01About Perioral Dermatitis
02 Causes of Perioral Dermatitis
03 How to Diagnose Perioral Dermatitis
04 How to Treat it?
05 Ways to Prevent Perioral Dermatitis
06 Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have red, itchy, or bumpy rashes around your mouth, nose, or eyes? If yes, then you may be suffering from perioral dermatitis. This is a common skin condition that affects many people around the world, especially women and children. But what is perioral dermatitis, and how can you get rid of it?
However, there are some effective ways to manage and prevent perioral dermatitis by following some simple tips and using some natural remedies. But how do you know which tips and remedies are best for your skin type and condition? How do you find the best products and treatments that will not irritate your skin or make your skin condition worse?
That’s where we come in. We are a team of experts with 3-4 years of skincare expertise who understand the unique challenges of this state of skin. We have tested, researched, and reviewed many products, treatments, and remedies for perioral dermatitis, from affordable finds to premium brands, ensuring each one helps treat or improve the skin.
PERIORAL DERMATITIS - SYMPTOMS
- Red, bumpy rash around the mouth, nose, and eyes
- Scaly or flaky skin on the affected areas
- Pus-filled or fluid-filled bumps that may resemble acne
- Itching, burning, or tenderness of the skin
- Dryness and redness around the mouth, chin, and sometimes eyes
About Perioral Dermatitis
Do you have red, itchy, or bumpy rashes around your mouth, nose, or eyes? If yes, then you may be suffering from perioral dermatitis. This is a common skin condition that affects many people around the world, especially women and children. But what it is, and how can you get rid of it?
Perioral dermatitis is a type of skin inflammation that causes small, red, scaly, or pustular bumps on the skin around the mouth, nose, or eyes. It can also spread to other areas of the face or body. It can have various causes and triggers, such as using topical steroids, cosmetic products, hormonal factors, environmental factors, or bacterial or fungal infections. This skin concern can make your skin feel uncomfortable, irritated, or burning. It can also lower your self-esteem and confidence.
Causes of Perioral Dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis can have various causes and triggers, but some of the most common ones are using topical steroids, cosmetic products, hormonal factors, environmental factors, or bacterial or fungal infections. Sometimes it can be difficult to treat and prevent because it can recur or flare up with certain treatments or products.
Some of the possible causes are described below:
Topical steroids: Topical steroids are medications that are applied to the skin to treat various skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, or allergies. However, using topical steroids for a long time or on sensitive areas can cause this skin disease. This is because topical steroids can suppress your immune system and weaken your skin barrier, making your skin more prone to inflammation and infection.
Cosmetic products: Cosmetic products are products that are used to enhance your appearance, such as moisturizers, makeup, or sunscreen. However, using cosmetic products that contain harsh chemicals or ingredients can be a cause. This is because cosmetic products can irritate your skin or cause allergic reactions. Some of the ingredients that can trigger it are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), fluoride, fragrances, preservatives, dyes, or alcohols.
Hormonal factors: Hormonal factors are changes in your body’s hormones that occur naturally or due to certain factors, such as pregnancy, menstruation, menopause, or birth control pills. Hormonal factors can affect your skin’s oil production and sensitivity, making it more prone to perioral dermatitis.
Environmental factors: Environmental factors are factors that affect your surroundings and exposure to certain elements, such as heat, humidity, wind, pollution, or dust. Environmental factors can affect your skin’s moisture level and reaction to external stimuli, making it more prone to perioral dermatitis.
Bacterial or fungal infections: Bacterial or fungal infections are infections caused by microorganisms that invade your skin and cause inflammation and infection. Bacterial or fungal infections can trigger or worsen perioral dermatitis by disrupting your skin’s natural balance and defense.
How to Diagnose Perioral Dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis can be diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist or a medical dermatologist who specializes in skin conditions. They will examine your skin and ask you about your medical history, symptoms, and skin care products. They may also perform a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions such as acne vulgaris, seborrheic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, or rosacea.
After you are done with the diagnosis, you must begin with the effective treatment plan for the skin irritation. The doctor can either prescribe oral medications, topical medications, and anti-inflammatories.
How to Treat it?
Wait, are you thinking this cannot be treated? It might seem it is very difficult to treat it, but the good news is that perioral dermatitis can be treated with some simple steps and medications. Here are some ways to treat perioral dermatitis and prevent it from coming back:
1. Stop using topical steroids!
These are creams or ointments that contain cortisone or other anti-inflammatory drugs. They may seem to help at first, but they can make the rash worse in the long run. If you have been using topical steroids for a long time, do not stop suddenly. Talk to your doctor about how to taper off gradually.
2. Avoid heavy skin products!
These include moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup, and cleansers that contain petroleum jelly, paraffin, or sodium lauryl sulfate. These ingredients can clog your pores and irritate your skin. Instead, use gentle and fragrance-free products that are water-based or gel-based.
