treatment for perioral dermatitis,

[9magnolia]

Hi!

I'm female, 25, and I've been having a nasty skin rash (redness and red bumps) under my nose for the past 10 weeks and I finally went to see a dermatologist who told me that I have perioral dermatitis.
She prescribed gen-minocycline (pills) for three weeks and an acne cream neo-medrol.
My question is: Is three weeks of antibiotics long enough?? I did some research on the internet and it said almost everywhere that 1-2 months of anticbiotics is required, otherwise the rash will come back or not disappear at all.
Also I was wondering why my dermatologist presecribed an acne cream. The rash is still as red as ever. If it's not acne but perioral dermatitis, why an acne cream?  
Is there anything else I can do in terms of my lifestyle that might help the condition? e.g. I've been on the contraceptive pill for the past 8 years. Should I stop taking the pill?

Thank you very much for your help. I'm very depressed about this. I've always had clear skin and the rash is very noticable.

Laura.

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Perioral dermatitis, a condition related to acne vulgaris, consists of red papules that may appear microvesicular that typically affect the nasolabial folds, perioral area or perioccular area. It usually affects women between the ages of 20 and 45.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perioral_dermatitis

It is commonly caused by the use of fluorinated topical glucocorticoid steroids to this area.

It is treated in a similar manner to acne vulgaris with tetracycline antibiotics or erythromycin but, without the use of topical steroids.

Recently, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has been reported to be helpful, although large studies have not yet been performed.

Roaccutane has been used in patients with severe perioral dermatitis with some benefit. Do consult with a dermatologist regularly.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.