Aetiology

Exact cause of perioral dermatitis is unknown (1). Some factors implicated in its pathogenesis include:

• topical corticosteroids - directly or indirectly (eg the area has been touched by fingers that are treating another part of the body with steroid creams)
• inhaled steroids in asthmatic children,
• tartar control toothpastes
• microbiologic factors (eg, Candida, Demodex, or fusiform bacteria)
• topical cosmetics, moisturizing creams and their occlusive effects which cause the proliferation of skin flora
• some have noted flare ups during premenstrual period, pregnancy and when they are taking oral contraceptives (1,2)

Reference:

• (1) Hafeez ZH.Perioral dermatitis: an update. Int J Dermatol. 2003;42(7):514-7.
• (2) Primary Care Dermatology Society (PCDS) 2013. Perioral dermatitis