Overview
Perioral dermatitis, one of the many forms of dermatitis that affects the skin, is most prevalent in young women, says the American Academy of Dermatology, although every now and then men and children experience it as well. Perioral dermatitis presents in the form of small inflamed bumps, redness and peeling around the area of the mouth. When bumps are the most obvious symptom, perioral dermatitis can look a lot like acne. Perioral dermatitis can have a variety of causes, including use of topical and inhaled steroids and heavy skin care products. Home treatment for perioral dermatitis is also an important component of resolving this skin condition.
Causes
The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) states that the first measure taken to treat perioral dermatitis at home is to have patients discontinue use of topical products that may have caused it. Topical steroid creams should be discontinued, as should heavy moisturizers, skin creams and thick cosmetics. If steroid cream is discontinued, the AOCD warns that symptoms of perioral dermatitis may look and feel worse for days or even weeks before it begins to resolve. MedlinePlus states that you should not put topical steroids on your face, unless your doctor instructs you to do so; avoiding use of these creams is important for prevention of perioral dermatitis.
Gentle Care
Care should be taken when washing the face. The AOCD states that home treatment for perioral dermatitis includes use of a very mild cleanser or soap substitute (suggested brands are Dove and Cetaphil). Don’t scrub the skin whenever you wash it.
Other Potential Cause
Use of fluoride toothpastes may also cause perioral dermatitis, says the AOCD. If the condition is particularly recalcitrant, failing to resolve with other measures, patients may be advised to stop using fluorinated toothpastes. Non-fluorinated dental products can be purchased at many health food markets, drugstores and pharmacies.
Considerations
More severe cases of perioral dermatitis may need more than self-care; Medline Plus states that prescription oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline or erythromycin, may be required. Typically, a topical cream that contains steroids is not used to treat this skin condition; however, a doctor may recommend use of prescription topical antibacterial medications, such as metronidazole, erythromycin, benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin.
Precautions
Left untreated, perioral dermatitis can linger for months—even years, cautions the AAD. Perioral dermatitis often returns even after successful resolution, says the AOCD. Generally, the same treatment methods used to treat it initially remain effective.
About this Author
Lisa Sefcik has been writing professionally since 1987. Her subject matter includes pet care, travel, consumer reviews, classical music and entertainment. She’s worked as a policy analyst, news reporter and freelance writer/columnist for Cox Publications and numerous national print publications. Sefcik holds a paralegal certification as well as degrees in journalism and piano performance from the University of Texas at Austin.