3. Wash your face with warm water and mild soap!
Do this twice a day, morning and night. Do not scrub or rub your skin too hard. Pat your skin dry with a soft towel.
4. Apply a topical antibiotic or anti-inflammatory cream!
Your doctor may prescribe you a cream that contains metronidazole, erythromycin, pimecrolimus, tacrolimus, adapalene, or azelaic acid. These medications can help reduce the inflammation and infection of the rash. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to use them.
5. Take oral antibiotics if needed!
For severe cases of perioral dermatitis, your doctor may prescribe you an oral antibiotic such as tetracycline or minocycline. These medications can help clear up the rash faster and prevent complications. You may need to take them for several weeks or months. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how to take them and report any side effects.
6. Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water!
Some foods may trigger or worsen perioral dermatitis, such as oily, spicy, or processed foods. Try to avoid these foods and eat more fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamins A, B6, C, and folic acid. These nutrients can help heal your skin and boost your immune system. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day to keep your skin hydrated and flush out toxins.
7. Protect your skin from the sun and extreme temperatures!
Exposure to UV rays and heat can aggravate perioral dermatitis. Wear a hat and sunglasses when you go outside and avoid direct sunlight. Use a sunscreen that is mineral-based and does not contain chemicals or fragrances. Avoid very cold or hot weather and use a humidifier or moisturizer to keep your skin moist.
Perioral dermatitis can be frustrating and embarrassing, but it is not a serious condition and it can be cured with proper treatment and care. Remember to follow your doctor’s advice and avoid the triggers that cause the rash. With patience and persistence, you can get rid of perioral dermatitis and enjoy clear and healthy skin again.
Ways to Prevent Perioral Dermatitis
Well, besides the treatment of this skin disease, there are certain preventive measures too. We have enlisted them for you to give a read and deal with facial rashes appropriately:
- Do not use topical steroids or corticosteroids on your face unless prescribed by your doctor.
- Use gentle and fragrance-free skin products that are suitable for your skin type and do not irritate your skin.
- Wash your face with warm water and mild soap twice a day and pat it dry with a soft towel.
- Avoid fluorinated toothpaste or oral care products that contain fluoride if you are allergic to it.
- Avoid exposure to UV rays, heat, cold, wind, or humidity that can aggravate your skin.
- Manage your stress and emotional factors that can affect your skin.
- Eat a healthy diet and drink plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and hydrated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can perioral dermatitis spread from one person to another?
No, perioral dermatitis is not a contagious condition. It is a type of facial rash that only affects your own skin.”
2. How can I tell if my perioral dermatitis is healing?
One of the first signs of healing is that your skin will start to peel and shed. This means that your perioral dermatitis is getting better. Another sign is that your skin will become less red, itchy, or burning. You will also notice a decrease in the number and size of the bumps and a reduction in the frequency of flare-ups. When you see these improvements, you can use less and less moisturizer on your skin.”
3. Can I apply tea tree oil for perioral dermatitis?
Tea tree oil may be useful if you suspect that Demodex mites are the cause of your perioral dermatitis. These are small parasites that live on your skin and may cause inflammation. Tea tree oil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can eliminate the mites and calm your skin. However, tea tree oil can be very potent and irritating, so make sure to mix it with another oil before applying it.”
4. What foods should I stay away from if I have perioral dermatitis?
Some foods may aggravate your perioral dermatitis, such as greasy, spicy, or processed foods. You should also avoid gluten, dairy, eggs, sugar, cinnamon and other similar spices, citrus fruits, nuts, caffeine, and alcohol. These foods may cause inflammation or allergic reactions in your skin. Instead, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich n vitamins A, B6, C, and folic acid. These vitamins can help heal your skin and enhance your immune system.”
5. How do I treat mild perioral dermatitis?
If your perioral dermatitis is mild, you can try zero therapy first. This means avoiding any topical products on your skin that may irritate it or cause allergic reactions. If zero therapy does not work, you can use tetracycline antibiotics or antifungal medicines along with a moisturizer that can help restore your skin barrier.”
6. Can Aquaphor help perioral dermatitis?
Aquaphor may help with perioral dermatitis because of its moisturizing, healing, and soothing properties. It can hydrate the skin, reduce redness and irritation, form a protective barrier on the skin, prevent water loss, and calm inflammation and itchiness. However, Aquaphor may not work for everyone with perioral dermatitis. Some people may be allergic or sensitive to some of the ingredients in Aquaphor, such as lanolin or fragrance. Also, some people may find Aquaphor too heavy or greasy for their skin type, which can clog their pores and worsen their condition.”
Summing it Up!
This comprehensive guide includes all major things you needed to know about Perioral Dermatitis. Remember that the skin concerns needs attention according to the severity of the disease. Do not forget to check with your dermatologist before you opt for anything because skin is too sensitive to experiment anything on!