What is this?

For about 11 months I've had this recurring rash around my nose and now it's starting around my mouth. It usually comes in cycles. First, pauples appear, then they dry out and the skin becomes flaky and it peels off, then the process starts all over again. Is is Perioral Dermatitis? What should I do?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It can be due to perioral dermatitis. It is a chronic papulopustular and eczematous facial dermatitis. It appears around the nose, mouth and eyes. 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.
Doxycycline is the preferred antibiotic for perioral dermatitis but minocycline can also be used. In unresponsive and granulomatous forms, oral isoterinoin may also be considered. Pimecrolimus cream can also be used. I suggest you to consult a dermatologist and discuss these treatment options with your dermatologist.

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.