Perioral Dermatitis

I.          Definition:
 
Perioral dermatitis is a rash composed of tiny red bumps that are primarily around the mouth, but can also be seen around the nose and on other areas of the face.
 
 
II.          Causes:
 
·          Perioral dermatitis is a disease that occurs mostly in young and middle-aged women.
 
·          Perioral dermatitis can be caused by prolonged therapy with topical corticosteroids (hydrocortisones).
 
·          The contraceptive pill, fluorinated toothpaste, cosmetic usage and emotional stress can worsen perioral dermatitis.
 
·          The affected area is often worsened by sunlight and almost always by wind, heat, chlorinated pool water and even by washing with hot water.
 
·          If you have this condition, premenstrual flare ups are common.
 
 
III.          Treatment:
 
·          The first step in treating perioral dermatitis is to discontinue all topical corticosteroids.
 
·          Oral tetracyclines four times a day for about three weeks is a successful source of treatment.  Minocin and doxycycline are also effective treatments.
 
·          There is no medicine that you can apply directly to the skin which will help perioral dermatitis.