Perioral Dermatitis - recurrent

[iryna28]

Hi,

I've been dx w perioral dermatitis 11/2011. I have been on Elidel since then and recently added Doxycyclin 100mg daily 3 months ago. I notice that everytime I stop Elidel, the rahs comes back. I'm worried the antibiotics are not working. Is it possible that the Elidel was suppressing them? Any reason why it comes back so fast when I stop it (so far I've stopped it in 2/2012 and just recently). It does clear me up but once I stop, it all comes back. Any suggestions? I'm continuing to take the Doxy.

Thanks,

[iryna28]

Thank you for your response. My dermatologist has taken me off elidel completely last week and doubled up my Doxy to 100mg twice a day. She did say that my rash could get worse at first but eventually the Doxy should work. I am only using Cetaphil for my face.  My rash certainly returned as she advised. I'm have trouble understanding why the Elidel worked so well to clear it up but as soon as I stop it, everything returns? (seems was a temporary fix). After reading a lot on PD it seems it acted like a steroid almost, made skin better when used and rebounds as soon as its stopped. Im hoping the doubled up Doxy will work soon, but any suggestions/explanations behind why Dr has chosen to pull me off Elidel, knowing I'll get worse?

[Arti Sharma, M.D.]

Hello!
Perioral dermatitis is usually precipitated by topical steroids, cosmetics, inadequate face washing, moisturisers, sunscreens, inadequate face washing etc.Since you have been suffering from recurrent bouts take care to avoid these aggravating factors. It can take 6 to 12 weeks of treatment before the rash and irritation of the skin shows a significant improvement. Recurrence is common but it will generally respond to the same treatment that previously cleared it up. Elidel should be used only if other drugs have failed or if other medications are not considered appropriate by your doctor. Topical metronidazole, or erythromycin or clindamycin are effective alternatives. Clarify your doubts with your dermatologist. Do keep us posted.
Best regards!