Consult an online dermatologist for perioral dermatitis

Responsive time: 24 – 48 hours

Service available nationwide

*Average online dermatologist response time from July-September 2026: 18.6 hours

Board-certified dermatologists
No medication subscriptions
Choice of generic or customized formulas

Medications often prescribed by dermatologists for perioral dermatitis.

Woman with perioral dermatitis rash around the mouth and chin

Last updated, October 2026

Medically reviewed by:
Dr. Blake Galler
Dermatologist

How can I consult a dermatologist online for perioral dermatitis?

Miiskin gives you online access to a board-certified dermatologist for perioral dermatitis, with consultations costing $59– $79. Submit your photos and information for review, and your dermatologist will recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Submit your skin concern

Describe your concern, answer a brief medical questionnaire, and upload your photos.

Dermatologist review

A board-certified dermatologist licensed in your state reviews your information and photos.

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Receive your treatment plan. Choose delivery or pickup at your preferred pharmacy.

Woman with perioral dermatitis symptoms around the mouth and lower face

What is perioral dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis, also known as periorificial dermatitis, is a common inflammatory skin condition that affects the skin around facial openings, most commonly the mouth. It can affect both adults and children, although it is more common in women between the ages of 20 and 45. It is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

Perioral dermatitis can sometimes be confused with acne, rosacea, eczema, or contact dermatitis because they have a similar appearance; however, it requires a different treatment approach.

Without adequate treatment, it can persist for weeks or months and may go through periods when it improves and then flares again. A dermatologist can help distinguish it from other facial rashes and recommend treatment based on its severity and possible triggers.¹

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Signs and symptoms of perioral dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis typically develops around the mouth, but it can also affect the skin around the nose, eyes, and eyelids. The rash often appears as clusters of small bumps and may be accompanied by dry, irritated, or sensitive skin.

1. Small bumps (papules)

Clusters of tiny raised bumps that may look red, skin-colored, brown, or purple depending on skin tone.

2. Pustules

Small pus-filled bumps may develop, making the rash resemble acne, without blackheads or whiteheads.

3. Dry and flaky skin

Affected skin may become noticeably dry, rough, scaly, or flaky, sometimes with mild peeling.

4. Burning or stinging

The rash may cause burning, stinging, tightness, or mild itching around the affected areas.²

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boy with perioral dermatitis bumps around the mouth and chin

What causes perioral dermatitis?

The exact cause of perioral (or periorificial) dermatitis is not fully understood, but several factors can trigger the rash or make it worse. It often develops when the skin barrier becomes irritated or disrupted by certain medications, skincare products, or environmental factors.

Topical corticosteroid creams
Nasal or inhaled corticosteroids
Certain cosmetics and makeup
Fluorinated toothpaste
Harsh cleansers or exfoliants
Sun exposure, heat, and wind
Heavy creams and moisturizers

Demodex mites (which also cause rosacea)
Bacteria
Dysfunction of the epidermal barrier
Hormonal changes
Immune system issues³ ⁴

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Topical or oral medications?

Through Miiskin, your dermatologist can prescribe a topical or an oral medication for perioral dermatitis, depending on your symptoms and preferences.

Topical treatments for perioral dermatitis

Standard topical medications to treat perioral dermatitis. Your prescription can be sent to any local or online pharmacy you choose.

Metronidazole (Generic MetroGel®)
Pimecrolimus (Generic Elidel®)
Azelaic acid (Generic Finacea®)
Erythromycin (Generic Erygel®)
Clindamycin (Generic Cleocin T®)
Tacrolimus (Generic Protopic®)

Prescribed only if medically appropriate. Your dermatologist decides which medication fits your case.

Oral medications for perioral dermatitis

Standard oral medications to treat perioral dermatitis. Your prescription can be sent to any local or online pharmacy you choose.

Tetracycline
Doxycycline
Erythromycin
Minocycline

Prescribed only if medically appropriate. Your dermatologist decides which medication fits your case.

How does Miiskin compare to other telehealth services for perioral dermatitis treatment?

Perioral dermatitis is a common skin condition, yet many of the best-known online skincare services don’t treat it. Most focus on acne, anti-aging or hair loss, and some offer advice without prescribing. Because perioral dermatitis usually needs prescription treatment, it’s worth checking who you’ll see and what they can prescribe before you start a consultation.

Swipe to compare →

Feature	Miiskin	First Derm	SkyMD	Curology
Provider type	Board-certified dermatologist	Board-certified dermatologist	Board-certified dermatologist	Physician, NP or PA
Prescribes perioral dermatitis treatment	Yes	No	Yes	Yes*
Choose your dermatologist	Yes	No	No	No
Brand-name or generic medications	Yes	Advice only	Yes	Yes
Customized formulas	Yes	No	No	Yes
Choice of pharmacy	Yes	No	Yes	No
Subscription required	No	No	No	Yes

* Focuses on acne, rosacea and anti-aging, but offers medications used for perioral dermatitis.

Meet the board-certified dermatologists

Miiskin partners exclusively with board-certified dermatologists who have helped more than 200,000 people through telehealth.

Get a clear overview of our dermatologists, including where they’re licensed to practice, their experience, specialties, typical response time, and number of telehealth consultations completed.

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miiskin's dermatologists talk to each other

treatment plan for perioral dermatitis from a dermatologist

Can you get a perioral dermatitis consultation online?

