Metrogel periocular dermatitis, really need some help

Hi there,

Next week I will have been on Metrogel .075% a month for my periocular dermatitis under my right eye. Its only under the right eye. It came from a dermatoligist 3 years ago telling me it was okay to use Hydracortisone cream on my face for dryness/redness. Well I used it just about everday for 3 years and I heard its bad to use it for prolonged amounts of time. So I stopped completely. I developed the dermatitis several months ago, about 6 months ago. Its come and gone, I got fed up and I went to my doctor and he said to try Metrogel and see if its helps.

The metrogel is helping some. However my question is how long do I need to use it to see total results. My eye IS better however there is still one stubborn one that is taking forever to go away. I also have a cluster of pores under my eyes and I noticed its making some of the pores somewhat red. Not sure if that is normal.

However as I said, its been almost a month. I have seen improvement but am still not 100 percent clear, about 98 percent clear I would say. How long do I need to continue to use the metrogel to keep the dermatitis away for good? 2 months? Not sure how long I should use it. Also, I was on doxycycline however it upsets my stomach (with or without food) so I have to call my doctor on monday to try a different antibiotic. Anything you reccomend as far as an antibiotic? Also what about using Metrogel while taking an antibiotic at the same time? I have heard to really get rid of periocular dermatitis, you have to take an antibiotic for 30-60 days to get rid of it fully.

Oh and also, is it okay to use a lotion on top of it or aloe on top of it? I have been putting aloe or lubriderm sensetive skin lotion on my face for dryness however I keep it away from the eye that has the dermatitis.

Thanks,
Adam

[circulartrend]

Doctor? Bumping this to be seen please.

Also an update, my eye seems to be getting better however I still dont know how long to use it for. Also, can metrogel cause blackheads at all? Or aloe? Seems I have a few black heads where I apply the metrogel.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Metrogel is a topical antifungal and should be used only after prescription. Since you will be completing one month next week, so it is advisable to stop using it after consulting your dermatologist. Another possibility that needs to be evaluated is steroid induced rosacea. Steroid induced rosacea or dermatitis is an adverse effects of using steroids. Some patients develop steroid-induced rosacea within weeks of applying a topical steroid; others may not experience it for years.
Avoiding rosacea triggers, such as caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol, also may help clear the skin. Also use of antibiotic creams, antihistaminics, sun screens and tacrolimus(available by prescription) helps but consultation of a dermatologist is required first.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.