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    Table of Contents

    QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
    ACIDOPHILUS
    ANTIFUNGAL LOTION
    APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
    1
    ...6




    Natural Remedies for Perioral Dermatitis

    Updated: 05/18/2012

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    Burning -- not itching -- is the typical symptom of perioral dermatitis ('perioral' meaning around the mouth). This skin condition appears as a rash of 'papules' around the mouth, bumps that are often filled with fluid and that are red in appearance. Perioral dermatitis looks much like acne and can occasionally extend beyond the mouth, upward across the face. This condition is most often experienced by young women (only a 10% appearance in men).

    Topical treatments are common, though severe cases sometimes are treated with oral antibiotics. Steroid creams are not recommended and can in fact induce an attack of perioral dermatitis. Restoring the body's and the skin's natural balance with active cultures (as in yogurt) or using apple cider vinegar to restore the skin's natural acid mantle seems to offer the potential of lasting relief.

    DISCLAIMER
    Our readers offer information and opinions on Earth Clinic, not as a substitute for professional medical prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with your physician, pharmacist, or health care provider before taking any home remedies or supplements or following any treatment suggested by anyone on this site. Only your health care provider, personal physician, or pharmacist can provide you with advice on what is safe and effective for your unique needs or diagnose your particular medical history.




    POPULAR REMEDIES:

    APPLE CIDER VINEGAR 16 YEAS
    MULTIPLE REMEDIES 9 YEAS
    GRAPEFRUIT SEED EXTRACT 7 YEAS
    INGREDIENTS TO AVOID 5 YEAS


    ACIDOPHILUS
    Ratings:
    3
    		 YEA
    1
    		 NAY
    1
    		 BETTER BUT NOT CURED

    [YEA]  04/18/2009: Peggy from Rutledge, TN: "I looked at the options available from this site and thought I would try the yogurt versus the acv. Mainly I couldn't understand burning your face as a natural treatment. I have dealt with this off and on for three years, usually in the winter months. However, this year I could not get rid of it. I have perioral dermatitis and the lesions just kept reappearing even though I had followed my previous solutions, such as removing SLS products from usage, washing with only dove soap, not using makeup on my face. I refuse to take tetracycline and a natural product was my only option. I tried the yogurt and acidopholis and within 2 days there had been an amazing transformation. You can hardly see the lesions, the redness is totally gone, the dry flakiness is non existent and you really have to look to see any remnants of the dermatitis. I highly recommend this and would recommend it to anyone. Why burn your face (which by the way is causing further damage to your skin) when you can get a nice cool mask, is fairly cheap, and you can pick the product up at your local grocery store. Just be sure you choose the organic plain yogurt."

    Replies
    08/14/2009: Deanna from Calgary, Alberta Canada replies: "Hi All, I too suffered from perioral dermatitis for about 6 years. After several rounds of tetracycline, I began to research possible causes. The main culprit appeared to be fluoridated toothpaste. About 2 weeks after switching to natural, fluoride-free toothpaste, the dermatitis went away. It was amazing. I started to suffer from it again after moving to another city only to realize the water was fluoridated. Switching to a fluoride-free water source ie)drinking bottled water, the dermatitis disappeared again. Be advised however that many foods contain high levels of fluoride such as grapes, raisins, tomatoes, beer and many many more. These should also be avoided if the condition persists after eliminating fluoridated toothpaste and water."
    10/25/2009: Sally from Portland, Oregon replies: "i also suffer from this condition and i agree that using yogurt both topically and eating it works well, but i also think acv works amazingly well! if you dilute it with water it doesn't burn"
    12/28/2010: Herbalshakti from Oakland, Ca replies: ""ACV" = Apple Cider Vinegar. Raw unflitered and that has not been pausteurized is best."
    12/28/2010: Eve from Portland, Or replies: "I keep reading, and have a question, what is acv? my daughter has keritosis polaris, anyone with any suggestions would appreciate it."
    [YEA]  06/20/2011: Lisa from Miami, Fl replies: "Try taking an acidophilus pill along with a biotin pill. It has worked wonders for me. I dont even need makeup anymore! I have suffered from PD for over 10 years! I have finally found something that works without giving up flouride, sls products and all the other crazy things that dematologists claim to cause it. Really simple - 2 OTC vitamins Biotin and Acidophillus! See what it says on webmd for biotin deficiency.....

