How I Treated my Perioral Dermatitis Naturally at Home
- The Gathered Life
- Feb 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 9
No medications from Dermatologist needed.
What exactly is Perioral Dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a common, non-contagious chronic rash characterized by small, red, acne-like bumps, pustules, and scaly skin, primarily appearing around the mouth. Often mistaken for acne or rosacea, it can itch or burn and may spread to the nose, eyes, or forehead. It is mostly treated by stopping topical steroids and using specific antibiotics.
Symptoms
Location: It typically appears around the mouth (perioral), but can also occur near the nostrils (paranasal) or around the eyes (periocular).
Appearance: Small, red, or skin-colored bumps (papules) that may be filled with pus.
Texture: The rash often feels dry, flaky, or scaly.
Sensations: Itching or burning, especially around the mouth, are common, though some people experience no sensation.
"Clear Zone": There is usually a narrow, unaffected area of skin immediately around the lips.
The cause of Perioral Dermatitis is unknown but researchers speculate it can be caused by topical steroids, fluoride or even heavy creams.
My Story
I first started getting Perioral Dermatitis when I was 21 and I had no idea what it was. All I knew was that it was itchy, red, flaky almost like a rash but not quite. No matter what I did, what products I used, nothing seemed to work. I had no idea what I had.
After 6 months I finally went to see a dermatologist to see what it was. They prescribed me a medication and I took 2 pill in the morning and 2 pill in the evening everyday for 6 weeks and it finally went away.
When I was 24, I decided to try a pimple patch for the first time and of course, my perioral dermatitis appeared again. This is what I suspect caused it to come back as it was the only thing in my routine that was different. But obviously this cannot be confirmed as its unsure exactly how it starts.
I had recently moved provinces and could not find a dermatologist that would take me on as a patient and was unable to fly home to see if they would see me there. I tried to call everyone in close proximity with no luck.
That is when I did a deep dive down the rabbit hole and finally was able to break through and find natural solutions I could try at home. Yes, It took time, patience and consistency to see results but it was worth it.
The Solution was quite simple
& it only took 2 natural products.
Known for its ability to rebuild your skins barrier causing the perioral dermatitis to have a hard time trying to get through.
I started with Kosmea Rose hip oil while I had Perioral Dermatitis but I have also used New Roots Rose hip Oil from my local health store to keep my skin healthy.
A Natural Moisturizing option with the lavender to sooth inflamed skin.
The OM AllFat Calming Tallow is the one I use and fell in love with. It doesn't smell like beef at all!
How to use them properly
All you need to do is wet your face with a warm wash cloth to make the skin damp and apply the rose hip oil directly to the affected area.
Once it soaks into the skin I would apply a generous amount of Tallow with lavender to the affected area.
I used these products morning and night everyday to get the best results.
You can also do this immediately after showering and skip the face cloth.
Throughout the day I would use a diaper cream with zinc when the rash was itchy to help relieve the affected area and stop me from scratching aggressively. Anyone who has experienced this before knows how badly it can itch at times.
I don't use these products as often as I did when I actively had Perioral Dermatitis but I still use the rose hip oil after every shower when my skin is damp and I now use the tallow as my daily moisturizer.
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Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Statements regarding any remedies I share have not been evaluated by the FDA. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before beginning any herbal or dietary program. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information found here.
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