
Disclaimer: Each patient is unique and individual results may vary.
A rash that appears around the mouth is known as perioral dermatitis. The term “perioral” refers to the area around the mouth. The medical term for “inflamed skin” is dermatitis.
Perioral dermatitis affects people of all skin tones. Young and middle-aged women are the ones that get this rash the most. This rash can affect children and adolescents, and it affects both females and boys. Perioral dermatitis affects a small percentage of men.
Perioral dermatitis is characterized by redness, swelling, and acne-like pimples. The rash normally surrounds the mouth, but a thin band of skin around the lips appears normal. A burning sensation around the lips affects many people. The rash can itch at times. Skin might peel and appear scaly.
Because this rash can appear anywhere on the face, it is frequently referred to as “periorificial dermatitis.” It can form a ring around the eyes and nose, as well as on the cheeks. The rash can also occur on the forehead.
It’s unclear why some people develop this rash or what causes it.
Some persons who develop perioral dermatitis have been exposed to a corticosteroid-containing drug applied to their face, either directly to the skin or through an asthma inhaler. Other than topical steroids, our dermatologists can assist you treat this rash.
Corticosteroids aren’t always to blame. This rash can occur after using fluoride- or cinnamon-containing toothpaste. Perioral dermatitis can also be caused by tartar-control and whitening toothpastes. This rash can be caused by moisturizers, cosmetics, and sunscreen. Even when the rash has cleared, dermatologists advise that you seek out other products to keep the rash from reappearing.
By asking you questions about the rash and analyzing your skin, Moksha Dermatology can typically determine the diagnosis.
Perioral dermatitis should be treated, according to dermatologists. The rash can linger for months or even years if not treated. Antibiotics are frequently used to treat infections. Your Moksha Dermatology dermatologist may prescribe a topical antibiotic to be applied to your face along with a moderate moisturizer if you have a mild case or are pregnant. Oral antibiotics are required in some cases. After several weeks or months of taking the oral antibiotic, the majority of patients improve. The rash may recur if you stop taking the antibiotic too soon. It’s critical to follow your dermatologist’s advice. You may also need to stop using specific skin care products, cosmetics, and toothpastes to get rid of the rash. If you’re using a corticosteroid-containing product, your dermatologist can help you figure out how to stop using it and avoid a recurrence of perioral dermatitis.
If you’ve had perioral dermatitis, follow your dermatologists’ instructions to avoid a flare-up. Without a dermatologist’s approval, do not use topical corticosteroid creams on your face for more than a few days.