What is peri-oral dermatitis?
Peri-oral dermatitis is a common skin condition that more commonly affects women aged 20 to 50 years old. It usually causes persistent redness or small bumps (papules) and sometimes pus containing spots (pustules).
It can persist for a few months until the cause is identified and corrected. The name of the condition ‘Peri-oral dermatitis’ can be confusing, as it is not thought to be a form of dermatitis (eczema). Instead, peri-oral dermatitis is believed to be a type of rosacea.
Rosacea is a common longstanding condition that causes persistent redness, bumps, and pus containing spots (pustules) on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. For peri-oral dermatitis, ‘steroid-provoked rosacea’ might be a better name, but most people still use the term “peri-oral dermatitis.”
What causes peri-oral dermatitis?
Peri-oral dermatitis is usually triggered by the use of steroid creams on the face. It can also be triggered by steroid tablets or inhalers taken for another medical condition. The exact cause of peri-oral dermatitis is not fully understood.
Is peri-oral dermatitis hereditary?
No.
What are the symptoms of peri-oral dermatitis?
People with peri-oral dermatitis usually notice a recurrent red rash around the mouth, which feels sore and may be persistent.
How does peri-oral dermatitis look like?
Peri-oral dermatitis causes persistent redness on the face with many small bumps called papules. Pus filled spots called pustules may be seen, and small red patches are usually dry and flaky. It can cause burning and irritation of the skin. It is usually on the lower face, around the mouth, and may occasionally involve areas around the eyes and nose. It usually spares the cheeks and forehead.
How is peri-oral dermatitis diagnosed?
Peri-oral dermatitis is a diagnosis made by looking at the skin and from the appearance and distribution of the red rash on the face. There has nearly always been some application of steroid creams to the skin. Other tests are not usually required.
Can peri-oral dermatitis be cured? Peri-oral dermatitis is usually easily treated by stopping steroid creams (topical steroids) and treating for a few weeks with a once-daily tetracycline tablet. In most people, this clears of the rash. As long as steroid creams are then avoided to the face, it usually stays clear, though it can sometimes come back.
How can peri-oral dermatitis be treated?
Stop steroid cream. This is the first step towards treatment—antibiotic from the tetracycline group.
Self-care (What can I do?)
- Try not to pick or squeeze your spots.
- Stop applying all face creams, including topical steroids, cosmetics, and sunscreens, unless advised by your doctor.
- Wash the face with water only until the condition resolves.
- Once peri-oral dermatitis has settled down, use a soap substitute as advised by your doctor or nurse to cleanse your face.
- Use an unperfumed moisturizer regularly if your skin is dry or sensitive.