Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory skin reaction that causes red bumps and a rash around the mouth and nose and, in some cases, the eyes. It is often mistaken for acne or rosacea — but is distinguished by a characteristic clear band of unaffected skin right up to the lips. It most often affects women aged 20 and older, and with the right care, it is not necessarily chronic.
What is perioral dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes irritation and redness around the mouth and nose and, in some cases, the eyebrows and forehead. In short, it is caused by an imbalance in the skin. The condition alters the skin's texture and is often associated with social insecurity, and can generally cause discomfort in the face. Perioral dermatitis most often affects women aged 20 and older.
The redness may appear as small red bumps — with or without inflammation — and will likely spread over time if the inflammation is not brought under control.
Common causes of perioral dermatitis
There can be many causes of perioral dermatitis, and for most people, no single factor triggers the condition. Research points to a combination of microbiome imbalance, irritants, and hormonal factors. The most common causes are:
- Hair follicle mites (Demodex mites) — microscopic mites that live in sebaceous glands and hair follicles. When they multiply uncontrollably, they can trigger inflammatory reactions that resemble perioral dermatitis
- Strong steroid creams — one of the most common triggers, particularly with prolonged use of corticosteroids on the face
- Overly rich moisturizers — occlusive skincare that "seals in" the skin can disrupt its natural balance and create favorable conditions for bacteria and mites to thrive
- Neglecting to wash your face — a buildup of sebum, dirt, and bacteria worsens inflammation over time
- Fluoride in toothpaste — fluoride is a documented trigger, particularly when perioral dermatitis appears around the mouth
- Inhaled steroids — asthma medication taken via an inhaler can sometimes contribute to the condition
- Extreme weather conditions — wind, cold, and intense heat can further aggravate the condition
What to avoid with perioral dermatitis
With perioral dermatitis, what you stop doing is at least as important as what you start doing. Here are the four most common mistakes — they can keep the condition going, even when you do everything else right:
1. Steroid creams — even mild ones
Using a cortisone cream to quickly reduce redness may seem like an obvious solution. But steroids are actually one of the primary causes of perioral dermatitis. Although they provide short-term relief, the skin typically flares up even more severely when you stop using them. This can result in “steroid-dependent” skin that is much harder to treat than the original condition. Avoid steroid creams on the face altogether unless a dermatologist specifically prescribes them for another purpose.
2. Heavy, rich creams and oils
Rich, occlusive creams can block pores and provide ideal conditions for bacteria and Demodex mites to thrive. Instead of adding more moisture, switch to a lightweight, non-comedogenic cream that does not unnecessarily burden the skin.
3. Acid-based active ingredients — AHA, BHA and retinol
Exfoliating acids such as glycolic acid (AHA) and salicylic acid (BHA) are popular in many skincare products, but they are too harsh when perioral dermatitis is active. They can further damage the skin barrier and worsen inflammation. The same applies to retinol in most cases. Take a break from active ingredients until your skin has calmed down.
4. Strong toothpaste with fluoride and whitening effects
Fluoride is a documented trigger, particularly for rashes located close to the mouth. Try switching to a mild, low-fluoride toothpaste during flare-ups — and rinse thoroughly around your mouth after brushing.
Redness Relieving Cream — works where other creams fail
Zinc oxide and sulfur soothe active inflammation and redness caused by perioral dermatitis. Nature’s own ingredients in a mild, gentle formula.
Try Redness Relieving Cream →Treating perioral dermatitis
At NIMO SKIN, we are committed to helping you get rid of perioral dermatitis. Fortunately, this skin condition is not necessarily chronic, and with the right products, it can be cared for to the point where it no longer bothers you. Even if your skin condition seems overwhelming, remember that good results can be achieved in a surprisingly short time — and it all starts with a good, gentle facial care routine.
The products on this page have helped many people with this exact skin condition. With a combination of healthy products and good facial hygiene, you will most likely be able to enjoy having healthy skin before you know it.
With our face sets, you get everything your skin needs to overcome the challenges of perioral dermatitis:
-
DemSol Mild Foam Cleanser is developed for challenging skin conditions such as perioral dermatitis, rosacea and acne. It is designed to gently cleanse the face before applying ZZ Cream, but can also be used with any other day or night cream.
The ingredients have been carefully considered to be gentle on the skin, and as for the cleanser, it can also be said that it:
- Contains no fragrance
- Removes makeup
- Does not dry out the skin
- Does not sting the eyes
- ZZ Cream is our little miracle worker. In our opinion, it is the ultimate solution for those struggling with rosacea, acne or perioral dermatitis! Its unique formula, with ingredients such as zinc oxide, sulfur, glycerin and Chinese herbs, helps reduce redness, irritation and inflammation while keeping your skin hydrated and protected.
