Recently, celebrities Joey King and Hailey Bieber have used their platforms to shed light on a lesser-known skin condition called perioral dermatitis (POD). Their openness about their struggles has sparked a broader conversation about this condition and the importance of skin health.
Actor Joey King, known for her roles in “The Kissing Booth” and “The Act,” took to TikTok to share her skincare journey, revealing that she has been battling perioral dermatitis for the past seven months. According to the National Library of Medicine, perioral dermatitis is commonly seen among young female adults and manifests as small inflammatory bumps or pink, scaly patches around the mouth. Joey’s candid revelation highlights the challenges of managing this condition and its impact on one’s confidence and daily life.
Model Hailey Rhode Baldwin Bieber also opened up about her struggle with perioral dermatitis in a TikTok video earlier this year. She described POD as a disorder resembling acne or rosacea and shared her experiences dealing with flare-ups since she was 19 or 20. Hailey’s transparency about her makeup-free skin during a bad flare-up has resonated with many who face similar issues, emphasizing the importance of understanding and managing this skin condition.
The dermatologist explains that perioral dermatitis is a facial rash around the lower lip area. POD manifests as red, bumpy patches or pimples that resemble acne but affect different face areas. These clusters can cause discomfort or a burning sensation and may become more pronounced if left untreated.
Various factors, including topical steroid use, spicy foods, hot beverages, allergies, and hormonal changes, can trigger perioral dermatitis (POD). Dermatologists typically diagnose POD by examining the patient’s history and the appearance and distribution of the rash.
There is no definitive cure for perioral dermatitis, but it can be managed effectively with appropriate treatment. Doctors advise avoiding topical steroids, alcohol-based skincare products, and harsh ingredients that can irritate the skin. They also recommend steering clear of spicy foods, heavy or oily skin care products, alcohol, caffeine, and stress. During flare-ups, it’s best to avoid makeup and products with fragrance and keep the skin hydrated with regular use of moisturizers.
A dermatologist may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics for managing POD. Maintaining a gentle skincare routine and avoiding irritants for home remedies can help alleviate symptoms. Identifying and avoiding triggers is crucial if the condition is due to allergies or hormonal changes.
Joey King and Hailey Bieber’s openness about their struggles with perioral dermatitis has brought much-needed attention to this skin condition. Their stories underscore the importance of understanding, managing, and talking about skin health issues. With the right approach and treatment, those affected by perioral dermatitis can find relief and maintain healthy, confident skin.
