Early perioral dermatitis on Black skin

The bumps can be skin-coloured, pink, red-brown, purple-brown, or darker than nearby skin. Fine scaling, tightness, burning, and clusters of tiny spots may be more noticeable than redness. The skin immediately next to the lip border may remain relatively clear, while the nose folds, chin, and lower cheeks can be involved. It is different from ordinary acne, although it can resemble small [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/). Products, friction, and topical steroid use can worsen the pattern. Learn more about [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/) and [Sensitive Skin](/symptoms/skin-sensitivity/).

Simplify your routine: use lukewarm water, a bland cleanser, and a fragrance-free moisturiser that does not sting. Pause scrubs, exfoliating acids, fragranced products, heavy occlusive balms, and new cosmetics around the area. Do not start or stop a prescribed steroid without discussing the plan with the prescriber; stopping suddenly after regular use may cause a flare. A clinician may recommend a topical medicine or, when the pattern is widespread or persistent, an oral medicine. Options can include [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or [Oral Antibiotics For Acne](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antibiotics-for-acne/), selected for the diagnosis rather than self-treated as acne.

Book a dermatology review if bumps spread toward the eyes, keep returning, or leave persistent dark or light marks. Seek prompt care for eye pain, vision change, eyelid swelling, facial swelling, pus, or rapidly worsening tenderness. A clinician can distinguish perioral dermatitis from contact dermatitis, acne, infection, or a reaction to a product.

Ask which products to pause, how to handle any steroid already in use, whether pigmentation changes need separate care, and how long to continue the recommended treatment after the bumps improve.