Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser

Perioral Dermatitis Advice

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 — Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed

A patient advice sheet — 7 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.

Last reviewed: July 2026

The advice

A bumpy, irritated rash around the mouth (sometimes the nose and eyes), common in young women, and often linked to cortisone creams or heavy skincare products.
Step one: stop any cortisone cream on the face — and expect a temporary flare after stopping; this is expected and will pass. Do not go back to the cortisone "because it calms it" — it is what keeps the condition going.
Simplify your routine to the minimum: a gentle cleanser, one light moisturizer, and sunscreen — temporarily stop heavy creams, exfoliants and thick foundation.
The prescribed treatment (anti-inflammatory creams or tablets) needs 4–8 weeks — commitment and patience are essential.
The condition is benign, not contagious, and leaves no permanent mark.
After clearing, reintroduce your products one by one to identify the trigger.
Relapse can happen; come back early and never start a pharmacy cortisone on your own.

See also the full treatment page: Rosacea treatment — options, evidence and expected timelines.

My private clinic at Kuwait Hospital (Sabah Al-Salem) — direct assessment and a treatment plan built around your case.