-
Finally, our face sets include a moisturizer tailored to your skin type. If you have normal to oily skin, choose the set that includes DemSol Moisturizer. This product absorbs into the skin quickly without leaving it greasy. Some of its great benefits include:
- Moisturizing and hydrating
- Reduces itching and redness
- Helps reduce acne scars
- Helps lighten dark spots on acne-damaged skin
- If, on the other hand, you have normal to dry skin, we recommend choosing the set that includes Grums Hydra Calm Cream. This cream is made with concentrated hydrating ingredients, along with extract from recycled coffee grounds, which provides protective antioxidants, caffeine and vitamin B3. The cream is perfect for both dry and sensitive skin, helping to increase the skin's moisture levels and support the skin barrier.
When should you see a doctor about perioral dermatitis?
Most people with perioral dermatitis can manage well with a consistent, gentle home skincare routine. But there are situations where it’s wise to seek professional help:
- The condition spreads rapidly to the cheeks, eyes or forehead within a short time
- You have used steroid cream on your face for more than 2-3 weeks — the dose should be tapered gradually, as otherwise the skin may flare up significantly
- Pustules containing pus appear or there are visible signs of a secondary bacterial infection
- The condition worsens despite proper care after 4-6 weeks of a gentle, consistent routine
- You are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a pregnancy — certain treatments require special consideration
A dermatologist can assess whether a short course of topical metronidazole — a gel that directly reduces inflammation — or oral antibiotics such as doxycycline may be needed. These treatments are effective, but work best in combination with a gentle daily skincare routine that does not further irritate the skin.
Frequently asked questions about perioral dermatitis
Can perioral dermatitis go away on its own?
In mild cases, perioral dermatitis may subside over time — particularly if you remove the underlying cause, such as a steroid cream or a heavy moisturizer. But for most people, an active and consistent skincare routine is needed to calm the condition. Without treatment, the redness and bumps may spread further.
Is perioral dermatitis contagious?
No, perioral dermatitis is not contagious and cannot be passed from person to person. The condition develops from within — as a reaction to triggers in your skin, your skincare products or your hormone balance. You can safely be around others without any risk of spreading it.
What is the difference between perioral dermatitis and rosacea?
Both conditions cause redness and bumps on the face, but there are important differences. Rosacea most often affects the cheeks and nose and is often associated with flushing — redness that comes and goes. Perioral dermatitis is more localized around the mouth and nose, and the skin right next to the lips is typically clear of rash. If you’re unsure about your diagnosis, it’s a good idea to see a dermatologist.
Can I wear makeup when I have perioral dermatitis?
It is recommended to minimize makeup on the affected area during an active flare-up — especially heavy foundations and concealers that can clog pores and worsen inflammation. If possible, choose mineral-based makeup without fragrance or silicone. And always cleanse thoroughly and gently in the evening — it’s one of the most important things you can do for your skin.
What are the best ingredients for perioral dermatitis?
Zinc oxide and sulfur are two of the best-documented ingredients for active inflammation in perioral dermatitis. Zinc has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, while sulfur helps regulate sebum production and combat Demodex mites. Avoid fragrance, alcohol, exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA), and steroids during the active phase.
What triggers a flare-up of perioral dermatitis?
The most common triggers are steroid creams, rich moisturizers, fluoride in toothpaste, stress, hormonal fluctuations — for example, around menstruation — UV radiation, and heat. A skin diary can help you identify your personal patterns: note what you used, ate, and experienced in the days leading up to a flare-up.
How long does it take to get rid of perioral dermatitis?
It varies from person to person. With a consistent, gentle routine, many see a clear improvement within 4-8 weeks. If the condition has been present for a long time or was triggered by steroid use, it may take a little longer — but stick with the routine. Good results can be achieved surprisingly quickly when the skin finally gets the right conditions.
Ready to give your skin some relief?
Redness Relieving Cream with zinc oxide and sulfur is formulated for sensitive skin with active inflammation. Simple, evidence-based, and gentle.
See Redness Relieving Cream here →References
- Habeshian KA, Cohen BA — Perioral Dermatitis (2020). StatPearls Publishing / NCBI Bookshelf.
- Sundhed.dk — Perioral dermatitis — The Medical Handbook. Danish Health Authority.
- Nguyen V, Eichenfield LF — Perioral Dermatitis (2018). StatPearls. PubMed PMID: 30247843.
- Tüzün Y et al. — Sulfur and Its Derivatives in Dermatology: Insights Into Therapeutic Applications (2025). PMC / National Library of Medicine.
- Gupta M et al. — Effects of Zinc Supplementation on Inflammatory Skin Diseases: A Systematic Review (2020). PubMed PMID: 31745908.
0 comments