Key Features of Perioral Dermatitis

 

Perioral dermatitis is a facial skin condition characterized by red, bumpy, and sometimes scaly rashes that typically appear around the mouth, nose, and sometimes the eyes. It resembles acne or rosacea but is distinct and often misdiagnosed.

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🔍 Key Features of Perioral Dermatitis:

• Small red papules or pustules (like tiny pimples)

• Burning or stinging sensation (itching is less common)

• Clear area around the lips ("lip-sparing" zone)

• Dry, flaky, or irritated skin

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🎯 Common Causes and Triggers:

1. Topical Steroid Use (most common cause)

   • Even low-strength steroids can trigger it or make it worse.

2. Heavy Skin Products

   • Occlusive creams, foundations, or fluorinated toothpaste

3. Hormonal Fluctuations

4. Over-cleansing or over-exfoliating

5. Inhaled corticosteroids (like asthma sprays)

6. Environmental triggers (like heat, wind, or humidity)

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✅ How to Treat It:

1. Stop Topical Steroids

• May cause a flare before improvement ("withdrawal effect")—stick with it.

2. Simplify Your Skincare Routine

• Gentle cleanser

• Fragrance-free moisturizer

• No scrubs, exfoliants, or harsh actives

3. Topical Treatments

• Metronidazole

• Azelaic acid

• Clindamycin

• Sulfur-based creams

4. Oral Antibiotics (for moderate to severe cases)

• Tetracyclines (doxycycline, minocycline) for 6–12 weeks

5. Avoid Triggers

• Switch to fluoride-free toothpaste

• Use non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products

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⚠️ What Not to Do:

• Don’t try to “dry it out” with acne treatments—they usually make it worse.

• Avoid long-term use of topical steroids unless prescribed for another condition and monitored by a doctor.