Perioral dermatitis (or periorificial dermatitis, POD) is a chronic skin condition that typically affects the face, causing redness, pimples, and sometimes flakiness around the mouth and eyes. Though it can affect anyone, it most commonly affects young women in their 20s and 30s. While the condition is not dangerous, it can be frustrating to manage without the right approach. In this post, we’ll dive into what POD is, how to treat it, and how to avoid common pitfalls.
What is Perioral Dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a type of skin irritation that primarily affects the area around the mouth, though it can sometimes extend to the eyes and other facial areas. It is considered a subtype of rosacea, a condition known for facial redness, pimples, and irritation. While both conditions share some common features, POD has a distinct pattern of redness and pimples that helps differentiate it from other forms of skin irritation.
This condition can appear in clusters of small, red bumps or pimples, often accompanied by a feeling of tightness or sensitivity in the affected skin. It's important to note that POD can be mistaken for other conditions, like eczema or acne, so proper diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Causes and Triggers
The exact cause of POD is still unclear, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:
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Excessive sun exposure
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Skin care products that irritate or sensitizing the skin
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Certain foods or triggers (which may vary from person to person)
Understanding and avoiding triggers can help reduce flare-ups. For instance, excessive sun exposure can worsen the condition, so it's important to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight on the face. Similarly, taking note of any foods or habits that seem to make the condition worse can help you avoid them.
Skin Care for Perioral Dermatitis
If you have POD, it’s essential to be mindful of your skin care routine. The skin in the affected areas tends to be more sensitive, so any harsh products can make the condition worse. Here are some tips for managing the irritation:
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Moisturize Regularly When your skin becomes irritated, it can lose its natural ability to retain moisture, leading to further dryness. Using a gentle, occlusive moisturizer can help restore moisture and protect the skin barrier. Petroleum jelly (in small amounts) or shea butter are great choices for keeping the skin hydrated without causing irritation.
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Avoid Harsh Skin Care Products Steer clear of exfoliants, toners, or serums that might irritate or dry out your skin. Also, avoid scrubbing or cleansing with abrasive cloths, as this can worsen the condition. Use lukewarm water to wash your face, and opt for gentle cleansers like coconut oil, sunflower oil, or argan oil to remove makeup and impurities.
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Be Gentle with Sun Exposure While some sun exposure can be beneficial for the skin, too much can trigger a flare-up. It's best to wear sunscreen on your face every day and avoid extended sun exposure. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is ideal.
Treatments for Perioral Dermatitis
Unlike other skin conditions, POD can be aggravated by topical steroids. Many people mistakenly apply steroid creams to their face, thinking it will help with irritation, only to find that the condition worsens. In fact, steroids can cause POD to flare up or rebound when the medication is stopped.
Treatment usually involves topical antibiotics, such as metronidazole, which are effective in reducing the inflammation and pimples associated with the condition. Other medications, like topical anti-inflammatory agents or oral antibiotics, may also be prescribed depending on the severity of the condition.
It's important to be patient, as POD typically takes two to three weeks to show improvement with the right treatment. Avoid the temptation to stop the treatment early, even if you see some improvement, as this can lead to a relapse.
Managing Expectations
Perioral dermatitis is a chronic condition, meaning it may come and go over time. While it is possible to control it effectively with the right treatments, it may not be entirely "cured." With proper skin care, however, most people can keep the condition under control and minimize flare-ups.
It's essential to manage your expectations and understand that the condition may persist for months or even years. That said, with proper care, you can significantly reduce the impact it has on your life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dealing with POD, the key to managing it is understanding the triggers, treating it appropriately, and sticking to a gentle skin care routine. Be cautious with topical steroids, and consult a dermatologist to find the best treatment plan for your needs. Most importantly, take a patient, long-term approach to your skincare, and avoid aggravating the skin with harsh treatments.
If you found this helpful, subscribe to Dr. Bibi's Newsletter for cutting edge skincare and share this article. For further insights into skincare simplification, check out my book "Sick Skin - Skin Care Made Simple" on Amazon, now available in audio.
Thanks for reading and God bless.
Yuval Bibi, MD/PhD - Board Certified Dermatologist
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