A Skin Outbreak around my mouth

Hi,  I recently used a over the counter skin cleanser called  Acne Free.  I don't know if this contributed to my problem but my mouth became very irritated, dry, sore, and now I have small looking white head type things appearing around my mouth.  I have, since I was a little girl had what we call cold sores (a form of herpes) that occur if I get very stressed out which I have taken Zovirax for in the past.  This is not anything like that though.  Any thoughts?

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

This could be perioral dermatitis, which presents as a facial rash that tends to occur around the mouth. Most often it is red and slightly scaly or bumpy. It may spread up around the nose, and occasionally the eyes while avoiding the skin adjacent to the lips.

There may be more than one cause of perioral dermatitis. One of the most common factors is prolonged use of topical steroid creams and inhaled prescription steroid sprays used in the nose and the mouth. Overuse of heavy face creams and moisturizers are another common cause. Other causes include skin irritations, fluorinated toothpastes, and rosacea. If it persists, it would be good to see your doctor for further evaluation and management.

Take care and regards.