    "There isn't a good laboratory test for detecting biotin deficiency, so this condition is usually identified by its symptoms, which include thinning of the hair (frequently with loss of hair color) and red scaly rash around the eyes, nose, and mouth. " (webmd.com)

    Does this sound familiar to anyone? I suffer from occasional alopecia but somehow none of the three - yes 3 - dermatologists I have seen were able to figure this out. One dermatologist prescribed minocylline which I must admit completed cleared it but it is quite expensive and very difficult for insurance companies to approve. Also, it will return as it is not permanent. I have tried everything and this is the best my facial skin has looked in over 10 years! I am so happy that I had to share this with anyone who will read.... Good luck to you and I wish you the same success as me!!!"

    09/05/2011: Alyson from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada replies: "I did a 7 day total body rapid cleanse bought from a natural foods store and during the 7days I noticed little bumps above the corner of my lip. The manager at the store told me this was normal as all the toxins in your body come out of your pores etc... This was 6 months ago, this condition continued to get worse and worse. I'm fed up and have been researching my condition. So like most of you, I believe I have Perioral Dermatitis. My whole life I had perfect skin, very rare did I get a blemish. It's amazing how this cleanse caused this awful face condition. I'm taking in all that you have suggested. I've been using the Apple Cider Vinegar and will buy the acidopholis capsules and perhaps biotin pills too. The greek yogurt sounds interesting so I'll buy that too (just seems a bit messy to sleep with).

    My question is, can I still moisturize? The ACV is really drying out my skin and this is sooooo embarrassing considering I have to doll myself up at work every day so flaky nasty skin with makeup is a bad combination. I'm assuming I shouldn't be exfoliating either, because when I do, yes the flakes are gone- but then I'm breaking open the infection and that probably isn't helping. This condition sucks!!! I can't even imagine how some of you have lived years and years with this. I feel for you :("

    09/05/2011: Maria from Gippsland, Australia replies: "Hi Alyson , Aloe Vera gel is very good for moisturizing the skin and it's long term use can help to heal skin issuses. Our skin does help get rid of toxins but when it does it to excess it is usually because your liver is over loaded. Which could easily be the case when an intense liver cleanse is done. I think it would be worth while giving your liver some support, there are a few suggestions on EC that could help. A good startng point is lemon juice in warm water first thing in the morning. Supplementing with milk thistle and also taking turmeric. Plus if your system is acidic (just do urine ph test) do one of the alkalizing remedies. http://www.earthclinic.com/Remedies/alkalizing_formulas.html

    All the best."

    09/05/2011: Debbie from Melbourne, Australia replies: "Alyson, any skin condition according to Ann Wigmore in her book Be Your Own Doctor is a Digestion issue.

    Try probiotics and digestive enzymes. You may have a Leaky Gut so reasearch that. Read Natasha McBrides book.. Google "GAPS diet". There are some youtube videos on her.

    As Maria suggested lemon water is good.

    I would also buy liquid chlorophyl, spirulina and chlorella. Stay away from processed foods they all contain MSG). No "diet" anything as they contain Aspartame. Grow your own herbs. Add unrefined sea salt to your diet. No processed salt.

    I would also buy a colloidal mineral solution and take that daily."

    10/19/2011: Peggy from Rutledge, Tn replies: "This is an update on my original posting. I used the yogurt on my face if I get a bad break out, which began to happen more often lately. I also began using the ACV which worked for a little bit but then after about 6 months it was no longer helping. I returned to this website to see if anyone had any more answers. I don't use anything with SLS or flouride in it but still was having breakouts, mainly around the lower outer rim of my mouth. I tried Ted's remedy, slightly. In the USA borax is a laundry soap and I refuse to drink laundry soap. I did try mixing the borax and peroxide but that just dried out my skin.

