Best Products for Perioral Dermatitis (Cleanser, Creams & Cosmetics)
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I dealt with perioral dermatitis around my nose, mouth, and lips for years before finding relief. The red itchy bumps and burning sensation from the rash could keep me up at night. Luckily, I found some of the best products for perioral dermatitis during my stint with it before finding an effective treatment option that got rid of it all together (more on that below!).
My perioral dermatitis started when I was 21. I was a senior year in college and was feeling really stressed out. That was about 8 years ago. Since then, I’ve found my favorite perioral dermatitis products that seem to help clear it up.
I also found a dermatologist that worked with me through topical creams, antibiotics, and then finally a combination of oral contraceptives and Spironolactone. You can read more about my perioral dermatitis treatment here.
You can check out the full story of my perioral dermatitis here.
First Off – What Can Cause Perioral Dermatitis?
Every doctor I’ve talked to and article I’ve read has said it can be hard to completely pinpoint it on something.
With that said, there are a few common things that can cause it.
- Stress
- Steroid Creams
- Facial Products (including makeup)
- Hormones (mostly in women)
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Fluoride in Toothpaste
- Exposure to Harsh Temps
- Birth Control Pills
Not every trigger will be a trigger for everyone, but the five ingredients below are common triggers for people.
I now avoid products with:
1. Steroids
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)- This chemical is heavily restricted in Canada and Europe; however, it is even on baby products in the U.S.
3. Makeup with Parabens – Parabens are known to disrupt the body’s hormones and endocrine system. They are also very harsh irritants when applied to the skin. These chemicals are found in most cosmetics and cleansers.
View my list of sulfate-free and paraben-free products
4. Whiteners and Bleaches – Skip these all together! If it bleaches, it has to be harsh.
5. Flouride Toothpaste – Jason’s toothpaste is a great alternative.
Best Products for My Perioral Dermatitis
Some of these items are as low as $3, but some are also pricey. I literally just picked out what I knew what worked for me or what dozens of others have sworn by to help. I hope it helps you find your own favorite products of perioral dermatitis.
Best Face washes for Perioral Dermatitis: CETAPHIL
Cetaphil is a great cleanser because it’s gentle even on sensitive skin. If you’re looking for something with additional benefits, you may also like the black clay bar soap shown below.
Runner Up: A Gentle Soap like: Osmia Organics Black Clay Facial Soap
The black Australian clay and dead sea mud helps balance and tone the skin. It also has several ingredients to help nourish the skin which can help with the dryness and flaking you may have.
Best Perioral Dermatitis Moisturizer: Cetaphil Face Moisturizer
I love this gentle moisturizer because it’s oil-free and the hyaluronic acid can help if you have any cystic acne. Whether or not you choose this specific line or not, you want to choose lighter face creams over a night cream because the heavier creams can make it worse.
Runner up Day-Time Moisturizer: Yes to Intense Hydration
If you are looking for something with a little bit of antioxidants in it, the Yes to line is great! It’s very soft, non-greasy, and helps soothe irritated skin. You can also find Yes to at Target and drugstores typically.
Best Eye Cream: LA ROCHE POSAY
This eye cream is gentle, lightweight, and doesn’t have a smell.
FAVORITE SUNSCREEN: LA ROCHE-POSAY
This is the best sunscreen I’ve found. If I travel, I’ll even squeeze it into a TSA-approved little container!
I get the SPF 15, but they have a lot of options. Perioral Dermatitis is such sensitive skin that it needs a gentle SPF, and it definitely needs that sun protection!
Over the counter zinc
Yeah, I take an over-the-counter Zinc when I have a flare up. The Mayo Clinic says you can take 40-220mg for up to 6 months to treat skin conditions such as Eczema. I try to do it just when I have a flare up though.
Best Toothpaste:Jason’s Spearmint Toothpaste
Finding a toothpaste that met the requirements was so hard. Even Colgate’s Cavity Protection that seems so bare-minimum had Sodium Lauryl Sulfate in it!
“Organic” brands also had whiteners or sodium lauryl sulfate too! Crazy!
Kiss My Face and Jason’s have no additives, fluoride, or whiteners. The Spearmint and cool mint are easier on the skin than peppermint as well.
Serum: B3 Metacell Renewal
This stuff is pricey!! I totally understand if you skip this one. I included it because I really feel like it’s helped not only the bumps caused by dermatitis but also the red skin around it.
My mom’s medical esthetician recommended it to me a couple of years ago now. She recommended it because of the high concentration niacinamide (5%) which can help with bacteria — which dermatitis is linked to.
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It also reduces the appearance of discoloration and the look of redness which was a problem of mine.
I still use it day and night even though my skin has cleared up.
Best Chapstick: ART NATURALS ORGANIC CHAPSTICK
My perioral dermatitis is around my chin and lips when it flares so a safe chapstick is a must.
Kiss My Face’s goes on well, is not too greasy or too hard, and it has sunscreen in it!
