IRRITATED SKIN AROUND THE MOUTH, MAY BE PERIORAL DERMATITIS
The appearance of redness on the face and the development of small cells and individual vesicles can indicate a complex skin disorder called perioral dermatitis, which in some cases can be confused with acne. It is a common type of facial dermatitis, as the name suggests, occurring around the (peri) mouth (oral).
Perioral dermatitis is most common in women aged 20 to 50 years, but can also occur in children. Due to the increasing use of cosmetics, the incidence in men is also increasing. The incidence of perioral dermatitis has also increased in recent years due to the wearing of protective masks during the epidemic.
Rashes and redness are very persistent and hurt self-image, as they cannot be covered with foundation when they worsen. Burning, tightening, and itching of the skin may occur. In the case of these problems, a visit to a dermatologist will be necessary, as in most cases improvement cannot be expected without appropriate measures and treatment.
HOW DO YOU RECOGNISE PERIORAL DERMATITIS?
Outbreaks appear as small red cells (papules and pustules), mainly in the crease between the nose and mouth. The cells, about the size of millet or peppercorns, begin to aggregate into larger areas or plaques, which can spread to the cheek, the eye area, and even the forehead. Pustular vesicles may appear. It is distinguished from acne by the absence of comedones and rosacea, unlike perioral dermatitis, has no lesions around the mouth and eyes.
WHAT CAUSES PERIORAL DERMATITIS?
There can be several triggers for perioral dermatitis:
– Excessive use of ointments containing corticosteroids. A flare-up of dermatitis usually occurs after stopping the use of these ointments. – Hormonal influences. The condition may worsen in the days before menstruation. Mechanical irritation of the skin (chin) combined with infections with certain parasites, yeasts. – Use of fluoridated toothpaste, toothpaste with sodium lauryl sulfate (pencil). Use alcohol-based mouthwashes and alcohol moisturising wipes. – Aggressive cosmetics (ointments and creams) containing petrolatum, paraffin, or isopropyl myristate – Intestinal problems causing poor absorption of nutrients from the intestine.
WHAT STEPS WILL THE DERMATOLOGIST TAKE?
First, investigate which ointments have been used on the face and identify other triggers of perioral dermatitis. Depending on the possible cause and the condition of the skin, he/she may prescribe an antibiotic ointment (metronidazole, erythromycin) in an appropriate ointment base. However, recent research indicates the effectiveness of treatment with an anti-inflammatory cream containing pimecrolimus.
In more severe cases of pustular eruptions, a dermatologist may prescribe systemic therapy – taking an antibiotic with tetracycline. This antibiotic is long-lasting (6 weeks), and during the treatment, the sun, dairy products, and calcium supplements should be avoided.
PERIORAL DERMATITIS AND WHAT CAN WE DO FOR OURSELVES?
First of all, we need to remove the triggers (fluoride toothpaste, SLS, etc.) that promote dermatitis, as well as sufficient sleep, a healthy lifestyle, and the use of appropriate body products.
Eliminate hot, spicy, and acidic foods, smoked meats, and chocolate. Avoid alcohol, coffee, and cocoa. Rapid changes in temperature, heat, steam, and wind can also aggravate the condition.
Never apply corticosteroid ointments to the face again, unless otherwise instructed by your dermatologist. Although corticosteroid ointments may temporarily improve the condition, dermatitis may flare up again after use is stopped. This can lead to a vicious cycle of repeated flare-ups.
Cold compresses can be tried during the outbreak period. Soak gauze in cooled boiled water or saline and place it on the affected skin areas for 15 minutes twice a day.
We cut out all aggressive cosmetics with alcohol, fragrances, etc. from our daily face care routine. In the case of extremely dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, a nourishing emulsion or a layer of olive oil may be used to ensure adequate protection and elasticity.
For intensive moisturisation, regeneration, and soothing of the skin, we recommend OXILVER skincare products. When the solution or gel comes into contact with the skin, an active form of oxygen is released, which provides a mild antiseptic effect, cleanses the skin, and inhibits microbial growth. OXILVER® Skin Gel is preferable for use on the face and OXILVER® Skin Solution is preferable for use on the body in the form of a spray.