    So I tried just the peroxide. Within a week my face was totally clear. I use it at night and in the morning and have been doing so for a month now and still clear. I have had one small pimple similar to when I have a full fledge break out, put the peroxide on it and it is gone in a day or so. I also use a product from Mary Kay (I do not sell it, I just use it) that helps the skin stay nice and soft. I will keep everyone up to date as to if this continues to work. Unfortunately I think this is going to be an ongoing issue but if I can maintain it and keep it under control I am happy."

    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  11/23/2011: Cara from Marina, Ca, Usa replies: "My PD was really bad about three months ago even though I was doing everything my dermatologist told me to. I was on 150mg of doxycycline and clindamycin and I wasn't wearing makeup or using anything on my face. I even got rid of all personal products with fluoride, SLS and petroleum. I was really sick of taking antibiotics without any sign of them working so I decided to try a new approach, stopped the antibiotics and gel and bought Epicuren Acidophilus Probiotic Facial Cream at the spa where I work. My product trainer said that it limits bacterial growth that causes acne by depositing good bacterias that inhibit them. I thought maybe it would do something similar as the gel but in a healthier way, cause we do need bacteria on our skin and shouldn't killing all of it be bad for you? It actually started working in about a week and seriously improved my PD in like two more. I started taking Acidophilus supplements to help it. It got to the point where it was only one red bump and no rashiness for awhile, but I switched up the routine and now it's all angry again. But I honestly believe using this stuff twice a day was what tamed mine."
    [SIDE EFFECTS]  01/09/2012: Tina from Canton, Ohio replies: "I have recently self diagnosed myself with POD, after reading all the comments here I decided to try the Acidophilus and Biotin. I noticed my face was very red after taking these probiotics, is this normal? Does it take several doses before the redness stops appearing? Being that I just got this 3 weeks ago, what do you suggest I do first?"
    03/22/2012: Hina from Phoenix, Az replies: "Along with this treatment (which I believe is helping) try mixing Seasalt with a facial oil (I happened to have Aloette facial cleansing oil - I'm not promoting this product - I've had it for about 5 years and never used it until now - I think an organic olive oil would work as well). Rub it on the PD gently, leave on for a few minutes and wipe off. I did this 3 times a day, in the morning, after I got home from work & before I went to bed. During the evening treatments I wouldn't put anything on my face afterwards for about an hour - then I would put on an SLS free moisurizer. I started it on Sunday afternoon and its almost completely gone by Thursday. Hope this helps - I know how frustrating it is. It also makes your skin very smooth and soft."

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    [YEA]  05/20/2008: Holly from Boone, NC: "I have struggled with perioral dermatitis until I heard about it being possibly a yeast infection and to use yogurt on the face. Of all the remedies I tried this worked the best completely getting rid of the PD. I simply put a "yogurt mask" on my face once a day and within two weeks the PD was gone. I also consumed more probiotics through supplements and fermented foods. Thought I would pass it on."

    Replies
    07/17/2008: Lenni from Juneau, Alaska replies: "What kind of yougurt did you put on your face? & Has it ever came back yet?"
    09/25/2008: Holly from Boone, NC replies: "Lenni,

    It does come back if I do not stay on top of the use of probiotics which my main source os from fermented foods. I must say the yogurt, which I use plain goats milk but any plain should do, make my skin feel so good that I use it several times a week."

