What Causes a Small White Pimple-Looking Rash Around the Mouth & on the Lips?

What Causes a Small White Pimple-Looking Rash Around the Mouth & on the Lips?
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Several different types of facial rashes exists of which some can cause a pimple-looking rash around your mouth and lips. These conditions are caused by different factors, which may even vary among individuals. Proper skin care techniques and, in some cases, prescription medications can help treat these conditions and prevent future outbreaks.

Rosacea

Rosacea, also referred to as adult acne, is a skin condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the skin in your face. The condition can cause acne-like, pus-filled sores, accompanied by facial flushing or redness. You may also experience dry, itchy or burning sensation on your skin. The cause for rosacea is unknown but it is more common in women and in people between the age of 30 to 50. There is no cure for the condition and the treatment includes avoiding factors that can trigger the condition, including sunlight, spicy foods, hot beverages, exercise in hot weather, emotional stress, hot tubs, saunas, skin products, wind and certain medications. Your doctor may also prescribe antibiotics to control skin eruptions.

Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is an acne-like condition and may be caused by topical corticosteroid creams, cosmetic products, fluoride and oral contraceptives. It is characterized by small red bumps or tiny pus-filled lesions around the mouth, nose and eyes, according to the SkinSight.com. If you suspect you have the condition, stop using all face creams, cosmetics and dental products with fluoride. Wash your face with warm water until you see an improvement on the rash. If you do not see improvement in four to six weeks, consult your doctor who may prescribe antibiotics to help treat the condition.

Seborrheic Dermatitis

Seborrheic dermatitis is a skin condition that can cause persistent redness and irritation around the mouth and face. It is noncontagious condition and affects around 3 to 5 percent of the population, according to the SkinSight.com. Normal skin yeast, called Pityrosporum ovale, plays a role in the condition. The condition may worsen with stress, winter weather and infrequent bathing or shampooing. While there is no known cure, medicated shampoos and topical steroid creams may help to control symptoms. Additionally, shampoo the scalp, bathe the skin regularly and avoid excessive sun exposure.

Acne

Acne vulgaris is more common in adolescents, but can also occur during adulthood. It is characterized by multiple pus-filled bumps or lesions located on the face and other parts of the body. It can be caused by multiple factors, including oily skin, hormonal changes, insufficient shedding of dead cells and plugged hair follicles. The condition may vary from mild to severe and no cure exists. Some treatment options are available to help control the symptoms of acne as well as prevent future breakouts. Cleanse your face daily with soap or cleansers, but avoid products that contain irritants, such as alcohol or abrasive scrubs. Should your condition persist or worsen, despite attempted self-care treatment, consult your doctor for more treatment options.

References

Article reviewed by Jessica Lyons Last updated on: Sep 14, 2011

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