Perioral dermatitis (1838)

Key points below


What is perioral dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is a skin rash found on the face. It looks like tiny red pimples around the mouth. It also may be around the eyes, nose, and on the chin. The rash may be dry and scaly. 
The exact cause is not known. It may be from previous use of topical steroids.

perioral

How is it diagnosed?

A physical exam is done. Normally no tests are needed. 

How will it affect my child?

The rash is not serious. It may bother your child because of how it looks. Sometimes the rash may itch or burn. Perioral dermatitis cannot be spread from one person to another. Your child can continue to go to school and daycare. 

What might irritate perioral dermatitis?

How is it treated?

The rash may clear without treatment. Antibiotic medicine can be taken by mouth or put on the skin. The rash may need to be treated for a number of weeks or even months before it clears. If your child’s rash has been treated before with topical steroids, it may look worse before it improves. If the rash comes back, it can be treated again. 

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.