    05/08/2010: Hope from Fresno, Ca replies: "hi! so im trying the yogurt mask and i was wondering if anyone can tell me how long do i leave the mask on? thanks soo much"
    11/24/2011: Kelly from Washington, Dc replies: "Hello, I hope I can get some answers from this site. I use to suffer from cold sores as a teenager, but in my twenties they stopped. Then in the last 2 years I have been suffering from what I believe is perioral dermatatis. I keep getting breakouts every couple/few months in which start with a tingling feeling (thats how I know it is coming) right under my nose (mustache area) then the bumps come, and they last for about 1 week. They itch in the first 3-4 days and then I guess the healing time starts and within 10 days it has cleared up. The blisters are clearish in color and have clear pus in them. After they dry up the scar healing process usually leaves a pink scar which fades within months. I don't know what to try. I know they are not cold sores or herpes, they only come to 1 spot on my face, which is right under my nose, above my lip (mustache area). I don't get them anywhere else. I do drink alcohol pretty frequently, and I read that is one of the signs of biotin deficiency. I use Dove sensitive bar for washing my face and coco butter for moisturizer. Please advice on me what it can be and any remedies. Thanks."
    11/28/2011: Andoy from Boise, Id replies: "Looks like you have acidic body. Suggest you go to www.sicknesshope.com and search the site. Then ask Moreless for suggestions."
    11/29/2011: Sharon from Philadelphia, Pa replies: "This is to Kelly from Washington DC. DO NOT PANIC!! It sounds to me like you have a form of herpes (Cold sore type NOT STD). By the way, 80% of the human population has this virus. The best way to find out for sure is to have a Dr. culture a lesion when you begin to blister. If this is what you have it is best to know. The virus can travel to other parts of your face and possibly cause blindness if it gets in your eye. You must take precautions to keep it from spreading or transferring to someone else.

    Here is a webpage with some more information:

    http://healingdeva.com/natural-remedies-herpes.htm

    I am in no way associated with the site, I just googled homeopathy & herpes."

    [NAY]  02/01/2012: Dawn from Springfield, Ohio replies: "I don't think it's herpes. I have the EXACT same symptoms and I've tried typical herpes treatments (before I was diagnosed with POD. ) I will say my face itches more than most people report. And no, acidophilus and yogurt masks have not worked for me. I even bought Kefir which has 10 different types of live bacteria in it. I used it twice daily for a couple days and it's only getting worse. I've tried everything and I'm starting to lose hope :("
    02/02/2012: Leslie from New Castle, Pa replies: "Try Nixoderm. I bought it online through ebay for a couple dollars. I put it on at night."

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    [YEA]  12/10/2006: B from Attica, IN: "After being diagnosed with IBS and perioral dermatitis I knew I had to make a change. I did my research and talked to a few people at the health food stores and then added probiotic acidophilus to my diet. The first week I took 2 times the recommended amount, the second week I cut it down the recommended amount and then have stayed on that amount rather well the past 10 years. It has fixed all the problems with my skin as well as my digestinal tract. All the diseases of the body start in the stomach and colon, the acidophilus either in capsule form or yogurt help correct this imbalance. By fixing the imbalance, everything else falls in line. My skin is beautiful now. I would recommend this to any one suffering from any skin lesions and digestive problems."

    Replies
    09/29/2008: Colleen from Virginia Beach, VA replies: "I was wondering what probiotics helped the skin rash."
    09/04/2009: Violet from St. Pete, Fl replies: "I have perioral dermatitis also and have been unsuccessful with several topicals I've tried. (castor, VCO & neem). I am starting now with the probiotics so I hope I will see some results with this route."
    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  05/22/2011: Anne from Yakima, Wa, Usa replies: "I can't tell you how happy I am to have found this site! I have suffered from Perioral Dermitits for about 6 years and could not figure out what it was or how to get rid of it! My doctor told me what it was after the normal acne treatments didn't work. I have what start out as small bumps, and at times stay small bumps, or they become larger and larger each day and are almost like a blister. Itching, burning, the whole thing. I was using Physician's Formula makeup thinking it was good for me, and Oil of Olay Anti-wrinkle cream. To cleanse I used either Neutrogena Acne Wash or Dove soap. My dermatologist told me I had "ultra sensitive" skin and needed to change everything, my shampoo, soap, laundry detergent, all of it. I changed to a sulfate free shampoo and my head stopped itching, and I no longer get the bumps on the back of my neck at the hairline. And here all this time I thought they were ingrown hairs! I changed my makeup back to Cover Girl for sensitive skin and immediately noticed a difference. I still had issues but it was better. A friend of mine who had bad acne scarring and rosacea said she was using Murad and Aveeno Calming Cream moisturizer and her face looked amazing so I tried those. I immediately started seeing results, a few times my face was almost totally clear but it would always come back, but instead of lasting upwards of 6 weeks it would only last 2, so much better! This last month I had quite a breakout and here I am 6 weeks later and it's just now healing. However, a few days ago I found this site, and I read the posts about using ACV, yogurt masks, and the acidopholis. I also read somewhere about sunscreen and Aveeno having chemicals even though it's labeled "naturel. " That did it... No more Aveeno! I went to the health food store the next day and bought some natural skin cleanser, toner, moisturizer (Earth Science brand), acidopholis capsules, and organic greek yogurt. I have been using these produsts for only 4 days and my skin looks AMAZING! I felt and noticed a difference the very next day! I am hooked on the yogurt mask, and right now I'm using once a day for 20 minutes. I do still use the Murad system only in the morning, and may stop all together to see what happens. I am hoping this does the trick! I'm thinking the sunscreen in the moisturizer may have been what was causing me to still have breakouts. I was using a Neutrogena face powder with sunscreen in it when this all started.... The speed in which my face began to heal these last few days just amazes me! Keeping my fingers crossed, I like what I see so far!!!"
    11/30/2011: Jackie from Syracuse, New York replies: "I have had PD for about 4 months now. It started with a small bump in the corner of my mouth that slowly spread. My mother told me to try to put a little bit of her topical steroid cream on it and it worked and cleared it up. When it started to come back again it would go away after I spent a few days out in the sun so I didn't use the cream again. Once the winter months started to hit and I wasn't spending time outside anymore the rash slowly got worse. I started putting the topical steriod onto it more frequently and it progressively got worse, and then came to find out about 5 weeks ago that PD is caused by topical steroids!

