Face perioral dermatitis: what to know

The rash may look like tiny pimples, but it often leaves a narrow area next to the lip edge clear. It can also involve the creases beside the nose or the skin around the eyes. Cosmetics, heavy creams, irritation and steroid products may aggravate it; stopping a facial steroid can briefly make the rash flare. The condition is not the same as ordinary acne, and squeezing bumps can worsen inflammation. Read more about [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/), [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) and [Sensitive Skin](/symptoms/skin-sensitivity/).

Use lukewarm water and a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. Pause scrubs, fragranced products, thick occlusive creams and unnecessary makeup while the rash is active. Do not start or restart a steroid cream on the face unless a clinician has directed you. A dermatologist may prescribe a topical medicine such as [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or, for a broader eruption, an oral medicine; [Oral Antibiotics For Acne](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antibiotics-for-acne/) is a related treatment topic, but treatment choice depends on diagnosis and your health.

Arrange medical review if the rash persists, spreads toward the eyes, cracks, oozes or repeatedly returns. Seek urgent help for eye pain, marked eyelid swelling, vision changes, facial swelling with breathing difficulty, or rapidly worsening redness and tenderness. A clinician can distinguish this pattern from acne, rosacea, contact dermatitis or infection before choosing treatment.

Ask whether your products or steroid use could be contributing, which cleanser and moisturiser to use, whether treatment is needed near the eyes, and what to do if symptoms flare after stopping a steroid.