Additional Serum That’s Best for Redness: Skinceuticals Phyto
I love Skinceutical’s Phyto. I do my cleanser, then this serum, and then the blueberry moisturizer and eye cream.
My Skin Care Routine
- Wash my face with the soap above
- Apply B3 Metacell Renewal
- 1-2 Drops of Phyto Applied
- Then, I moisturize with the oil at night or lotion in the morning
- Sunscreen in the morning
Note About Rose Water Products
To freshen makeup put distilled water in a spray bottle–resist the urge to try a rose water, but if you do, check the ingredients. So many have parabens and sulfates and are over $30
Other Items for Perioral Dermatitis
Topical Cream For Breakouts: Honest Diaper Rash Cream
This has to be the weirdest perioral dermatitis product at a glance, but it can help the areas that are broken out. The reason it helps is because it has non-nano zinc oxide, and zinc has been shown to help with dermatitis.
Also, I love Apple Cider and Coconut Oil.
This is a mild breakout I had on the left. The Right side is after taking 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother for 2 days and washing my face with coconut oil.
My top two products are unconventional, but if you are to search Perioral Dermatitis you’ll notice several people love them too.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) and Coconut Oil Treatment
You can apply 1 part ACV with 1 part water to the affected area. Wash after 10 minutes.
You can also drink the ACV. I do 2 tablespoons straight and then have a little honey and drink approximately 8 ounces of water to wash it down.
I also will wash my face with Coconut Oil. It will be creamy to start, but if you rub it with your fingers it will turn to liquid. I apply all over and then wash off with a wash washcloth.
Make Up Tips
I wear makeup 3-5 times a week. I haven’t found specific things that work best for all people. I would just recommend choosing the non-SLS and paraben-free products. The only thing I will recommend is a concealer. It’s awesome when you have a breakout.
Best Concealer
I LOVE this stuff. If nothing else, this is a must-have. It builds easily, and it even lasts pretty well on the bridge of my nose which gets very red. I put it on before my foundation on the red spots, let it dry, apply foundation, and pat with powder after the foundation is dry. (If you do it before it is dry, it will look cakey).
5 over the counter options for Perioral Dermatitis
Since publishing my struggle with perioral dermatitis a few years ago, people have written in and shared tips! I’m sharing those below!
1. Take Zinc Daily (Less than a year at a time)
The Mayo Clinic says you can take 40-220mg for up to 6 months to treat skin conditions such as Eczema.
Here is the Zinc I use, but it can be any over-the-counter Zinc.
2. Use pure tea tree oil
This can be diluted with a little water on the bumps when they are at the blister stage. This seems to help dry them out.
3. Apply Manuka honey (12+) on the infected areas
Because of the honey’s anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it seems to be helping soothe and moisturize the inflamed areas.
Vitamin E has also been helpful in the past for the same reasons.
4. Consider a probiotic
This probiotic capsule was recommended to me, but I usually try to get my pre-biotics and probiotics from foods.
5. Always read product labels
I hope these products & tips help!
Remember even the “organic” or “sensitive” products can contain sodium lauryl sulfate or parabens. The price, marketing, and the brand do not matter. Always read the labels especially if you have perioral dermatitis.
I hope this extensive product guide will help anyone with Perioral Dermatitis or even just sensitive skin. These products are the most natural, safe products I have found in the past 3 years.
Oh my goodness. I’m 18 and was diagnosed with Perioral Dermatitis shortly after I entered my freshman year at WashU. When I was diagnosed, I was told NOTHING about what I was supposed to do or avoid. They gave me some topical stuff to put on and that seemed to help for a little bit, but it just gets worse with stress and caffeine. I had no idea what to avoid or even look for when it came to skincare and I didn’t even think my rash was a big deal because it’s pretty mild. But then it started to just become a pain. Nothing covered it, or if it did, the scaly texture of my skin would show through within an hour of putting makeup on. By coincidence, one of my roommates got the St. Ives lotion which I used on my face because EVERYTHING else was irritating, and it was the only thing that made my face not sting or peel. Seriously, I cannot thank you enough for posting this, because a) I know what to avoid, b) I have an arsenal of products that are easy access and c) I know I’m not alone.
Hey Marina,
I’m so glad I could help just a little bit. Mine started in college too–I honestly think we get too stressed! It seems like most of the people I talk to are in college or about to get married. I’m so glad you found the lotion–I think trying to cover the texture is the toughest part. It can get better though especially once you figure out what to use and get a routine down for school :) If you find anything else that works I’d love to know so I can add it for everyone too :)
Good luck and thanks for commenting!! It’s always nice to know someone else is out there dealing with the same thing.
Kalee
Thank you for posting!!! just found out that I have this wicked condition. May I ask what the tinted moisturizer you use? I am unable to read the label and there is no link. By the way I am 52 and just got diagnosed. I am hoping for a recovery the gave me low dose antibiotics for 60 days. I hope it helps.
