Is It Just Dry Skin… or Perioral Dermatitis?

If you’ve noticed little red lumps or flaky, irritated patches around your nose, mouth, or chin lately, you’re not alone. In fact, this winter has brought more cases of perioral dermatitis through The Skin Fixer than ever before.

If that’s what’s showing up on your face, let me say this loud and clear:

It’s not your fault. You didn’t mess up your skincare, and no, picking at it won’t make it go away.

So… what is Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition that often looks like:

• Small red bumps around the mouth, nose, or chin

• Dry, flaky skin that feels irritated or tight

• Sensitivity to products you usually tolerate

It’s often mistaken for acne, rosacea, or just “dry patches”, but it’s different, and it needs a different kind of care.

What Causes It?

Here’s the honest truth: this condition isn’t just skin deep. It can be triggered or worsened by:

• Stress and cortisol spikes (hello, modern life)

• Gut imbalances or inflammation

• Harsh winter heaters or weather changes

• Overuse of active ingredients (even the ones that usually work for you)

• Barrier damage from over-cleansing or aggressive treatments

Sometimes, it appears even when you're “doing everything right.” That’s because your skin reflects what’s happening internally, physically and emotionally.

What Not to Do

I know it’s tempting. You see flaking or bumps and want to scrub, squeeze, or cover it up, but please... don’t.

❌ Don’t pick or peel the flaking skin

❌ Don’t overload it with heavy creams or random new products

❌ Don’t panic or blame yourself

This is your skin asking for calm, not punishment.

What can you do to help with perioral dermatitis?

Foremost, book a personalised consultation with The Skin Fixer in Diamond Creek. I’ll assess your skin and guide you through a plan that soothes, heals, and supports, not just suppresses.

If needed, we’ll bring in additional support from Chinese Medicine or a naturopath. I have trusted practitioners who can help us work with your gut, hormones, and nervous system.

Most importantly? You’ll be treated with respect, empathy, and zero judgment.

You’re not broken. You don’t need to start over. You need the right plan and someone who sees the full picture.

Your skin is talking. Let’s help it feel safe again.

Book your consultation with The Skin Fixer here.