Red patches around corner of mouth

[JAF12345678]

Can anyone tell me what this is or if they've experienced it? When I took the picture it wasn't very inflamed. After a shower or exercise it is much worse. Its been getting progressively worse the past few months.. My face is usually pretty flush and it doesn't really bother me but this makes me look like a clown.. literally.

[JAF12345678]

I don't have any pimples or anything like that. It's just red. Doesn't even itch.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to contact dermatitis or perioral dermatitis. 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.

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.