Perioral dermatitis is a common inflammatory rash affecting the area around the mouth, nasolabial folds and chin. It is characterized by redness, scaling and small pimples, accompanied by tingling and itching sensations. Rarely, rash may develop around the nostrils and eyes. It most often affects young women, aged between 20 and 40, but it can also occur in children.Causes of perioral dermatitis
The causes of perioral dermatitis often remain unknown. In some women, this condition is triggered by prolonged application of topical corticosteroids, used to treat some other infections. Sometimes lesions can occur as a result of the use of oily skin care creams, which lead to occlusion of the superficial pink layer and trigger an inflammatory skin reaction.
Some people are hypersensitive to fluoridated toothpastes, soaps, wet wipes. Use of oral contraceptives and sun exposure worsen the skin condition.Basic characteristics of perioral dermatitis
The lesions manifest as tiny red pimples or small nodules the same colour as the surrounding skin, 1 to 3 mm in diameter, around the mouth and on the chin. It is characteristic that the lesions do not appear in a narrow zone along the edge of the lips.
Tingling and itching sensations are present, along with a discreet whitish scales on the skin. This condition tends to last longer, with constantly present symptoms of variable intensity.
It can also spread to the skin around the nostrils, lower eyelids and nasal root.Treatment of perioral dermatitis
If perioral dermatitis is caused by the use of corticosteroid creams, the improvement and resolution of lesions can be observed within a few weeks of the end of the corticosteroids use. It is necessary to stop using oily creams that occlude the skin, and use regenerative fluids that accelerate skin regeneration instead.
The treatment is performed topically with creams that have an anti-inflammatory effect or systemic antibiotic therapy can be prescribed.
The complete resolution of lesions requires several weeks of application of the recommended therapy.