Thank you,
Ava
Hi Ava,
I’m so sorry you have been diagnosed with Perioral Dermatitis. The good thing is it can go into remission. :) Here is a link to all of the products I use: https://soreyfitness.com/tips/perioral-dermatitis-safe-products/
Hi! Thank you so much for posting this. I just found that I have this and Im only 14! My school doesn’t allow makeup but I have to cover this up because its so ugly. But the makeup becomes really noticeable because of the texture of my skin and then i feel embarrassed and i dont want People to see so i avoid looking at people. I’m going to try some of these products and I really hope it gets better. There have been a lot of nights where I cry myself to sleep because of this.
Carla, I’m 29 years old and I’ve cried a lot about this, too (I’ve always had very nice and soft skin until a few months ago). But, besides following your dermatologist’s instructions, eating healthier, and using natural products, you MUST stay positive! Things will get better and you have to tell yourself that everyday. The more you cry, the worse it will get!
Hello! This is super helpful! I recently realized that I’ve had this awful rash for 3 or 4 months on my formerly flawless face. Of course, this is after I thought it was dry skin/acne and I slathered every harsh chemically loaded serum/cream/mask/steroid/etc known to man on my face. I did find a new toothpaste that I really like. It’s called Botanique by Himalaya Herbal Healthcare. It’s Flouride/Saccharin/SLS/Gluten Free! And it actually tastes good and so far I really like it. I bought it at Sprouts for about $6.50 for a 5.3oz tube. Hope that might be helpful!
Have you changed your laundry detergents/fabric softeners? I’ve been using Method which is *mostly* natural but does still contain some sulphates including SLS.
Thank you!
Wow! Thanks for the toothpaste tip!! I had been looking everywhere for another brand. I can’t wait to try it.
I have switched to All’s nonscented, but it isn’t as organic as most. I do hand wash my pillow cases though since they come into contact with my face consistently.
I struggle with finding a toothpaste so thank you for the suggestion! I’ve been battling POD for 3 years now
Hello what about ammonium laureth sulfate?
I haven’t come across a lot of information on that specific sulfate, but I do know sulfates in general are harsh on your skin.
I live in Canada, and even though you stated our Government considers SLS toxic, I found it in a lot of products in my house. It was in every single bottle of shampoo and toothpaste that I own. I don’t believe that SLS is heavily restricted, and you can find out more about it on the Government of Canada website about safety of cosmetics. I’m thinking it’s because a lot of the products we get in Canada are actually American products, and really we’re not about to cut off products from the States that contain SLS. Anyway, I’ve had bouts of dermatitis over the years, so I really enjoyed reading about your experience & safe products to use.
Just wanted to say thanks for posting this list. Came across it when researching about perioral dermatitis. Went out and bought the burt’s bees wash and the Yes To Blueberries moisturizer right away and I love them.
Thank you so much for this. I have just developed this and it hurts, is sore and I hate it. stress appears to have been the main trigger as I havent changed any of my skincare and most of the stuff I use is for sensitive skin and doesnt use much SLS. Might look at my sunscreen and foundation though as I am a make up junkie. Unfortunately I live in the UK so some of this stuff isnt available here. Shall search around though. THANKS
Rembrant and Tom’s sells an SLS free toothpaste, they are both pretty good. I usually get mine from drugstore.com, there is normally a deal on one of them.
Kaylee, Thanks for posting some very helpful information about perioral dermatitis. I just got diagnosed today by a dermatologist. I am 56 yr old and have it around my eyes, both sides of my nose, and both sides of my chin and under it too!! It took me 3 months to see a dermatologist in Canada. Meanwhile my general practitioner had been prescribing some ineffective lotions. I have to take tetracycline pills once/day, and was told not to expect much difference in my condition until about 2 months. She also told me to use Cetaphil cleanser for oily skin to wash my face (I have oily skin) but I notice you mentioned it could have parabens in it.
Hi Barbara. I just wanted to say be extra careful even with Cetaphil! I was using it for months before realizing it had SLS in it. The Burt’s bees one Haylee described is really good!
thanks for posting, I live in Australia and have just been diagnosed with POD. I was interested in the products you listed to use, but I don’t think that many would be available in Australia. My dermatologist said to use cetaphil brand products and mineral cosmetics. Has anyone from Australia had any success with products that they would like to share the information. Good luck to all sufferers, it is just terrible to have an outbreak, you feel so self conscious.
I think you should be able to get most of them on ebay. Good luck!
Wonderful Article and Great list!! I finally self-diagnosed after a few dermatologists were not sure and only wanted to Rx some topical steroids! Have you found info in your personal research about healing this from the inside out- foods, herbs, supplements, etc? Thanks!
I have found a toothpaste at Walgreens – Ology Well Being for $3.49 that has no harmful chemicals but does have fluoride. It is paraben and SLS free. I am a little concerned that it contains fluoride because I read this could cause the POD. What are your thoughts about the fluoride?
I’ve read that as well. I know some people have to avoid it. For my particular case (no one seems to be exactly the same), I can use fluoride IF the toothpaste has no whiteners, SLS, or parabens, but not everyone can. On the other hand, I’ve heard some can deal with the sls, but they can’t have fluoride.
