rash arounf mouth

Over the last few months I have developed a painful rash around my mouth. At first it started as one spot, similar to a pimple, which did not dissapear. I then developed further spots which began to spread. Now my rash is on my chin, around my mouth and under my nose. It is red in colour, and rash like with little cluster of pimples within it. It is very sore and seems to clear up a little and then gets worse- week by week. I am not taking any medication for it, although I have taken elacon cream previously. Any advise is greatly appreciated. I have never has problem skin before and am 27 yrs old.  

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Sorry, but I can't tell from your description what you have.  You'll need to see a doctor in person for diagnosis and treatment.  If the rash has been there for months, then it's probably some form of eczema, rather than an infection.  It may also be a kind of rosacea, perhaps aggravated by Elocon.  So don't use anything on it for now--just soap, water, and non-medicated moisture lotion.  And see a doctor as soon as you can.

Best.

Dr. Rockoff