Skin care for perioral dermatitis

Perioral Dermatitis is an inflammatory rash that may cause clusters of small red bumps, dryness, burning, or tightness around the mouth; it can also affect the nose or eyes. It may resemble Pimples, but squeezing or treating it like ordinary acne can increase irritation. Skin Sensitivity may make fragranced or active products feel especially uncomfortable.

Use lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, or temporarily simplify cleansing if washing stings. Apply a bland moisturiser in a thin layer and pause scrubs, exfoliating acids, fragranced products, heavy makeup, and new actives. Do not start or stop a steroid cream without medical guidance, because Topical Corticosteroids can be associated with this rash or cause rebound worsening after withdrawal. A clinician may consider Topical Antibiotic Therapy or Oral Antibiotics For Acne depending on the examination.

Arrange an appointment if the rash persists, spreads toward the eyes, returns after treatment, or is affecting eating, sleep, or comfort. Seek prompt care for eye pain, vision changes, marked eyelid swelling, fever, pus, or rapidly worsening redness. Take photographs of flares and bring every cream, balm, toothpaste, and cosmetic used near the area.

Does this look like perioral dermatitis rather than acne or contact irritation? Should I change toothpaste or cosmetics? How should I taper any steroid I have used? Which treatment is suitable for the location and my skin sensitivity?