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The most common causes of perioral dermatitis and effective treatment methods
Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes a rash and redness around the lips, sometimes extending towards the nose or under the eyes. It is a type of skin inflammation that appears as small red bumps or papules and can cause itching or burning, making lifestyle and skincare essential for managing it.
inflammation around the mouth is often associated with the prolonged use of topical steroid creams , as well as some skincare products, toothpaste, or even wearing masks for extended periods, as these change the environment around the sensitive skin and increase the likelihood of irritation.
Signs and symptoms of perioral dermatitis
The primary symptoms include a fine red rash around the lips , which may sometimes extend to the nose or under the eyes, occasionally accompanied by dry, flaky skin. Some people also experience itching and burning, and the condition worsens with the use of certain topical products containing irritating ingredients. In rare cases, the rash may appear around other areas, such as the genitals, requiring immediate consultation with a dermatologist to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.
Causes and risk factors
The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but several factors can increase the risk:
prolonged use of topical or inhaled steroid creams in children with asthma;
certain skincare products or toothpastes containing allergenic ingredients;
and wearing masks for extended periods, especially in people with sensitive skin, which can alter the skin barrier and cause irritation.
Women and girls are more susceptible, but it can occur at any age.
Diagnosis
In most cases, a visual examination by a dermatologist is sufficient to diagnose the condition. Occasionally, the doctor may take a skin sample to rule out other types of skin infections. Medical attention should be sought if a new and persistent rash appears, to prevent the condition from worsening or being confused with similar bacterial or viral infections.
Treatment and management
The first step is usually to stop using topical steroids and simplify your skincare routine by using a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser and a suitable moisturizer. If symptoms don't improve, your doctor may prescribe topical anti-inflammatory creams or, sometimes, short-term oral antibiotics to control the inflammation.
Prevention
Avoid using steroid creams without medical supervision.
Maintain a simple care routine, including gentle cleansing and daily moisturizing.
Protect your skin from the sun by using a suitable, non-greasy sunscreen daily.
Avoid products that have previously caused skin irritation.
complications
These symptoms are usually not serious complications, but they may lead to increased irritation before improvement, especially if topical steroids are continued. With proper care, symptoms improve gradually, which may take weeks or months, and recurrent episodes may sometimes occur after treatment.
Most affected groups
This condition is more common in women and young girls, and the rash appears more easily in people with fair skin compared to those with darker skin, as the redness and inflammation are harder to notice, which can delay diagnosis. However, it can also appear in children, with no significant differences between the sexes.
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