Dermatologist for Perioral Dermatitis in NYC

Perioral dermatitis—also called periorificial dermatitis—is a common skin condition that often requires the expertise of a board-certified dermatologist. At Aglow Dermatology in Manhattan, New York City, we help patients get relief from this frustrating rash with accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.

What Is Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is a type of facial rash that typically develops around the mouth. In some cases, the condition is referred to as periorificial dermatitis because it can also occur in other areas around the facial openings—such as around the nose and eyes. It can be tricky to diagnose as it often looks like a combination of acne and seborrheic dermatitis.

This condition is more common in young women and is considered a type of rosacea, although it tends to be less chronic and more short-lived than classic rosacea. Perioral dermatitis, however, may not respond as well to topical treatment as does rosacea.

Causes of Perioral Dermatitis

Several factors can contribute to the development of perioral dermatitis, including:

• Overuse of topical corticosteroid creams
• Inhaled or nasal steroid sprays
• Fluoridated toothpaste
• Heavy face creams or moisturizers
• Cosmetic products, especially those that are occlusive
• Sunscreens (particularly chemical sunscreens)
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Stress and lifestyle factors
• Microbial imbalance on the skin
• Environmental triggers (heat, humidity, wind)

Symptoms of Perioral Dermatitis

• Redness and small bumps or papules around the mouth, nose, or eyes
• A burning or tight sensation in the affected area
• Itchiness (less common than burning or stinging)
• Skin that looks scaly or flaky around the irritated patches

Treatments for Perioral Dermatitis

A customized treatment plan from a dermatologist in NYC can help clear perioral dermatitis and reduce recurrences. Treatment options may include:

• Stopping topical steroids: Discontinuing steroid creams that may have triggered the condition
• Topical medications: Such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, or calcineurin inhibitors
• Oral antibiotics: Short courses of doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline can calm inflammation
• Skin care adjustments: Using gentle cleansers, fragrance-free moisturizers, and avoiding irritating products
• Lifestyle recommendations: Identifying and reducing personal triggers such as stress or certain cosmetics

FAQ About Perioral Dermatitis

Q: What exactly is perioral dermatitis? A: Perioral dermatitis is a facial rash that typically appears as redness and small, red bumps (papules) around the mouth. It can also spread to the nose and eyes, in which case it is referred to as periorificial dermatitis. While it can look very similar to acne or rosacea, it is a distinct condition that requires a different treatment approach.

Q: Why does my rash burn instead of itch? A: This is a classic sign of perioral dermatitis. unlike eczema which is intensely itchy, or acne which can be painful, patients with perioral dermatitis often describe a burning, stinging, or “tight” sensation in the affected area. The skin may also appear dry, scaly, or flaky.

Q: Is perioral dermatitis contagious? A: No. You cannot catch it from someone else, and you cannot give it to others. It is an inflammatory skin condition, not an infection.

Q: Can I treat this at home with over-the-counter creams? A: We strongly advise against self-treating, especially with “anti-itch” creams found at the drugstore. Many of these contain corticosteroids, which may temporarily calm the redness but will ultimately cause the rash to flare up more aggressively (a “rebound effect”) when you stop using them. Effective treatment usually requires prescription medication and professional guidance to break this cycle.

Q: How does Dr. Strachan treat perioral dermatitis? A: At Aglow Dermatology, Dr. Strachan creates a customized plan based on the severity of your condition. Treatment usually involves a “less is more” skincare routine combined with:

• Zero-Therapy: Guidance on which products to immediately stop using (such as steroids or heavy creams).

• Topical Medications: Prescriptions like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or calcineurin inhibitors.

• Oral Antibiotics: In more persistent cases, a course of anti-inflammatory oral antibiotics (like doxycycline or minocycline) may be prescribed to clear the rash.

Q: How long will it take for my skin to clear up? A: Patience is key. Unlike some rashes that vanish in days, perioral dermatitis can be stubborn. With the correct treatment plan, most patients see significant improvement within a few weeks, but complete clearance can take 1 to 3 months. Dr. Strachan will monitor your progress to ensure the rash does not recur.

Q: Can I still wear makeup while being treated? A: We generally recommend taking a break from heavy makeup, foundations, and concealers to let your skin breathe and heal. If you must wear makeup, Dr. Strachan can recommend non-comedogenic, mineral-based options that are less likely to aggravate the condition.

Q: Why should I choose Aglow Dermatology for my treatment? A: Diagnosis is the most critical step. Because perioral dermatitis looks so much like acne and rosacea, it is frequently misdiagnosed. Dr. Dina Strachan is a board-certified dermatologist and an expert in complex facial conditions. With education from Harvard and Yale and years of practice in New York City, she provides the precise diagnosis and expert management needed to resolve this frustrating condition for good.

How a Dermatologist in Manhattan Can Help

At Aglow Dermatology in New York City, Dr. Dina Strachan—a Harvard and Yale-educated, board-certified dermatologist—specializes in diagnosing and treating complex facial skin conditions like perioral dermatitis. We provide:

• Expert evaluation to confirm whether your rash is perioral dermatitis, rosacea, acne, or another skin condition
• A treatment plan tailored to your skin type and lifestyle
• Ongoing guidance to prevent flare-ups and manage long-term skin health

Get Help for Perioral Dermatitis in NYC

If you are struggling with perioral dermatitis in Manhattan or anywhere in New York City, our dermatology team is here to help. Effective, personalized care can get your skin back on track.

Contact Aglow Dermatology today to schedule an appointment with a board-certified dermatologist for perioral dermatitis in NYC.