Do you have a red rash around your mouth that is dry, scaly, and burns? It can be eczema around the mouth, also known as perioral dermatitis, a kind of skin problem. It can be quite disturbing and even be painful in some situations. In this blog, let’s find out the cause of this skin issue and its treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Eczema around Mouth?
The most prominent sign of this skin condition is obviously the rash around the mouth. Other than this, you may experience the following symptoms in perioral dermatitis:
- rash around the mouth that is scaly or flaky
- Inflammatory lumps
- vesicles (clear fluid-filled lumps)
- pustules (white fluid-filled bumps)
- Itching or burning sensations
Although it is most commonly observed around the mouth, perioral dermatitis can spread to the eyelids or around the eyes and nose. It can also manifest itself on your genitals, scalp, ears, neck, limbs, and trunk.
What are the Common Causes of Eczema around Mouth?
Researchers are still trying to find the exact cause of eczema around the mouth, but a few possible reasons for developing this skin problem can be:
- Using topical steroid creams
- Using or inhaling Steroid nasal sprays
- Certain Face reams
- Hormonal changes
- Using oral contraceptives
- Problems with the immune system
- Bacterial infections
How Long does Perioral Dermatitis Last for?
Perioral dermatitis might last months or even years. Although there is no cure, long-term remissions are conceivable. The rash sometimes goes away and then returns. The same therapies that were effective the first time are likely to be effective again.
What are the Risk Factors for Perioral Dermatitis?
Some individuals are susceptible to or are at risk of acquiring perioral dermatitis. Among the risk factors are:
- Genetics
- Being a female because women are more prone than males to acquire this condition
- Being young and middle-aged
- Having a history of allergies
- Hormonal imbalances
What are the Preventive Measures?
Some preventive measures that you can take to avoid getting eczema around the mouth and stop its spread to the other areas of your face and body include:
Avoiding Steroid Creams or Sprays:
The use of a topical steroid (steroid creams, gels, ointments, etc.) is well-known to cause perioral dermatitis. Many people develop rashes shortly after using a topical steroid on the face for another skin problem, such as moderate eczema.
Strong topical steroids are more likely to cause perioral dermatitis than weaker ones. If your doctor has prescribed any steroid creams or ointments, make sure to inform them that you get rashes due to them.
Making Lifestyle Changes:
Taking care of your hygiene, eating clean, and being more physically active can be helpful in preventing skin conditions like eczema.
Skin Care and cosmetics:
It is recommended to use skincare and makeup products after consulting with your skin specialist as they can cause flareups and reactions as well. Moreover, Heavy face creams should be avoided as they can increase the symptoms of perioral dermatitis.
What are the Home Remedies for Eczema?
A few home remedies for eczema that you can easily try at home have been listed below:
Aloe Vera Gel
For centuries, people have utilized aloe vera gel to heal a variety of diseases. Your eczema can even get better just after applying aloe vera gel once. It has antibacterial and antimicrobial agents that strengthen the immune system and help in healing, soothing and repairing the injured skin.
Oats Face Mask
Oats are great for your skin problems like dryness, flaky skin, roughness, and itching. You can use oats powder mixed with water and honey to make a face mask to help with eczema around the mouth.
Honey
Honey, when applied directly to eczema-affected skin, may help prevent infections while hydrating and accelerating recovery. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities are great at soothing skin and controlling inflammation. You apply some honey to your face on the affected area and wash it after 10 to 15 minutes.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is frequently used to treat skin conditions such as eczema because of its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing qualities. It may aid in the relief of skin dryness and irritation, as well as the prevention of infections.
What is the Treatment for Eczema Around Mouth?
Your doctor might suggest you the following treatments for perioral dermatitis:
- Oral antibiotics
- Topical antimicrobial creams and lotions
Some other things to avoid during the treatment of eczema around the mouth include:
- stop using any topical steroid creams, including over-the-counter hydrocortisone
- use a gentle soap
- stop using exfoliators and scrubs on your face
- try discontinuing the use of fluoridated toothpaste
Consulting a Doctor
If you believe you have perioral dermatitis, avoid applying any ointments or lotions to your face. This alone may help to improve the situation. However, it’s advisable to consult a doctor as soon as the rash appears in case it’s caused by one of the other disorders listed above.
You can consult with some of the best online dermatologists at the lowest rates only through Marham.