10 ways to soothe redness around the mouth

• No risk of contagion

Perioral dermatitis is not contagious. You therefore do not need to worry that touching or shared skin contact will transmit the condition to others.

• Be patient during healing

The duration of the condition varies depending on severity and treatment method. With targeted therapy the skin can heal within a few weeks; otherwise it may take several months.

• Use a minimalist skincare routine

Use only gentle, pH-neutral and fragrance-free products. A light moisturiser without irritating or occlusive ingredients supports the skin barrier best.

• Apply cooling treatments

Soothe acute redness with cold masks or aloe vera gel. Test products cautiously at first, as natural ingredients can also cause irritation on sensitive skin.

• Consider LED light therapy

Red LED light can have anti-inflammatory effects and support healing. This method is gentle on the skin and is a mild complement to topical care.

• Choose an anti-inflammatory diet

Focus on omega-3 fatty acids from salmon, mackerel, walnuts or flaxseed oil. Reduce sugar, highly processed foods and alcohol to avoid worsening inflammation.

• Monitor individual triggers

Watch for foods that might worsen your symptoms, such as eggs, dairy products, pork or fast food. Adjust your diet accordingly.

• Black tea compresses for relief

A cooled compress of organic black tea for 10–15 minutes can help calm redness. Do this one to three times daily if your skin responds well.

• Consider the indoor climate

Dry air from heating or air conditioning can dry out the skin. Use humidifiers or protect the skin with a scarf in cold weather.

• Actively implement stress reduction

Relaxation exercises such as yoga, meditation or breathing techniques can have a positive effect on the skin. Incorporate short breaks into your daily routine to reduce stress.