What should you know about prescription for perioral dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis causes small red bumps, dryness, burning, or scaling around the mouth and sometimes the nose or eyes. It can resemble [Pimples](/symptoms/pimples/) but is managed differently from ordinary acne. [Sensitive Skin](/symptoms/skin-sensitivity/) may make cosmetics, heavy creams, toothpaste ingredients, or steroid creams feel particularly troublesome, although the trigger is not always obvious.

Use prescribed medicine consistently and apply it only as directed. A clinician may choose [Topical Antibiotic Therapy](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-antibiotic-therapy/) or an oral medicine such as [Oral Antibiotics For Acne](/treatments/medical-dermatology/oral-antibiotics-for-acne/), depending on the pattern and severity. Do not start or stop a steroid cream without medical guidance; [Topical Corticosteroids](/treatments/medical-dermatology/topical-corticosteroids/) can be relevant to the history and may worsen or mask this condition. Keep cleansing gentle and pause non-essential fragranced or occlusive products while the skin settles.

Arrange a review if the rash reaches the eyes, becomes painful, develops crusting or discharge, or fails to improve with the prescribed plan. Seek urgent care for facial swelling with breathing difficulty or rapidly spreading redness. A clinician can also check whether another condition is causing the bumps before changing treatment.

Could any steroid, cosmetic, sunscreen, or toothpaste be contributing? Which products should I pause? How long should I use the prescription? What should I do if the rash worsens after treatment begins?