The best I’ve found is Jason Sea Fresh toothpaste- it’s SLS AND fluoride-free and it actually leaves my mouth feeling cleaner than regular toothpaste! Highly recommend it.
As a general comment to everyone, I wanted to say, having been diagnosed with this, learning about the ingredients in everything and reading articles that always introduce some new hazard for PD to look out for (one website said it’s the fluoride in my WATER. What am I supposed to do about that??) kind of stressed me out even more. So anyone at that place right now, just focus on the basics and try not to stress about everything because you really don’t have control over everything. And I know it’s incredibly embarrassing to be in public with this but I’ve found once I get that initial look of semi-disgust from someone, if I just start talking to them normally and put on some fake confidence, they treat me like normal pretty quickly. Most importantly, just know that you will get through this. Positive thoughts!
I’d like to add my list of safe products for perioral dermatitis. First and foremost, any sufferer would do well to purchase a bar of pure African Black soap which is found at health food stores. It should be brown, lumpy in appearance (even if cut into a square or circle) and have a mild, earthy smell. If it completely black or smells like fragances, it’s likely not the real thing. African Black Soap (or ABS) is gentle, produces a lot of foam, and treats the skin in a variety of ways including cleansing, gentle exfoliating, astrigent, and moisturizing. Women in africa have been using it for thousands of years and I swear by it. Be patient and use for several weeks to get the full effect.
You will need a serum or moisturizer. Any chemical free one from the health food store will do but I chose Burt’s Bees moisturizer for sensitive skin. It stings less than any other moisturizer, is light, non-greasy, and very effective at getting rid of the dry scales. I live in Alaska where it is cold and dry in the winter time so argan oil is my favorite to use for my hair. I use Renpure argan oil shampoo and conditioner. It is affordable, available everywhere, and is guaranteed to not have any suplhates, parabens, paraffins, hydroxides, bleach, or ammonia. My body wash is pretty limited now to Dr. Bronner’s magic castile soap in lavender for the bath and of course, ABS for showers. I used to use Jason Aloe vera body wash until I discovered that it also contains Laureth Sulfates (how dissapointing). Again, here is my list:
– African Black Soap
– Renpure Argan oil shampoo/conditioner
– Burt’s Bees products (any)
– Avalon Organics shampoo/conditioner
– Dr. Bronner’s Magic soap
– Pure aloe vera gel (any brand that is 99% pure aloe)
– diluted tea tree oil (one drop per fluid ounce of water and don’t buy it unless it comes in a glass bottle)
The rest is up to time and hormone levels
I am SOOO thankful to have come across this website! You have given me hope!! I was diagnosed with POD a week ago and was prescribed a Metro cream along with Epiduo for my acne. My deem said that in my case, it could be the change in hormone due to an IUD as well as stress. He also questioned my gum chewing habits which I keep gum in my mouth at ALL TIMES!! He said that there have been studies that link mint/cinnamon flavoring to a possible cause of POD. The mint/cinnamon is not just limited to gum but toothpaste, candy, etc that comes in contact with my skin. He recommended any fruity gums if I feel the need to chew. I know it is so difficult to feel confident and feel positive but I have a big group of prayer warriors on my side and I pray/hope for God’s healing touch!! Praying for all of ya’ll!
Thank you for posting! I’ve been using the Yes to Blueberries products for a few days and already feel a difference. Have you ever tried the other scents? I bought the cucumber eye makeup removing wipes and love them too. My perioral dermatitis only happens around my mouth, mostly the bottom.
Hey Lauren! Yes, I’ve tried the carrots and cucumbers now. :) I like both of those as well as the Blueberries. Blueberry is still my favorite, but I don’t mind getting the others if it’s in stock. I don’t recommend the grapefruit though because it’s a little harsh because it’s for acne. ;) My dermatitis is in the same spot. I’m glad Yes to is helping!!!
The eyeshadow pallet did not have link to it can you send what brand and link to that ?
Hi Kalee – Just found your post and really appreciate all the research you have shared and all the comments from the other posts. I am 44 and have suffered with POD on-and-off since puberty. It would calm down for a few years, then reappear at hormonal or stressful times (i.e. pregnancy, death of a close family member, sickness, etc) My lastest breakout seems to coincide with other pre-menopause symptoms I am sufferening; so I’m not surprised!!I truly believe that those of us that have this condition play the symptom management game and have to find the right products that soothe the breakout. For me the flouride, SLS, and other products may irritate during my breakouts but they are definitely not the cause of the POD. I can use all kinds of products between breakouts with no problem at all. I am going to try the “Yes” line of products tonight and again, I appreciate your post!
Hi, I have been getting Perioral Dermatitis for the past 3 years during the summers. (still do not know why summer is an issue) the heat maybe. I do notice that stress and caffeine make it worse as well.
I recently have found some products that have honestly worked over night!! Osmia Organics (soothing kit) (free of parabens, sulfates, and other irritants)
My face has calmed and is less red and its only been 4 days. So excited.
