Healing of recalcitrant facial dermatitis by resting the skin

In order to improve her complexion, a 62-year-old women began using a cleansing antiseptic lotion. Soon the skin over the glabella became irritated. Continued self-treatment resulted in the spread of the dermatitis to the cheeks. Physicians were consulted, and intensive oral and parenteral treatment was prescribed. Treatment continued for five years and resulted in a worsening of the erythema and the continued development of pustules, cysts, and keratotic plugs. Stopping all cleansing procedures and discontinuing all medications relieved the itching and burning in three weeks and fostered healing in four months.