Redness, Dryness Around Nostrils For Years

So i've had redness and dryness around my nostrils for like 3 years now. its very annoying. its not itchy or anything but sometimes it gets a little dry. i went to a dermatoligist and he gave me some lotion and told me that what i had wasn't treatable, but it could be maintained so it won't get worse. but i have no idea what it was. and i stopped using it because nothing changed. should i go to another doctor and see what it is?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Although it is difficult to judge from the picture but from the description of your symptoms,it sounds like seborreic dermatitis. Seborrheic dermatitis is a common skin condition that causes flaky,dry, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas esp under the nose or anywhere on face. You can treat flaking and dryness with over-the-counter dandruff or medicated shampoos. Shampoo the hair vigorously and frequently (preferably daily). Active ingredients in these shampoos include salicylic acid, coal tar, zinc, resorcin, ketoconazole, or selenium.Also use a mild (1%) steroid cream and lubriderm lotion on the reddened areas and do not rub or mess with it.

If the symptoms persist,then it would be best to get it confirmed from a dermatologist

Hope it helps. Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing if you have any additional queries.