Understanding and Treating Irritating Acne Around Mouth

Understanding Acne Around the Mouth

Acne around the mouth, also known as perioral dermatitis, can be an annoying and sometimes painful skin condition. Small red bumps appear around the mouth, chin, and even up along the side of the nose. These sensitive areas make even minor breakouts inconvenient to deal with.

What Causes Acne Around the Mouth?

Acne around the mouth has a few potential causes:

• Using thick facial creams or oil-based products can clog pores and lead to pimples.
• Fluctuating hormones during adolescence or menstruation often trigger breakouts.
• Stress, harsh weather conditions, and sun exposure may worsen acne.
• Nasal sprays containing corticosteroids allow medication to drain down and irritate facial skin over time.

Common Symptoms

The most common perioral dermatitis symptoms include:

• Clusters of small red or skin-colored bumps around mouth and chin
• Pus-filled pimples that may drain, crust, or scab
• Itchy, inflamed, or burning skin lesions
• Dry, scaly, flaky patches around the mouth and nasal creases

Diagnosing Perioral Dermatitis

To diagnose perioral dermatitis, dermatologists typically assess a patient's medical history along with symptoms and visual exam of the skin. They may ask questions to rule out contact dermatitis or other skin conditions with similar features.

Medical Tests

If the diagnosis remains unclear, doctors may perform tests like:

• Skin biopsy to examine tissue samples
• Patch testing to detect contact allergies
• Fungal tests to check for excess Candida growth

Differential Diagnoses

Conditions that present similarly to perioral dermatitis include:

• Rosacea - Chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes facial redness and pimples.
• Contact dermatitis - Skin inflammation triggered by irritants like cosmetics, metals, plants, etc.
• Candidiasis - Fungal infection that can overgrow around mouth, genitals, and fingernails.
• Lupus - Autoimmune disease that may cause a facial skin rash nicknamed "butterfly rash."

Perioral Dermatitis Treatment Options

Topical Creams

Mild topical steroid creams may treat perioral dermatitis by reducing inflammation. However, long-term use often worsens the condition. Non-steroid options include antibiotic gels containing metronidazole, azelaic acid creams, or tacrolimus ointment.

Oral Antibiotics

For moderate or severe cases, dermatologists often prescribe oral antibiotics like tetracycline or minocycline to eliminate bacteria contributing to infection and inflammation.

Lifestyle Changes

Certain lifestyle adjustments may aid perioral dermatitis healing, such as:

• Avoid skin irritants like fluoride toothpastes or heavy creams.
• Prevent sun damage and windburn with protective clothing/hats.
• Reduce stress through sufficient sleep, meditation, or counseling.
• Improve gut health and nutrient absorption with probiotic foods.

Preventing Recurrent Breakouts

Gentle Skin Care Regimen

Caring for sensitive skin prone to perioral dermatitis requires gentle cleansing with mild soap and water only. Avoid abrasive exfoliants or masks. Apply fragrance-free moisturizer if needed.

Watch Triggers

Flare ups often recur around the chin and mouth. Be aware of potential triggers like:

• Using fluoride toothpaste; switch to non-fluoride brand.
• Eating spicy foods that may irritate skin.
• Picking at scabs or popping pimples.
• Letting facial products get on or around the mouth.

Supplements

Some patients find relief from perioral dermatitis symptoms by taking oral supplements like:

• Probiotics to support healthy gut flora.
• Omega-3 fish oils to reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin D to assist immune regulation.
• Zinc to speed wound healing.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.