching.
The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown, but the use of steroid medications or harsh skin care products is often to blame. Discontinuing these products can help clear the rash.
You can also use gentle, fragrance-free lotions and cleansers to soothe the skin as it heals. If the condition does not clear up on its own, talk to a doctor about other safe treatment options.
