Perioral Dermatitis vs Eczema

How to tell the difference — key features compared side by side.

Feature
Perioral Dermatitis
Eczema
Category
Common
Common
Key feature
Red, bumpy rash around the mouth and nose - often triggered by topical steroids. Common in women aged 20-45.
Red, itchy, inflamed skin - the most common chronic skin condition in children. Part of the atopic triad with asthma and hay fever.
Risk factors
Women aged 20-45; Use of topical corticosteroids on the face (most common trigger); Heavy or occlusive facial moisturizers
Family history of eczema, asthma, or hay fever; Filaggrin gene mutations (skin barrier dysfunction); Living in dry or cold climates
Action needed
Persistent bumpy rash around the mouth that does not resolve with simple skincare changes
Eczema not controlled with regular moisturizing and over-the-counter hydrocortisone

Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is a facial rash characterized by small red papules, pustules, and mild scaling distributed around the mouth, nose, and sometimes the eyes. It predominantly affects women aged 20-45, though it can occur in men and children.

Read full guide →

Eczema

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition causing red, itchy, dry, and sometimes weeping or crusting patches. It is the most common chronic skin disease in children, affecting up to 20% of children and 3% of adults worldwide.

Read full guide →

Does yours look more like perioral dermatitis?

Quick self-check

Does this look like perioral dermatitis? Answer 2 questions.

Is there a bumpy rash around the mouth with a clear strip right at the lip edge?

Have you used steroid cream on your face or changed facial products recently?

Still not sure?

Our full ABCDE checker evaluates 5 clinical criteria dermatologists use.

Full ABCDE check →