    I immediately quit putting the steroids on my face and had an awful angry flare up that was hideous and so embarrassing. Then it got a little better but was still all red and crusty and embarrassing. So I looked and found this website about 2 weeks ago. I bought organic ACV with "the mother", plain organic yogurt for masks, and started eating probiotic yogurt daily. I saw a huge improvement with the masks, but just the past two days after upping my ACV treatments to 4-5xday undiluted my PD got super angry and irritated. It does get worse during my menstrual cycle but it has been bad this time.

    For me, I'm thinking the ACV has actually made it worse. Starting today I'm stopping the ACV all together and doing 20min yogurt masks in the am and pm since that has seemed to work before. I went out and bought acidiophilus pills today and started taking them. I am also considering buying organic coconut oil to apply after my yogurt masks since some people have had success with that. I do want to try to avoid taking antibiotics if I don't have to. I will post later to give an update on if this new refined treatments have improved my condition or not. I feel for everyone who has this disease, I dread going to work at my hospital because everyone thinks I have some weird disease and the harsh flourescent lights make it look just awful :("

    [YEA]  01/06/2012: Rachel from Kansas City, Missouri replies: "I have been struggling with PD off and on for years, not knowing the official name of the ailment until this year when it got so bad that I consulted a determatologist who prescribed doxicycline. After two months of antibiotics I saw little improvement and decided to conduct research on the internet.

    The worst for me was feeling new bumps grow, the itching and burning, and not being able to stop it. Hydrogen Peroxide would stop the itch and allow the bumps to crust, but at the same time it would destroy good skin and make the condition worse in the long run.

    This site recommended yogurt (plain, organic) and acidophilus, and the results were amazing! I have been using both for two weeks now, and as of today I only have two little bumps left. I know that my PD perhaps is not "cured" but I now know how to fight it.

    Here is what I have learned during my fight:

    1. White crust does not mean healing, somehow the bacteria seems to hide under the crust, and the best is to remove it and treat it with yogurt. Once the spots turn red and stay red (no crust) they are actually healing.

    2. Anti-biotic creams only angered my PD, and steroid creams appeared to feed it.

    3. I kept yogurt handy and applied a thin layer even at work if I felt an itching, new bump growing sensation.

    4. My kids renamed me "yogurt face" so expect a certain amount of ridicule from the family - but totally worth it."

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    ANTIFUNGAL LOTION

    04/18/2011: Michelle from Santa Barbara, Ca: "Hello, I want to share a remedy that worked for me:

    I was suffering from perioal dermatitis for 4-5 months. It moved to my nose area towards the end. I tried using ACV and I believe it helped a bit. But what really worked for me was the Antifungal Lotion. In about 2 weeks of applying the lotion twice a day I'm now finally free of the dermatitis."

