but there are several factors that may play a role.
Perioral dermatitis usually comes after use of topical steroids, and use of topical steroids for a long time would increase the severity.
“Using steroids around the mouth — including inhaled steroids for asthma — is a common trigger in children,” Dr. Lio says.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, dermatologists saw a rise in perioral dermatitis as a result of face masks. Anna Lien-Lun Chien, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, said her practice noted an increase in cases during the pandemic.
“Unfortunately with the mask in place, it creates a different environment,” she says. “It changes the barrier of the skin in that area. Especially for an individual who’s more sensitive or prone to this inflammation, they can start developing those breakouts.”
In some cases of perioral dermatitis, a skin-care product or even a particular toothpaste may be the culprit, Lio says.
The skin condition can affect anyone at any age, but children and women are most affected, Lio says.