Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment for Perioral Dermatitis

by Mama Nature Health & Beauty

Mild Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory rash involving the skin around the mouth. The rash may spread up to the nose or even the eyes. In that case, it is referred to as periorificial dermatitis. It usually appears as a scaly or red bumpy rash around the mouth. There may be a clear fluid discharge. Redness and slight itching and burning can also occur.

Perioral dermatitis or severe nappy rash is more common in women between the ages of 16 to 45 years but can be seen in all ages, races, and ethnicities. It also occurs in children of any age.

Without the right treatment, cases of perioral dermatitis go away but may reappear later. Episodes of perioral dermatitis can last weeks and even months.

What causes perioral dermatitis?

The cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown. However, experts suggest that it can occur after the use of strong topical steroids on the skin. These may be prescribed to treat another condition. Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids may cause perioral dermatitis as well.

Certain ingredients in cosmetics may causeperioral dermatitis, too. Heavy skin creams that contain petrolatum or a paraffin base may cause or worsen this condition.

What are the symptoms of perioral dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis usually appears as a rash of red bumps around the mouth and in the folds around the nose.

The bumps may be scaly in appearance. They can also appear:

• in the area under the eyes

• on the forehead

• on the chin

These small bumps can contain pus or fluids. They may resemble acne.

You may experience symptoms such as burning or itching, especially as the rash worsens.

How is perioral dermatitis diagnosed?

Your doctor or dermatologist can often diagnose perioral dermatitis with just a visual examination of your skin, along with your medical history.

Your doctor may also perform a skin culture test to rule out a possible infection. During this test, your doctor will swab a small patch of skin in the affected area. They will send the sample to a laboratory to test the skin cells for bacteria or fungi.

Your doctor may also perform a skin biopsy, especially if the rash does not respond to standard treatments.

What are the treatment options for perioral dermatitis?

The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology (AOCD) recommends stopping the use of topical steroid creams or nasal sprays containing steroids, if possible. These products can make symptoms worse and are likely responsible for the symptoms.

However, it is important to speak with your doctor before discontinuing any medications. If you are concerned about your condition and do not already have a dermatologist, you can view doctors in your area.

Your doctor will determine your treatment based on the severity of your condition. In some cases, using mild soaps and discontinuing the use of heavy skin creams and fluorinated toothpaste may ease symptoms. Medications may also speed healing.