    Replies
    08/16/2011: Leslie from New Castle, Pa replies: "What is the name of the antifungal lotion you used to get rid of your perioral dermatitis? Please email me at lklinehamer(at)comcast.net.

    Thank you!"

    05/02/2012: Kyle from Scottsdale, Az, United States replies: "What was the antifungal you were using? I tried ketonazole 2% but it doesnt seem to be working... PLEASE HELP!"

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    APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
    Ratings:
    16
    		 YEA
    3
    		 NAY
    6
    		 BETTER BUT NOT CURED
    2
    		 SIDE EFFECTS

    [YEA]  07/06/2011: Lisa from Vancouver, Bc, Canada: "Thank you to all who posted here about the use of ACV in clearing up perioral dermatitis.

    Like several others, I was using corticosteroid cream to treat my perioral dermatitis, and it was working fine. But, every time I stopped using it, the rash-stache came back. Horrible!

    When I learned that my treatment was probably also the biggest reason I had the problem in the first place, I stopped using the cream, cold turkey. (I have read other places that you should taper down, and that might have been less difficult. ) The rash-stache went berserk; it was red and bumpy and so so soooo itchy.

    The first time I tried the ACV I was mesmerized by its effect. It actually kind of fizzed and bubbled on the rash spots. I don't know what this means, but I think it's a chemical reaction between whatever causes the rash-stache (yeast?) and the acid of the vinegar. It burns, it hurts. But it *works*.

    I overused the ACV treatment, I think, because I felt so sure it was working. My rach-stache changed from being a red itchy bumpy thing to being a sore, crusty, dry thing. It still looked horrible but it was drying out, not itching, and feeling better.

    A few days later the crust began to peel. And wonder of wonders, healthy skin underneath, no rash.

    I'm so happy!

    I am going to keep an eye on it to see if rash-stache shows signs of returning. If it does, I will use diluted vinegar 50/50 instead of straight out of the bottle. And I will resist the temptation to treat myself ten times in a day! But now that I know ACV works, I'm so relieved that I won't be spending my life with rash-stache.

    Thanks to everyone who posted!"

    Replies
    07/17/2011: Sara from Charleston, Sc, Usa replies: "Help! I found this site a few days ago and immediately went to Whole Foods for ACV with the mother. I have been applying it with a cotton ball twice a day as well as using a yogurt mask. I am on day 4 of this and my face is still REALLY red. The PD seems to be drying out a little, but it's not going away. It still really hurts and I haven't left the house in 4 days because it is so embarrassing.

    Can anyone tell me how long it may be before I see any kind of results? Is there anything that I can do to lessen the redness? I have to go back to the office tomorrow and I'm so mortified I just want to cry. *sigh*"

    08/04/2011: Hakan from Arnasvall, Sweden replies: "don't use cotton when applying avc to the face. Use your fingers only."

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    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  12/21/2010: Claartje from Utrecht, Nl: "First of all - thanks for the great site which has literally saved me after months of hell with perioral dermatitis. My doctor started me on a steroid creme, which as many people here pointed out started off helping but then stopped working and it got worse and worse and spread up to round my nose too. I had had some limited success treating flare ups with tea tree oil, but no sooner would one bit dry out than the flare up would move a little and break out again.

    Last week on Monday - 8 days ago - I started the apple cider vinegar treatment. I have to say it stung like hell, my face felt tight the whole time and the flare up given the steroid withdrawal was horrendous. I drank it too. I started rubbing natural yogurt into the inflamed area at night which helped a little. I then started making a mask to apply twice a day last weekend which has really helped and I wanted to share. The ingredients are natural greek yogurt, organic honey and lots of turmeric. I put it on after the apple cider vinegar every evening and morning and leave for 20 mins till it has dried out. It is very sticky and I then rub it off gently with my fingers which I think has helped to remove gently all the dead skin that has got left behind, then rinse with warm water. I read that turmeric not only is very antibacterial, but is also a strong anti inflammatory, and for me it has worked just like that. At night I have rubbed a little st johns wort oil into the red areas which seems to have also helped.

