During the training camp in Lanzarote, every time I applied sun cream to my face, I developed small pustules around my mouth and the whole area swelled up. The upper part of my face, on the other hand, did not react to the cream at all. Although the rash cleared up about two hours after showering, I would still like to know where this reaction could have come from and whether there is anything I can do to avoid it in future? I've never had any problems with creams or other cosmetics before and I don't suffer from allergies, hay fever or anything similar. M. Stadler, Munich
Dr Manstein: According to your description, three conditions are most likely to cause the rash - although all three are not allergic reactions. You are either suffering from perioral dermatitis - an inflammation of the skin around the mouth -, so-called "Mallorca acne" or irritant dermatitis - an intolerance to this sun cream. The first two could be related to your sun cream being too greasy. This can lead to nodules and redness in the areas of the face that are rich in sebaceous glands. On hot days, you should use more watery products such as gels or fluids. Please do not use any ointment containing cortisone as an acute remedy, and use very little - preferably no - cosmetics! Poultices with cold black tea decoction (apply for about 30 minutes) have a calming effect. Apply a moisturising cream underneath to prevent the skin from drying out. Irritant dermatitis is indicated by the rapid onset and rapid disappearance of symptoms after removing the cream. The area around the mouth is very sensitive. Intolerance to certain ingredients in the sun cream can show up more quickly here than on the rest of the body. My advice: Change the product. Test new products in the crook of your elbow several times a day for three days. If there is no irritation, you will most likely tolerate the product.
Photos: Kraus, private
