Perioral dermatitis (mouth disease, stewardess disease) is a chronic, non-contagious skin disease that occurs in the form of pus-filled pustules in the mouth and nose. The disease is often caused by skin care products, which are used more often by younger women. A consistent omission of skin-irritating substances (cosmetics, make-up, creams) leads to a rapid healing of the symptoms.

Symptoms of perioral dermatitis

  • Rash appearing in the area around the mouth and nose, sparing a small band just around the lips.
  • Scaling and small pustules, some of which are filled with pus.
  • Burning and tightness in the area of ​​the rash.

Causes of perioral dermatitis

Possible causes of perioral dermatitis are the subject of current discussions. People with neurodermatitis, hay fever or asthma are more prone to mouth rhinitis than others. Excessive use of skin care products and cosmetics, especially creams and sunscreens containing cortisone, leads to disruption of the skin barrier and facilitates the development of skin lesions.

Diagnosis of perioral dermatitis

The typical inflammatory nodules (sometimes filled with pus) with an asymptomatic recess around the lips are diagnostic. Itching in the area of ​​the skin changes usually does not occur. In rare cases, however, it can exist and then exacerbate the symptoms. Mouth rose is a visual diagnosis that can be diagnosed by a doctor based on typical features of the skin changes.

Duration of symptoms in perioral dermatitis

In the case of perioral dermatitis, the skin changes usually resolve on their own. In individual cases, the symptoms can last for several months or years. However, timely treatment can shorten the duration of the disease.

When to seek help for perioral dermatitis

If you notice skin changes (redness, blisters, scaling) on ​​your face, but especially in the area around the mouth and nose, you should consult a doctor.

You can do this yourself for perioral dermatitis

One therapy option that has often proven to be successful is the so-called zero therapy. Those affected have to do without all cosmetics, ointments, make-up and greasy skin care products.

Black tea compresses can also relieve the symptoms. To do this, dip a clean cotton or linen towel in a cool, freshly prepared cup of tea (let 2-3 black tea bags steep for about 15 minutes) and place the towel on the affected area of ​​skin for about 10-15 minutes. This process can be repeated several times a day.

Treatment options for perioral dermatitis

In addition to zero therapy, anti-inflammatory solutions can also be applied to the affected areas of the skin. The doctor treating you will tell you which solution is most suitable.

Here’s how Med-Healths can help with perioral dermatitis

Does rosy mouth come with complications? Can other diseases cause symptoms similar to mouth rose? Which treatment options are suitable for you? What factors can promote the disease? You can clarify these and other questions with a doctor via our video consultation. It is also possible to upload photos of the skin changes via the Med-Healths app.

Darrick Robles

I was born with the vocation of being a doctor. I have worked in public health centers in California and Washington, ​​in social projects in low-income countries, and in pioneering private centers in integrative medicine. Currently, I am the founder and medical director of the social enterprise Med-Healths, in which I combine my medical care work with giving conferences on health and well-being in business and social environments.