Perioral Dermatitis
Pimples and flaking around the mouth
Perioral dermatitis looks like acne, but behaves differently. Small pimples and flaky skin around the mouth, nostrils or eyes — often in a band that leaves a narrow strip right next to the lips clear. It stings and feels tight, and rarely goes away on its own.
It’s one of those skin conditions where more skincare typically makes things worse. Many people find it appears after a period of using strong creams, and for some, improvement starts by cutting back rather than adding more. And yet skincare is almost always marketed as something to add.
That’s why the selection here is deliberately small and the same as for rosacea: the same products are tolerated by both skin types. The goal is a simple routine with just a few steps that lets your skin settle.
Who is it best suited for?
- You have pimples and flaking around your mouth or nostrils
- You suspect your current routine may be part of the problem
- You want to use as few products as possible
Perioral dermatitis is often treated with prescription medication, and some treatment plans recommend taking a break from cosmetics on the affected area. Talk to your doctor about what’s right for you.
