5 cares to relieve the symptoms of perioral dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is the appearance of a rash and redness in the area around the mouth. Reminds me of acne and rosacea a little, but it’s not the same problem. To talk more about the topic, dermatologist Giovanna Mori Almeida (CRM 157235), from Hospital Albert Sabin in SP, commented on the symptoms, treatments and care. Check out!

What is perioral dermatitis

Giovana explained that it is “a rash characterized by erythema, papules and pustules on the face. They appear around the mouth, especially in women in their second and third decades of life.” The dermatologist also commented that dermatitis may be related to the use of corticosteroids and moisturizing creams.

5 symptoms of perioral dermatitis to watch out for

As with other skin problems, perioral dermatitis has its characteristic symptoms and manifestations. Here’s what the dermatologist quoted:

• Redness: “it affects all or part of the lip region, mouth and chin”, explained Giovana.
• Itching: according to the dermatologist, “it appears in the affected regions and may be accompanied by flaking”.
• Papules and pustules: “they are eruptions and erythema that appear around the mouth”, commented Giovana. They may resemble rosacea or acne.
• Burning: the dermatologist commented that the patient may have the feeling that the skin is more sensitive and burns in the affected region.
• Skin peeling: “it happens exclusively around the mouth, but not on the lips themselves”, quoted Giovana.

The dermatologist pointed out that among the symptoms, the most common are redness and the presence of papules and pustules. Now, read on to learn about treatment and tips for relieving perioral dermatitis.

How to treat perioral dermatitis correctly

According to the doctor, the treatment consists of “withholding the steroid when there is previous use; only use corticosteroids in extensive cases; apply tacrolimus-based creams; use of antibiotics and, in resistant forms, treatment should be done with isotretinoin”. Giovana also recalled that it is important to have a dermatologist’s diagnosis, so that the professional can indicate the most appropriate treatment.

5 tips to relieve bothersome symptoms

Despite having treatment, the symptoms of perioral dermatitis can be bothersome and you may be looking for a way to relieve them. Giovana commented that the use of ointments should only be done with the dermatologist’s indication. In addition, she recommends:

1. Wash your face with soap suitable for your skin type

As the skin becomes more sensitive, the dermatologist stressed the importance of “using the type of soap that is suitable for your skin, whether oily, mixed or dry, as it helps to reduce irritation”.

2. Take care with the use of moisturizing creams

According to Giovana, “because they have an occlusive action (preventing the skin from losing water by evaporation), they can cause the skin flora to proliferate, triggering the eruptive condition”. Thus, it is best not to overdo it with moisturizing creams in this area of ​​the face and use the product that is suitable for your skin.

3. Do not sleep with your mouth open

“People who breathe through the mouth, especially when they sleep, end up drooling, allowing the saliva to stay in contact with the skin for a long time, as saliva is acidic, it can aggravate dermatitis”, explained the dermato.

4. Avoid products that harm the skin

As the region is more sensitive, it is not recommended to “exfoliate or use products that harm the skin”, commented Giovana.

5. In the case of babies, take care of the pacifier

The doctor mentioned that perioral dermatitis is more common in adult women, but can appear in babies. In this case, more attention is needed with the pacifier, also because of the saliva, “as it often gets stuck outside the mouth, between the pacifier and the skin, contributing to the rash”.

Have you ever heard of perioral dermatitis or dealt with its symptoms? If you notice changes in the skin around your mouth and near your chin, see a dermatologist you trust. Now, also check out the article on contact dermatitis.