The exact cause of perioral dermatitis is not known. However, it may appear after topical steroid creams are applied to the face to treat other conditions.
Treatments for POD:
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been reported to be helpful for perioral dermatitis (POD) although large studies have not yet been performed.
- Certain supplements that improve skin conditions may be recommended such as Vitamin D3 and pycnogenol.
- Carboxytherapy
- IV Infusions with Ozone have shown to be helpful
- Biopuncture treatments for inflammation
- Various barrier repairing treatments and products have been helpful in treating the sensitivity experienced with POD. Visit out Online Store for incredible product options.
Please note: When starting a treatment plan, patients have to be aware that initial deterioration may occur, especially if they previously used a topical steroid. The use of all topical preparations, including cosmetics, should be avoided except the prescribed medication. The patient should be advised that remission might not occur for weeks, despite correct treatment.
What causes this condition?
An underlying cause of the perioral dermatitis (POD) cannot always be detected in all patients.
Note the following:
- Drugs: Many patients abuse topical steroid preparations. No clear correlation exists between the risk of perioral dermatitis and strength of the steroid or the duration of the abuse. Perioral dermatitis has also been reported after the use of nasal steroids and steroid inhalers.
- Cosmetics: Fluorinated toothpaste; skin care ointments and creams, especially those with a petrolatum or paraffin base, and the vehicle isopropyl myristate are suggested to be causative factors. In an Australian study, applying foundation in addition to moisturiser and night cream resulted in a 13-fold increased risk for perioral dermatitis. The combination of moisturiser and foundation was associated with a lesser but significantly increased risk for perioral dermatitis, whereas moisturiser alone was not associated with an increased risk. Recently, physical sunscreens have been identified as a cause of perioral dermatitis in children. Physical factors: UV light, heat, and wind worsen perioral dermatitis.
- Microbiologic factors: Fusiform spirilla bacteria, Candida species, and other fungi have been cultured from lesions. Their presence has no clear clinical relevance. In addition, candidiasis is suggested to provoke perioral dermatitis.
- Miscellaneous factors: Hormonal factors are suspected because of an observed premenstrual deterioration. Oral contraceptives may be a factor. Gastrointestinal disturbances, such as malabsorption, have been considered as well.
