Perioral Dermatitis - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
By ScanSkinAI Editorial Team✓ Reviewed for medical safetyLast updated June 2026
A rash of small red bumps around the mouth, nose, and sometimes eyes. It's more common in women and often related to steroid cream use.
Concerned this might be perioral dermatitis? Scan it with our AI skin checker for instant analysis, or use our AI mole checker for pigmented lesions. Browse all 80+ skin conditions in our directory.
Quick Answer
Perioral dermatitis is a common condition that causes a rash of small red bumps around the mouth, nose, and sometimes the eyes. Usually affecting women, it is frequently triggered by using topical steroid creams on the face, heavy moisturisers, or fluoridated toothpaste. The rash can cause burning or itching and often leaves a clear ring of normal skin immediately next to the lips. Treatment involves stopping steroids and simplifying your skincare routine, though a doctor may also prescribe oral antibiotics or topical treatments to help clear it up.
Symptoms
- Small red or pink bumps around mouth
- May have scaling or flaking
- Burning or itching
- Spares skin directly touching lips
- May affect around nose and eyes
Causes & Risk Factors
- Topical steroid use
- Heavy face creams
- Fluorinated toothpaste
- Hormonal factors
- Bacteria
Treatment & Management
- Stop topical steroids (may flare temporarily)
- Oral antibiotics (doxycycline)
- Topical metronidazole
- Gentle skincare
- Avoiding triggers
When to See a Doctor
If you develop a rash around your mouth, especially if using steroid creams
Frequently Asked Questions
What does perioral dermatitis look and feel like?
It typically appears as a collection of small red or pink bumps around the mouth, though it often leaves a narrow band of clear skin just next to the lips. The rash might also spread around your nose or eyes and is frequently accompanied by dry, scaling, or flaking skin. Instead of severe itching, many people report a burning or tight sensation in the affected areas.
Why did I suddenly get this rash around my mouth?
The most common trigger for perioral dermatitis is using prescription or over-the-counter steroid creams on your face. Even if a steroid cream seemed to help initially, it can eventually cause this rash. Other common causes include using thick or heavy face creams, fluorinated toothpaste, hormonal shifts, and certain bacteria. Discontinuing the trigger is an essential first step.
How do I get rid of perioral dermatitis?
The first and most crucial step is to stop using any topical steroids on your face, although be aware that the rash may temporarily worsen when you do. You will also need to switch to a very gentle skincare routine, avoiding heavy creams. A doctor is usually needed to prescribe oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, or topical medications like metronidazole to fully clear the inflammation.
Will this go away on its own if I stop using face creams?
In some cases, stopping all heavy face creams and topical steroids can allow the skin to heal on its own over a few weeks or months. However, when you first stop a steroid cream, the rash often flares up and looks worse before it gets better. Because it can be persistent and stubborn, many people eventually need prescription medication from a doctor to resolve it completely.
At what point should I see a doctor for a mouth rash?
You should consult a healthcare professional if you develop a persistent rash around your mouth, particularly if you have been using steroid creams on your face. A doctor can confirm what the rash is and provide a safe treatment plan. Also, seek medical advice if the condition is painful, spreading toward your eyes, or not improving after you have simplified your skincare routine.
Is perioral dermatitis the same thing as acne or eczema?
No, although it can look similar. While perioral dermatitis causes bumps like acne, it rarely produces blackheads or whiteheads. It can also appear red and flaky like eczema, which is why people often mistakenly treat it with eczema steroid creams. Unfortunately, steroids make perioral dermatitis worse in the long run. Proper medical evaluation is important because treatments for these conditions are very different.
What should I avoid putting on my face while I have this?
Keep your routine as simple as possible. Avoid applying heavy moisturisers, anti-aging creams, makeup, and harsh cleansers to the affected areas. Most importantly, do not apply any topical steroids or hydrocortisone, as these are primary triggers. Switch to a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, and consider using a non-fluoridated toothpaste to see if it helps relieve any irritation around your mouth.
How can ScanSkinAI help me evaluate this rash around my mouth?
ScanSkinAI can analyze photos of the bumps around your mouth and compare them to visual patterns typical of perioral dermatitis and other facial rashes. However, it is an educational screening aid only, not a diagnostic tool. Because facial rashes can closely resemble acne, rosacea, or eczema, you should always consult a doctor or dermatologist for a formal diagnosis and a safe, appropriate treatment plan.
Medical References
Information on this page is sourced from and verified against reputable medical resources:
Concerned About Your Skin?
Upload a photo and get instant AI-powered analysis across 80+ skin conditions. Track your condition over time with photo timelines, or use our dedicated AI mole checker for moles and pigmented lesions.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content on this page should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of your condition.