Small red bumps around your mouth are not always acne. Share clear photos, when the rash started and the creams you use with a licensed clinician to discuss perioral or periorificial dermatitis and treatment options. Insurance or $50 self-pay.
Eye pain, vision change, fever or rapidly spreading painful redness needs prompt in-person assessment. A persistent or uncertain rash may need dermatology review.
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Perioral dermatitis causes clusters of small inflamed bumps around the mouth, often with dry or burning skin. Similar bumps near the nose or eyes are called periorificial dermatitis. Unlike acne, blackheads are usually absent; rosacea and contact dermatitis can look similar. Facial steroid creams may trigger or worsen the rash, and abruptly stopping a potent steroid can cause a rebound flare, so discuss a withdrawal plan with your clinician. Gentle cleansing, fewer irritating cosmetics and an individually selected topical treatment are common first steps; more extensive disease may need an oral antibiotic after review of pregnancy, medicines and other risks. Improvement takes weeks rather than overnight. Eye pain, visual change, fever or rapidly spreading painful redness needs prompt in-person assessment.