Thank you for sharing what makeup products are free from irritants as well. I’ll be on the search of some great shampoo and conditioner as well too.
Thank you so much!!! Just got diagnosed (no surprise though, I’ve had skin issues all my life – already experience eczema on my eyelids amongst an array of others) & this is a great resource!! Loathed the idea of having to research this all individually (as I’ve already done that for my other skin issues) – this was awesome! Greatly appreciate it :)
Just a note to everyone who has posted here. I’ve been suffering with perioral dermatitis too, and found that there is a perioral dermatitis group on Facebook where sufferers share their suggestions for different things that have helped them and products such as make up, sunscreen etc. Different things help different people and it seems PD has many causes, but if nothing else it helps to chat with other people who have the same condition, and to know that you are not alone.
I’m so happy to find this website! i first got pd when i was 14 have been suffering with it! when i was 17 i move from MN to TX and lived down there for a few years and it was almost non existent until i moved back up here in 2012. i wonder if climate plays a role in it? at this point i stopped the use of everything on my face in fear! i’m so happy to see there re products out there that are safe. I noticed there is no body wash on your product list. have you found one that you use? i’m excited to try using make up again! i looked at the foundation and concealer you have on here and they are over 30$ have you found any that are cheaper??
I am pregnant, and have been battling this horrible rash on my face for the past 6-8weeks at least… actually, much more, but, it was just around my nose, and I thought i had dry skin. I wish I had known how to treat it back then!
So, I have been researching, researching, researching this because us preggos can’t have any antibiotics, etc. Here is what I think after my researching and testing. ( lots of fails)
KEEP IT SIMPLE. Just because a moisturizer doesn’t have parabens or SLS, etc etc doesn’t mean you should use it. I used the calendula lotion ( natural from whole foods) and both kinds – california baby + another one ( first aid calendula with alcohol) irritated my face a lot! I tried everything all at once, and then I slowly took things away. I spent so much money on this crap.
Apple cider vinegar works – dries out your skin a lot though… so, don’t do this frequently.
SheaMoisture African Black Soap is probably the best thing to happen to me. omg – I love this soap. I think this is the number one thing to help me at this point. CHEAP TOO! woohoo!! Great on my face and on my body. There are only a few ingredients in it… keep it simple!
For moisturizing – I have been using coconut oil ( virgin) and a natural baby oil gel with aloe vera/vitamin E.
I am nicely healing up, but, the process is slow. The other day, my face felt so dry, I blindly reached for the calendula cream ( with alchohol) and my face turned bright red… it was angry! Washed quickly with the black soap, and moisturized with the oil, and felt a million times better…
Patience! It will calm down! Sigh, this is the worst thought, right?!
hope this helps.
xx
This is SO helpful. Thank you!!!!!! I’m heading to Target (I’m in Canada, some of these products are ONLY available at Target) soon to try out some of the moisturizers and cleansers that have been suggested. I was diagnosed a few weeks ago and have been having a really hard time changing my beauty routine, but slowly but surely things are getting better….I’m assuming it’s a result of the antibiotics AND the changes I’ve made to my skincare routine. But I appreciate all of the comments and suggestions!
I’ve been using Bioderma Sensibio toner and Burt’s Bee’s rosewater tonic, sulfate free shampoo and no moisturizer whatsoever because I haven’t had the chance to get to Target yet. I’m on a hunt for African Black Soap as well. Also I just realized that the foaming water cleanser I’ve been using has SLS in it. Ugh. I’m also terrified of switching to non-fluoride toothpaste because of the damage it may do to my teeth, so I may opt for one that has fluoride but no sulfates. Thanks again to all of you!!!!!
Just wondering…I purchased the “Yes to blueberries daily moisturizer” but I’m not sure if I should wait until my angry red face calms down before I start using it, or if it will help to start using it ASAP??? Suggestions please :)
thanks!
I used it while my face was still red and angry, but do a little test spot just in case.
Thanks for your website and comments. It’s been a huge help for me. I have had pd on and off for several years. Tried antibiotics and sls free products with some success. Then after finding your site I started taking probiotics and zinc and using calendula cream, all have helped but I would still get breakouts. After getting a severe breakout, first time around the nose, as well as the chin I searched on the Internet regarding gluten and there is a link to pd. After a few days of not eating bread I noticed a difference and after a week of no bread the pd had cleared up. For the last few months I have been eating gf bread and my skin has been looking great. If I slip up and eat gluten eg popcorn, too many cakes I will breakout. Hope this helps someone.
I was just diagnosed with PD and now am reviewing all the products I use for known irritants. I usually go to a salon to get my hair highlighted. Not sure exactly what is in the color my stylist uses. Has anyone had any issues with hair coloring and are there any PD-safe hair dyes out there?
Hello, Could any one please tell me any Anti-dandruff shampoo which is PD safe? Thanks
I don’t know one specifically but try to avoid Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and any parabens in the ingredient list. Say Yes is awesome, and I’ve seen they’ve started having hair products. I’m not sure they have one for anti-dandruff yet though.
