What should you know about infant perioral dermatitis?

Small red or skin-coloured bumps may cluster around the mouth, nose or eyes, with dryness, stinging or sensitivity. Saliva, food residue, rubbing and fragranced products can aggravate delicate skin. The condition page on [Perioral Dermatitis](/conditions/perioral-dermatitis/) gives wider context; [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) and [Sensitive Skin](/symptoms/skin-sensitivity/) can describe overlapping features rather than confirming the diagnosis.

Rinse residue gently with lukewarm water, pat dry and use only a simple fragrance-free moisturiser if your clinician recommends one. Avoid scrubbing, fragranced wipes, heavy occlusive products and licking or rubbing the area. Do not use a steroid cream or antibiotic treatment on an infant’s face unless prescribed; [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) can require careful supervision. A clinician may choose [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or another option after examining the rash.

Arrange an assessment if the rash is spreading, painful, crusted, oozing or close to the eye, or if your baby has fever, poor feeding or marked distress. Seek advice if it began after a new medicine or skin product. Prompt review helps distinguish this rash from infection, eczema or another cause of facial [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/).

Ask what may be irritating the skin, whether any current cream should stop, and how to protect the area during feeds. Bring the product packaging and describe when the bumps began and whether they flare after saliva or food contact.