What is perioral dermatitis and how do you treat it?
HLN, 8 April 2024
Small red bumps around the mouth? Dr Griet Voet explains in HLN what perioral dermatitis is, what triggers it and how to treat it.
After Hailey Bieber said she has had perioral dermatitis for years, Dr Griet Voet explains in HLN what this condition is. It involves small red bumps and pustules around the mouth, sometimes also around the nose and eyes, which mainly occur in women between 15 and 45 and are often mistaken for acne or rosacea.
According to her, the main trigger is the use of cortisone creams; greasy make-up can also make symptoms worse. After a diagnosis by a doctor, a suitable cream containing antibiotics can help, and sometimes tablets are needed. Azelaic acid can be useful, but is less suitable for sensitive or damaged skin.
She also recommends gentle cleansing and make-up that does not clog the pores.
Key advice
Do not use cortisone creams for longer than necessary and discuss alternatives with your doctor.
Choose gentle cleansing, such as micellar water or a thermal water spray.
Use make-up that is not too greasy and is labelled non-comedogenic.
Have the diagnosis made by a doctor: the condition resembles acne or rosacea.
“This condition is often confused with acne or rosacea.” — Dr Griet Voet
Want to know more? Read about Acne at Clinique Dermatologie Gent.