    In addition to this I have been taking probiotics, and a antioxidant supplement as well as the usual zinc and vitamin b and the like (although I have taken many of these for some time now). I really believe that there has been a strong bacterial infection deep in the skin and the mixture of the Apple Cider Vinegar and the tea tree oil and the turmeric has helped to kill it off. I cant believe how much better my skin looks. It is still not 100% scar free, but I have not had any new outbreaks and it is all drying up and flaking off revealing new healthuy skin underneath. Thank you thank you thank you to everyone who posted their hints and tips on here. Without you all I would still be stuck in po hell - while I can now see a return to the clear skin I always had before..."

    Replies
    01/30/2011: Serena from Tucson, Az replies: "I tried the treatment you suggested, but it was far from being real sticky. How much of each ingredient are you using when making this home remedy? Thanks."
    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  03/11/2011: Jamie from San Jose, California replies: "4 weeks in and so far ACV has been a major factor in helping my POD to get better; read my summary below. The information on this site has been very helpful in terms of various natural treatments for POD & medical treatment that has not been successfull for many people. Now I know going back to the dermatologist will most likely be futile.

    I have been suffering from perioral dermatitis for 4 years now, with unsuccessfull topical cream treatment from the dermatologist. I basically gave up and have been "living" with POD and keeping the inflammation down with otc 1% hydrocortisone cream, which I now know is really bad to use. One day I just became so frustrated & depressed that I resolved to continue the quest to find a sucessfull treatment. I have extremely sensitive skin and over the past few years have switched to all organic, natural personal care products with much improvement to my overall skin condition which tends to be very dry.

    In additon my 10 yr. Old black labrador developed a horrible dermatitis all over his body... Inflammed, itchy, dry and flaky skin. I tried every medical treatment the Vet recommened from strong steroids to medicated shampoos, but nothing worked. My poor dog was miserable! It wasn't until (through my own research) swiched him to a grain free, organic, raw based diet w/high doses of fish oil supplements that his skin dramatically improved within a matter of weeks. Sorry to digress, but my point is that we are to a huge degree what we eat. That made me think there must be a natural treatment, or multitude of treatments that will work for my POD.

    Based on other comments here I started with the ACV (organic, w/"the mother") 2x per day, applied undiluted to a cotton ball then directly onto my face on the POD areas, leaving it on 3-5 min. Then rinsing off with luke warm water (no soap afterwards). I also stopped using oral care products containing flouride and completely stopped using the hydrocort. The first day I applied the ACV to only 1/2 my face to experiment the effectiveness compared to the untreated 1/2. I used a yoghurt mask (plain, organic) on the non ACV side. The ACV burned and made my eyes water, but within 1 hour after rinsing off my skin was smoother and I did use a very small amount of jojoba oil to help with the dryness. The yoghurt mask did not work, it made my skin itchy and break out. So the next day I did the ACV treatment to my entire face. The first few days I noticed a slight improvement to the texture of my skin, which I attributed to the exfoliating effect of the ACV, but I still had overall redness and bumps. I was also taking into acount my skin was in withdrawl from the hydrocortisone. The end of the 1st week was the worst, it seemed my skin became worse and I was so tempted to apply hydrocort. , but I was determined to stick with it at least another week. by the middle of the 2nd week I stopped using the jojoba oil after the ACV as a mosturizer and tried a small amount of my organic body lotion (Alba Botianica - original, uncented). It contains no synthetic humiticants. A few hours later my face felt smooth and the redness slowly disappeared. Now into my 3rd week with the ACV 2x per day, rinse with only water (I use a gentle cream cleanser to wash off my eye make up only) then the Alba Botanica lotion to keep my face moisturized, my skin is starting to look better and 90% better than the first week. I also eliminated flouride containing products, and any make up on face (only eye make up). No lipstik either, I have POD on my lips so I use the ACV on my lips as well then use jojoba oil to moisturize them. I have also been eating at least 18 oz per day which contain various probiotics. I have also been taking fish oil supplements for anti-inflammitory/anitoxidant properties.

