Dermatitis around the mouth (perioral) is most common in young to middle age women. Frequently, no specific cause is found. However, there appears to be an association with fluorinated steroids. In children, dermatitis around the mouth may be associated with irritation from specific foods or other materials carried to the face on the hands.
Review Date: 2/5/2008
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.