Hi everyone, I’m 20 and have had so far two large breakouts on my chin. I’ve used a gel antibiotic first and then 2% Arythromycin wipes (and it has gone away! THANK GOODNESS). But I know it will come back. Wondering how long some people have had to dealt with this as well as any at home treatments that you have felt helped. And if anyone has had a dramatic change of location (I’m worried that it will start somewhere else other than my chin). Thank you! And ANY suggestions.
Yes to Blueberries has saved my life, so THANK YOU!!!!!
Thank you so much offering these treatment tips about PD. I got some coconut oil fromTrader Joe’s and just washed my face. It was hard to use because it was thick; however I will stick to it. What is it about the coconut oil? Did you do it every night and also the ACV?
Thanks
I do coconut oil 2-3x a week. If you rub it in your fingers first, it will get softer and even turn to an oil. I do ACV with the mother in it every day. :)
Hi all,
I was diagnosed with PD and Seborrheic dermatitis years after suffering and going to multiple dermotologts who had no idea what was wrong. In my late teens, I was prescribed some strong steroid creams to combact the awful dryness on my skin. I wish I never put any of that on my face because later on in life, I read how these steroids were awful for your skin and perhaps resulted in PD.
In my early twenties, I was still searching for a dermatologist who could figure my skin out when I read about the book DermaDoctor, I ran out and bought it the same day. Dermotologt Audrey D. Kunin adressed all of my skin problems in her book and allowed me to finally get on track with taking care of my skin. I switched to Squiggle toothpaste and started to use the correct combination of shampoos and conditioners to keep my SD under control. I can’t imagine how much more suffering I would have endured without her book.
I hope this helps someone as I had no network to assist me years back.
Good Luck!
Kelly
PD did in fact flare up during college, if you look closely at my graduation photos, you can see the redness on my right lower cheek. It was quite painful
I have been suffering with this condition since I was 23 and just recently turned 45. I have been able to keep things under control for several years by changing the products I use. I avoid all sulfates (not just SLS)and have yet to figure out why I can’t use conditioner in my hair (so I don’t). Just recently I had a POD breakout and think my skin may be rejecting one of my cosmetics (which have worked fine for me for years). I have gone SLS and flouride free in my toothpaste and have even made my own soaps just to be sure. I have also noticed that sulfites in wine will cause my POD to flare up. Red worse than white for some reason. ???????? Such a frustrating condition!!! more recently I read that putting plain yogurt on my face would be helpful and although it does seem to be soothing, it doesn’t seem to make it go away. Anyway…. I just wanted to share some of the products that have helped me…..
shampoo: Little Sprout-Hair and Body Baby Wash (this is the best stuff. I wash my hair, face and body with it). Its Ph balanced and non drying. I have also been happy with Wholefoods Brand Shampoo, but seems to be more drying than Little Sprout. Toothpastes: Spry or Kiss My Face. Both SLS and flouride free. Cosmedics: Gabriel, Larenim (although I think that one of them may be causing me trouble now but not 100% sure. They’ve worked fine for years, so might be something else). I cannot wear lipstick and believe that I have trouble with sunscreen as well. i also suffer from Keratosis Pylori and find it has significantly improved after changing to the above products. Hope this is helpful.
Hi I’m thinking I have this. It’s really really effecting me. How did you initially totally get rid of it?
Hi ive been suffering with PD for the past 5 years (I’m 18 now). I’ve been to dozens of doctors and dermatologists all saying that its a different things but none of which perioral dermatitis. For the past 5 years I had been naive and using the ointments and topical creams that id been prescribed all making my PD severely worse. I have it all over my chin and around my mouth and only recently self diagnosed that it is PD which I wish I had known earlier. I’ve only recently stopped using fluoride toothpastes however am reluctant to take antibiotics due to all the long term effects. I want to get rid of this curse as soon as possible because I am beyond sick of it and have missed so many years of clear skin during my teenage years (I don’d get pimples as I have relatively clear skin except for PD). I want to find a topical cream that will get rid of it. I just started applying azaelic acid cream however find that my skin burns with application. If anyone could recommend a cream that worked for them I’d be eternally grateful.
Hello,
I seem to have a very mild case and I’ve been prescribed antibiotics as well as a Clindamycin/Peroxide lotion to use. The lotion is burning my face, is painful and appears to be making it worse and it’s now spreading, now I’ve heard it gets worse before it gets better, but is there a point to be using the lotion as well as the antibiotics? Has anyone else been prescribed this combination? And is it worth continuing to apply?
Thanks in advance!
Best website I’ve been on for Parietal Dermititis! I’ve had it for a while now and just started struggling with it! ITS A PAIN!! but this website was very insightful! Thank you! :) I have been using an organic tinted moisturizer for foundation and all of the Yes To products seem to help tremendously!
Thank you for your website! It’s so important to know that you are not alone in this struggle!
