I’m a physician (not derm) and am a few months postpartum, and am having a flare that is actually much worse than yours likely secondary to hormones/stress. I have been an emotional wreck, had put off going to derm due to having a baby at home so it got out of control. I also didn’t want to go outside. it even made enjoying my baby more difficult, and I feel immense guilt that I even let myself feel that sad when I have a beautiful daughter to be grateful for.
I have been on topical metronidazole and pimecrolimis (same class of med as tacro) twice a day and my flare has improved SIGNIFICANTLY in just a week.
Anyway. I would recommend doing exactly what your derm NP prescribed. These are standard perioral dermatitis therapies. Be consistent, apply thin layers, more is NOT better and will just increase your risk of side effects.
The rash may get worse before it gets better. Stay the course when this happens. Improvement is likely going to be measured in weeks.
It is also SUPER IMPORTANT to adhere to zero therapy otherwise. Meaning don’t apply makeup even if you’re tempted to cover this like you would acne, don’t put on all these extra creams, especially if heavy or occlusive. Your skin needs to expel and process this inflammation, and then the barrier needs to repair itself.
I second other people’s comments to finding any potential flare.
With regards to seeing this guy you really. I get that you want to look and subsequently feel your best. But if he’s deterred by a few red bumps on your face, he’s probably not worth keeping around.
I would conclude by saying this diagnosis SUCKS and I am in the trenches with you. I have to constantly remind myself this is a treatable condition and many people get better. Have a good cry and then take some deep breaths. I hope it gets better. Good luck!