The DM:
Dear derm,
It’s my first winter with perioral dermatitis – help! What can I do to ease the inflammation?
Nicole J
The Derm:
Dr Anjali Mahto, consultant dermatologist & founder of Self London.
The iagnosis:
Dear Nicole,
Perioral dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition, but it can be upsetting when it occurs. There are a number of factors that can cause it to develop, so first it’s best to work out what may be triggering yours (it’s a good idea to speak to your GP or a dermatologist), then you can seek to eliminate potential culprits.
Here are the signs, causes and treatments to consider…
Recognise the signs
Perioral dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that typically appears as red, bumpy rashes around the mouth. It often presents as clusters of small, red or pinkish papules, which may be slightly scaly or dry. It can sometimes spread to the chin, upper lip and even the areas around the nose and eyes. Despite the name, perioral dermatitis is not a true form of dermatitis; instead, it is more akin to a type of rosacea and shares some similarities with acne.
Consider the cause
The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is not fully understood, but it is often linked to factors such as prolonged use of topical corticosteroids or hormonal changes. The other big culprit is using too many actives in your skincare routine. This can result in a compromised skin barrier which can then lead to perioral dermatitis (POD). It can also be aggravated by environmental triggers, such as heat, wind, and certain foods, particularly spicy foods. This condition is more common in women and can be persistent if not treated appropriately.
Speak to your GP or dermatologist about how best to treat it
Treatment usually involves discontinuing any topical steroids and minimising potential irritants. Dermatologists may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to reduce inflammation and treat any bacterial component. It’s also advised to use gentle skincare products, avoid harsh scrubs, and refrain from over-moisturising the affected area, as these can worsen the condition.
Implement a soothing at-home skincare routine
For perioral dermatitis, use a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser to cleanse without irritating [try the Cerave Hydrating Cream-to-Foam Cleanser]. Follow with a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser to hydrate without clogging pores [try the Purifide by Acnecide Microbiome Equalizer]. Products with no added fragrance or alcohol are best. Avoid heavy creams and oils that can worsen the condition. Sun protection is essential, so a mineral-based SPF (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) is recommended, as it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin [try Heliocare 360° Mineral Tolerance Fluid SPF50]. If needed, your dermatologist may suggest a topical antibiotic or an anti-inflammatory cream which can help soothe inflammation.
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