I’m 25 and I have had PD for the past couple of years, with temporary improvements, but rarely with completely clear skin. As many girls here, I visited so many doctors and got all sorts of diagnoses, e.g. acne, so I was taking roaccutan which helped a lot with bumps but made dryness worse, and atopic dermatitis for which was using steroid creams (which now I know made things worse) and Elidel which didn’t have much effect. Heavy creams like Avene Xera Calm are generally very good, but they make PD worse. Now I’m sure it was PD from the very beginning. 7 weeks of tetracycline antibiotics (Tetralysal 300 mg) didn’t help much though. The only thing that works for me is prescription cream Protopic 0.1%, dry spots go away in couple of days. But it burns A LOT and it still treats only the symptoms. I will now try to go fluoride and SLS free and use the recommended cleansers and moisturizers. Btw, did using probiotics or some vitamins help anyone long-term? And what would you recommend to do during pregnancy, as Protopic is not recommended to use…
Thank you! At 42, I’m having my second outbreak. The first was about 10 years ago and was much more severe. I am using metrogel but had no idea about the chemical stressors. So, in addition to the metrogel, I’ve stopped using anything with SLS or fluoride in it and added a zinc supplement. I am seeing improvement in under a week. It is still there, but definitely calmed down and I have to believe that taking those chemicals out of the mix is helping a ton. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experiences with all of us. :)
I was diagnosed with perioral dermatitis when I was about 22 years old. The first time it ever showed up it was fairly easy to get rid of. I read everything that I could online about it and saw many people talk about the luck they had using apple cider vinegar and aloe vera so I used those and then made changes in my daily routine like changing out my toothpaste for one that didn’t contain fluoride. About 1-2 years after that I had my second flare up – oh and it came back with a vengeance. The sides of my nose all the way down
to the bottom of my chin was covered. It was so red and irritated – it was miserable going to work. I already look younger than I really am, so a break out on my face didn’t help when I was meeting with executive level professionals in my sales job. I don’t remember exactly how long it stayed for, but it was a while. I couldn’t get rid of it for months. I had just gone through a really bad break up and was really stressed out from it at the time so that may have had to do with why it took so much longer to go away possibly? It finally did go away though, and about two weeks ago I just got my third flare up. It seems like it comes back every two years – at least that’s what the pattern has been. I happened to have about half of a prescription for Minocycline left (which treats acne vulgaris but I also read that some people have used it to treat PD) so I’ve been taking what I have left of that. I bought the most organic aloe vera I could find and use that a few times a day. I also use the apple cider vinegar as a toner multiple times a day. The Minocycline I think is what has caused it to start to finally fade – so I recommend anyone who hasn’t tried that to look into it! I have definitely seen a difference since I started taking it. I have 4 more days left of it, so I am praying that it goes away by then! Thank you for sharing your experience with PD! It is nice to know I’m not alone with this.
Hello! I think I may have a mild form of this. Ive been looking at the labels of all my products and dont see anything with SLS or parabens in it so i am not sure what changes to make. My skin is very naturally dry so I put a lot of moisutrizer on it every day (clean and clear and cetaphil moisturizers) and am pretty self-conscious of not wearing makeup at the moment — so I’m not sure what to do, are any of the products you mentioned helpful for dry skin? It seems everything is made from words/chemicals i can’t even pronounce these days, im not sure whats bad and whats good!
Thank you for all this information though Im glad to know im not alone!
– A
Hi Annabelle!
I’m sorry you’re dealing with this! :( Everything listed on this page should be free of the harmful chemicals. I have sensitive skin that leans to the dry side so I would say these would help you as well. The Say Yes to Blueberries moisturizer is something I really like for extra moisturizing, and it’s gentle on my skin. I hope that helps and that your case of it clears up soon!
What would you recommend to exfoliate as that is important for skin health?
In general, people over-exfoliate the skin. If you have sensitive skin -like most with perioral dermatitis – it’s important to be even more gentle with your skin. I exfoliate once a week with a Glycolic Acid pad. First Aid Beauty offers one. I also don’t apply it to where my dermatitis is because I’ve found exfoliation on it makes it worse.
Are there any other products from the say yes brand that are worth purchasing? The blueberry and is there anything else? Also, does anyone have any suggestion as far as a vitamin d serum to use and any makeup brands that are good but healthy for this condition?
Thanks!! Ashley
I would say any of the Blueberry line would be good, but I’ve not tried it all. I do like their eye cream though. I don’t have any Vitamin D suggestions, but I like Makeup Forever as a rule too. Hope that helps!
Hello, I’m so glad I ran into your site. I’m 18 and I just broke out in some kind of rash with little whiteheads everywhere around my chin. It feels so dry and itchy. I immediatley looked it up and all the symtoms of PD match what I’m going through unfortunately. I recently started using Pacifica Beauty products and I think that may have triggered it. I’m going to start using the products you suggest and hopefully that will do the trick. Do you recommend any other face washes that might be a little cheaper and do you use the Yes to moisturizer at night as well. Thanks so much!
