Perioral Dermititas

I have been diagnosed with Perioral Dermititas. I'm not sure what to do. They are prescribing me Elidel because I am allergic to the antibiotic. I've also went back to using Cetaphil on my face and the cream. Is this the right thing for me or are there other options. I had it very mild back in 06 and it went away, but they told me to use the cortizone and also gave me the steriod pack pills and a cream. I think I OD'd on all this steriod and cortizone and the doctor also thought so. So now I have its all over my chin and under my nose. Any suggestions???

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Perioral dermatitis is a chronic papulopustular and eczematous facial dermatitis.Treatment consists of oral antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. A mild soap or soap substitute, such as Dove or Cetaphil should be used for washing. Scrubbing should be avoided.

If the symptoms are not controlled by topical antibiotics,then oral antibiotics may be needed.Pls consult your dermatologist and discuss this with him.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional doubts.Kind regards.