Perioral dermatitis is a rash around the mouth that appears as red skin and small acne-like bumps. It primarily affects young women between the ages of 16 and 45, accounting for 90% of cases.
The exact causes of the condition are unknown, but it is suspected that infection with bacteria or viruses may be involved. The use of corticosteroid creams and ointments often worsens the condition, and treatment typically involves antibiotics.
One of the first symptoms of perioral dermatitis is a red rash appearing around the mouth. This rash may be dry or flaky or scaly. More often than not, there are also inflamed bumps present called papules. While it is most common around the mouth, perioral dermatitis can also spread to the eyelids, around the eyes, and the nose. It can also appear on the scalp, ears, neck, trunk, and genitals. The rash can cause a burning or itching sensation.
A clear cause for perioral dermatitis has not yet been identified. However, doctors and experts have seen a connection between perioral dermatitis and the use of topical corticosteroids as well as bacterial and viral infections. Other aggravating factors include the use of occlusive topical cosmetic products (paraffin, foundation creams, or sunscreens), microbiologic factors, contact allergens, or tartar-control products. Other hormonal factors can lead to the worsening of perioral dermatitis in women, especially during pregnancy, the premenstrual period, or when they are taking oral contraceptives.
One of the first steps of perioral dermatitis treatment is to stop using nasal sprays containing steroids or topical steroid creams. These products can aggravate the symptoms making the condition even worse. For individuals witnessing the symptoms, it is of paramount importance to visit a doctor or to undertake the perioral dermatitis treatment online.
More than often the severity of the condition dictates the perioral dermatitis treatment that is recommended. In the earlier stages of the condition, patients would be advised to discontinue using their earlier skin creams and fluorinated toothpaste to ease the symptoms.
Other treatments could include the likes of variations in diet and lifestyle. Patients suffering from the condition can consider:
Apart from dietary and lifestyle changes, patients can also be prescribed medicines to treat the condition.
Whilst there have been advancements in perioral dermatitis treatment(s), the most burning question is around how it can be prevented in the first place. One must avoid face creams and topical steroids. It is also advised to visit a healthcare provider as soon as the symptoms are noticed.
Once treated, individuals must only use a fragrance-free mild soap or a soap substitute to wash and must avoid using products that were used before the rash.
Though there are no known foods or medicines that can prevent the occurrence of perioral dermatitis, one must at any cost avoid topical steroids as they are one of the most likely causes of the rash.
More than often, individuals having perioral dermatitis do not consult with a dermatologist until the condition has progressed. Visiting a dermatologist early can help identify the underlying cause of perioral dermatitis and initiate proper treatment. Normally you should expect the dermatologists to treat the condition within 12 weeks.
The recurrence of perioral dermatitis is not uncommon, especially if the time frame of systemic therapy is not sufficient. With adequate perioral dermatitis treatment, patients should have an excellent prognosis, but if left untreated, the disease can linger for months or years. If left untreated, perioral dermatitis can be burdensome to the patient’s mental health and permanent scarring.
Treatment of perioral dermatitis with oral or topical antibiotics together with eliminating any underlying causes such as topical steroid use is often sufficient to heal the condition. It is also worth mentioning that perioral dermatitis treatment online is an efficient and effective alternative to a physical consultation. During online perioral dermatitis treatment, the patient will upload pictures of their condition and list down information about the symptoms and irritations they are experiencing. A dermatologist will review the picture and text information for the condition and respond with a diagnosis and available treatment options for the patient.
An appointment with a dermatologist is the first step towards perioral dermatitis treatment. It is advised that the patient consults with a dermatologist as soon as he/she notices any symptoms for early diagnosis and treatment. The patient should be vocal about any medication or other substance use and the use of cosmetics such as creams and makeup. The dermatologist could have follow-up questions such as materials one uses to wipe their face and other substances that could have come in contact with the skin. This will help the dermatologist analyze and eliminate the root cause of perioral dermatitis and initiate proper treatment.
Perioral dermatitis is a common form of a rash that is not contagious.
Gluten intolerance or an undiagnosed allergy can be one of the main triggers for perioral dermatitis. Going on a low-carb gluten-free diet can help stop the condition from getting worse. In addition, one should look at avoiding salty and spicy meals while suffering from the condition.
Although there is no concrete evidence, some people have noticed that the condition of their perioral dermatitis gets worse when exposed to sunlight.
While perioral dermatitis is not caused by hormones, a number of hormonal factors can contribute to the worsening of the condition, especially during pregnancy, during the premenstrual period and/or due to the use of contraceptives.
At Dr.Dropin you can come to experienced dermatologists who can diagnose and treat all skin disorders. Dr.Dropin is committed to offering good skin services at a fixed and predictable price, and with a short waiting time.