Hey Julia! I’m so sorry you’re dealing with it! I also use an essential oil soap a facialist inside my dermatologist office makes. I’m not sure everything that is in it though. I know green tree tea oil can dry out regular acne, and I’ve used it on my chin before when I have had a flare. It has an antibacterial property in it, and POD seems to be bacterial so it can help if it’s not too harsh. I would look for it mixed with something else that is gentle on the skin. My derm recommended Cetaphil, but it made mine worse. It also contains SLS and parabens so I think that’s why. I hope that helps!
I just turned 40 and this condition showed up. I was really stressed out with work/kids/moving so I think that’s why. I was wondering if anyone has used a scrub since having this. I used to use brown sugar mixed with honey and olive oil because I have very dry skin…but now I’m scared to try it. Please let me know. Also thanks for this post…all the tips saved my face and my sanity!
I’m so sorry you’re having to deal with it! It definitely doesn’t make a stressful time less stressful! My dermatologist told me not to use any scrubs on the area because it could make it worse. So while it’s just one opinion, maybe go light with it if you do try one.
Hello!
My 10 year old daughter was just diagnosed with
this. 😕 She’s in 5th grade and it started last May.
Now that we know what it is, I am on a mission to help find the right products for her. My heart breaks for her because it’s currently in flair mode and we don’t know what to do to calm it down. Now I have read this article, Thank God! I am going to buy several items to see which work best for her. She cries every day. Kids constantly asking her what is on your face…. This all just came out of nowhere…. please keep posting so we can help each other! Xo
I’m so sorry she’s going through this!! :( She’s very lucky to have such a good momma to help her through it both physically and mentally. I can’t imagine how hard it is on a little girl – it was bad enough at 21!
Since she is 10, maybe it’s a hormonal change causing it. I’m so not a doctor, but I know from others hormones can really make it act up. So maybe the end will be in site for her soon and the products, masks and other tips will help in the meantime! Sending lots of love ya’lls way – let me know if you find something else that works well, and I’ll add it to this post too! :)
My 10 year old battled it as well this month. Antibiotics are helping as well as avoiding a lot of the things mentioned in this awesome article. I am so sorry – I feel your pain!
I’m so sorry to hear your child is going through it!! I hope it clears up permanently!
Laura Beth,
My daughter is still struggling with it!!! It’s still on her face and I don’t know what else to do. It’s awful.
What is the name of the antibiotic that your daughter is taking? I hope I can ask my dermatologist for it for my daughter.
I recently suffered from a very fast break out all overnight my chin, within 3 days it went from 0 – 100. Although it seemed like the longest time ever, mine did manage to nearly completely disappear within 2 weeeks. This is what I did to help cure mine:
-Antibiotics (oral) 2 x a day for 6 weeks – doxycycline
-Apple cider vinager from a HUGE help, dabbing this on every morning and night and also adding it to my water in the morning (dries it out)
– Removing fluoride from toothpaste
– Washing my face with just water
– I found a lot of moisturisers made it worse, in the end I just used the yellow Clinique moisturiser which is very light
– Along with these simple steps, I tried not to wear make up
After the majority of this break out calmed down, I actually found a product that I use everyday now that I believe would have really helped and has helped with a few of my small break outs since. The product is actually made for perioral dermatitis and acne, made in the U.K.
https://www.lyonsleaf.co.uk/perioral-dermatitis-rosacea-acne
Good luck!
Hey Jess! I’m so glad your dermatitis is clearing up! Thank you so much for sharing your tips!!
Hello lovely,
God bless you for writing this article, having perorioral dermatitis can be embarrassing.
What I used for bad perioral breakout: Benzamycin. It’s a savor for this type of rash and you can get prescription from a doctor a little pricey around $70 (for me in Canada) but clears it up in a week or less 😊
Going to try Yes to blueberries lotion for my face
Thanks again !
For moisturizer I love: Drunk elephant cleanser & moisturizer. This brand is beyond amazing
And first aid beauty brand their moisturizer & cleanser as said previously in this article both amazing and both at Sephora if your wondering where to buy.
I have been struggling with PD on and off for years. I am currently going through one of the worst flair ups I’ve had. I want to share with you all one thing I know causes mine. MINT. I can’t use toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, or have ice cream or tea with mint. I’ve tested it time and time again. I was at the dentist in
early June for a teeth cleaning, I believe that it was caused this most resent flair up. I’m 47 btw.
This has been very helpful. I was recently diagnosed at 60, at a time when my skin had been looking its best after switching to Skinceuticals products. After getting PD I had to stop using all of those products and have been afraid to go back, so I really appreciate the information on the Phyto Correct gel and the Metacell Renewall B3. After trying several moisturizers, I settled on La Roche Posay TOLERIANE DERMALLERGO MOISTURIZING CREAM for the face and there is also one for the eyes (yes, I had it around my eyes also), which has worked well for me. I also used the La Roche Posay Cicaplast Balm when the redness and itchiness were at their worst.