Clear Skin Solutions? 5 Tips for Working Women to Manage Perioral Dermatitis

I woke up one day and as always, went to skip and have a bath. But for some reason, my face stung a bit when washing it with the CosRx Salicylic Acid face wash I always use. Standing in front of the mirror right after the shower, I noticed there were tiny rashes around my lips. Not only were they unsightly, they were also a bit itchy. Imagine how I felt after all the work put into skincare to ensure it was smooth and clear. That was sometime in 2023, when The Ordinary Glycolic Acid was new in my skincare routine and irritated my face. 

This is 2024, and while my facial skin has adjusted to all the actives I routinely use, taking off my makeup after work one evening, I noticed the same kind of rashes again. Only this time, not itchy but they stung. 

First reaction? Do the exact same thing I did in 2023 when I first experienced this. I knew what caused it then, but this time around, I have no idea. 

Anyway, the rashes are referred to as Perioral Dermatitis. By definition, it is a benign eruption that occurs most commonly in young, female adults, consisting of small inflammatory papules and pustules or pink, scaly patches around the mouth. It can appear around the nose, cheeks and eyes. The exact cause is generally unknown. 

In this case, I believe an expired sunscreen is to blame 😒

While it is going to be a makeup and actives free week, it is an issue that women generally face especially where numerouse skincare products are being applied at the same time and the skin needs to adjust. For working women especially, it is a challenge as appearance is really important to us. 

In this case, below are 5 tips to manage Perioral Dermatitis (one I found out via reasearch and most, from experience):

1. Stop everything & simplify your skincare routine: instinct directed me to drop every single skincare product, evaluate what was the new-comer in my routine and then go back to the basics i.e. cleanse, tone, moisturise and protect. Remember to use mild products for this phase, preferably fragrance free and suitable for sensitive skin. Also, be gentle on your skin as well. 
2. No makeup: the idea is to not aggravate your skin in anyway so it is advisable to go without makeup for the treatment period of the dermatitis. Yes, it will be difficult but if you absolutely have to wear makeup, it should be a very, very light layer. Preferably mineral makeup (if you find one that suits your skin), as it won't clog your pores and has ingredients suitable for sensitive skin.
3. Lay-off the steroids: yes, I know, the eczema is inflammed and the rosacea might look like it has spread more but, please reduce your usage of the steroid topical creams and preferably, stop entirely. This is because they can actually worsen the perioral dermatitis. Of course, let your Doctor know or consult with one if possible.
4. Lay on the moisture: the worst thing that can happen to your face when you have perioral dermatitis is dryness. You can't afford to leave your skin dry so switch to a lightweight but non-comedogenic moisturiser that'll help maintain your skin barrier throughout the period. Drink plenty of water too.
5. Be Patient: I think this is the most important tip of all of them. Some times, it can take a couple of days for the perioral dermatitis to clear off and sometimes it can take weeks. The first time I had it, it was gone in days, but the second time, I was in for the long haul and there was no rushing the process.

Cheers!