Yes. Through Miiskin you can consult a board-certified dermatologist for perioral dermatitis treatment.

Can users under 18 have a consultation?

Yes. It is possible to do a consultation for people under 18 through Miiskin.

Can I get perioral dermatitis medication online?

Dermatologists can send prescriptions to any pharmacy. Customized compounded formulas are available through Foothills Pharmacy.

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FAQ about perioral dermatitis and its treatment

Dr. Blake Galler, board-certified dermatologist, answers common questions about consulting an online dermatologist for perioral dermatitis.

Where can I find a dermatologist who specializes in perioral dermatitis?

Through Miiskin, you can choose from independent board-certified dermatologists experienced in diagnosing and treating perioral dermatitis and other skin conditions. Consultations take place online, so you can access dermatology care without an in-person appointment or the need of a referral.

Can perioral dermatitis be diagnosed online?

Yes. Your dermatologist can assess your skin condition online by reviewing clear photos of the affected skin along with your symptoms, medical history, and current skincare products and medications. If your symptoms require an in-person examination or testing, the dermatologist may recommend in-person care.

Are perioral dermatitis and periorificial dermatitis the same?

Yes. Perioral dermatitis is commonly used when the rash primarily affects the area around the mouth. Periorificial dermatitis is a broader term because the condition can also develop around other facial openings, including the nose and eyes.

Can perioral dermatitis be cured?

Perioral dermatitis is treatable and often clears completely with appropriate care, although it can take several weeks or months. Treatment may involve stopping products that trigger the condition and using topical or oral prescription medications when necessary.

Is perioral dermatitis contagious?

No. Perioral dermatitis is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from or spread it to another person through touching, kissing, sharing towels, or other forms of close contact.

What can be mistaken for perioral dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis can look similar to acne, rosacea, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and other facial rashes. A dermatologist can evaluate the appearance and distribution of the rash to determine the likely diagnosis.

Can perioral dermatitis turn into rosacea?

No. Perioral dermatitis does not turn into rosacea, although the two inflammatory skin conditions can have similar symptoms and may sometimes occur in the same person. A dermatologist can help distinguish between them.

Are there foods that worsen perioral dermatitis?

There is no specific diet proven to cause or cure perioral dermatitis. Some people may notice that certain foods seem to aggravate their symptoms, but triggers vary from person to person and dietary changes are not generally considered a primary treatment.

What should I avoid when I have perioral dermatitis?

Avoid using topical corticosteroids on the rash unless specifically instructed by a dermatologist, as they can worsen perioral dermatitis. It may also help to simplify your skincare routine and avoid heavy creams, irritating cosmetics, harsh cleansers, scrubs, and other products that aggravate your skin.

What makes perioral dermatitis worse?

Topical corticosteroids are a well-known trigger and can make perioral dermatitis worse, particularly after they are stopped. Heavy skincare products, cosmetics, harsh or irritating ingredients, heat, sunlight, and other individual triggers may also contribute to flare-ups.

Can doxycycline be used for perioral dermatitis?

Yes. Dermatologists sometimes prescribe oral doxycycline for moderate or persistent perioral dermatitis, particularly when topical treatment is not enough. The dose and length of treatment depend on the individual and should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Can perioral dermatitis go away on its own?

Sometimes, particularly when a triggering product is identified and stopped. However, perioral dermatitis can persist for weeks or months without treatment, so it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist if the rash does not improve or continues to spread.

Can perioral dermatitis get worse?

Yes. Perioral dermatitis can become more widespread or persistent, particularly if triggering products such as topical corticosteroids continue to be used. The rash may also temporarily flare after corticosteroids are discontinued before it begins to improve.

Is perioral dermatitis a fungal infection?

No. Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition, not a fungal infection. Microorganisms may potentially play a role in some cases, but perioral dermatitis is not generally treated as a typical fungal skin infection.

Can perioral dermatitis be caused by stress?

Stress is not considered a direct cause of perioral dermatitis, but some people report that their skin symptoms worsen during periods of stress. The condition is usually associated with a combination of potential triggers rather than one single cause.

How soon after treatment will perioral dermatitis improve?

Improvement is usually gradual rather than immediate. Some people begin noticing improvement within a few weeks, but complete clearing may take several weeks to a few months depending on the severity of the rash and the treatment used.

What can I expect after being diagnosed with perioral dermatitis?

Your dermatologist may recommend stopping suspected triggers and simplifying your skincare routine. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, they may also prescribe a topical or oral medication. The rash can temporarily worsen before improving, particularly after stopping topical corticosteroids.

How long does perioral dermatitis last?

Without treatment, perioral dermatitis may persist for months and sometimes longer. With appropriate treatment and avoidance of known triggers, it often gradually improves over several weeks to a few months, although recurrence is possible.

What over-the-counter products should I stop using if I have perioral dermatitis?

Consider stopping irritating or unnecessary products such as facial scrubs, exfoliating acids, retinoids, fragranced products, and heavy or occlusive creams while the skin is irritated. If you use an over-the-counter corticosteroid such as hydrocortisone on your face, talk to a dermatologist before continuing or stopping it, particularly if you have used it regularly.

References:
¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21458-perioral-dermatitis
²https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21458-perioral-dermatitis
³https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/perioral-dermatitis-symptoms-treatment-and-prevention
⁴https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21458-perioral-dermatitis