How do you get perioral dermatitis?

The condition involves inflammation around the mouth and sometimes the nose or eyes. Potential contributors include topical corticosteroids, heavy or occlusive products, cosmetics, fragranced skincare, toothpaste residue, saliva and disruption of the skin barrier. Hormonal changes, weather and individual sensitivity may also influence flares.

Perioral dermatitis is not generally acquired through kissing or ordinary contact. Its bumps can resemble pimples, but acne treatments are not automatically suitable and may irritate the rash.

Review anything applied to the face, lips or hair, including steroid creams, moisturiser, makeup, sunscreen and styling products. Simplify cleansing, avoid scrubbing and stop adding new products while you observe the pattern. Do not make major prescription changes without advice, particularly if a steroid was used regularly.

A clinician can distinguish perioral dermatitis from acne, rosacea or contact dermatitis. Treatment may involve topical antibiotic therapy or oral antibiotics when appropriate.

Arrange medical review for a rash that persists, spreads, returns often or reaches the eyes. Seek prompt care for eye pain, vision changes, facial swelling, fever, pus or rapidly worsening redness and tenderness.

Which products or medicines could be contributing? Does the rash fit perioral dermatitis or another condition? If I use a steroid, how should it be managed? What treatment and follow-up plan fits the area involved?