    Now into my 4th week and the POD is 90% better, but not completely gone. I plan to stick with the regime and add oral probiotic capsules to my diet. I have also tried to cut down on my intake of refined sugars. ACV has helped a lot, but I also think the key to sucessfull POD treatment is a holistic approach (diet & topical treatment), there is not 1 single factor that will cure it. There are just as many things that can make it better, than can make it worse. So far I hope I'm on the right track to keep it getting better.

    I dread summer, because most sunscreens make my skin break out, but I will have no choice but to start using some to protect my skin. Right now I'm just trying to let it breath and heal. Hope this helps someone else."

    04/13/2011: Mmsg from Somewhere, Europe replies: "I've read that coconut oil is a mild and effective sunscreen. read up on it."
    04/13/2011: Debbie from Melbourne, Australia replies: "Aloe vera is also a good sunscreen."
    [YEA]  05/29/2011: Connie from Greensboro, Nc, Usa replies: "Hi All, I am so happy that I found this site, just as I was about to give up and resort to long-term antibiotic treatment. I'm into my second round of prednisone, prescribed by my dermatologist, who admitted he had no idea what the flame red, swollen, itchy rash encircling my mouth and creeping up into my eyebrows and on my eyelids could possibly be. This is even more frustrating since it's difficult to treat a condition that is so hard to identify. Thank goodness for the internet, and to all the brave souls suffering with this ailment that took the time to share their experiences.

    My PD started after weeks and weeks of raging allergies, which caused me to blow my nose from morning till night. The skin directly under my nose was bright red and never would clear up. I thought I was doing myself a favor by using the tissues with aloe or the anti-viral ones. Boy was I wrong.

    During this time I also developed cellulitis and was prescribed strong antibiotics to treat the infection. I take probiotics regularly, but I must not have been taking enough to counteract the strong antibiotic therapy. My first visit to the dermatologist I was prescribed a mild corticosteroid and told to apply it 3x a day. I smeared it all over the affected area, and it seemed to work for a few days. About a week into the treatment, after applying to the area under my nose, everywhere I put the ointment starting to burn, swell, turn red, and itch like crazy. I never thought for a minute it could be the steroid ointment causing all this mischief.

    Back to the Drs. office to find out what was wrong. They didn't have a clue; gave me more samples, and a round of prednisone to calm things down. Of course, the prednisone cleared up everything, and I kept applying the new steroid samples to that area. Then just like before, it all came back with a vengeance. Back to Drs. Office for 3rd time. They are more puzzled than ever; prescribe another round of prednisone, and still more samples to try! I was also instructed to stop using the treated tissues, stop all makeup, moisturizers, etc. This was becoming a nightmare of endless agony to the point where I was too embarrassed to leave the house---except to go to the doctor.

    I knew there had to be an answer out there somewhere, it just takes persistence and people willing to share. Like the suggestions from others I went to the health food store and got the avc "with the mother", organic greek plain yogurt, a bottle of high count probiotics. Started the treatment last night and can't get over the remarkable difference already. I am taking the Apple Cider Vinegar by mouth and applying a 50/50 dilution with water to a cotton wipe and applying it over the affected areas on my mouth, chin, and eyebrows. I also did the yogurt mask and it really was so calming. The visible peeling flakes of skin have almost completely disappeared, the redness is almost not visible.

    The Keflex for the cellulitis really threw everything into turmoil and the topical steroids, along with the prednisone just added to the mess. I feel certain it's a yeast overgrowth underlying these skin issues. Unfortunately, the treatment that the dermatologist recommends makes matters worse with no end in sight. Thank you, thank you, thank you all. I hope everyone has the quick response I've had. It's truly a miracle."

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    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  08/28/2010: Nissa from Corvallis, Or: "Hello,
    I have had this my whole life and didn't know what it was. I finally went to dermatologist, who told me is was the P-O Dermatitis, and I needed long term antibiotics. I thought it was great to have diagnosis! But since then, I have done maybe 6 courses of tetracylcine over the past 3 years. I just finished one this spring and my skin is WORSE THAN EVER. Watch out for the antibiotics!!! Also all the prescription creams such as Pramsone DON'T WORK. It has spread now all over my cheeks up to my eyes, and down my chin and chest. My skin seems to be addicted to the cortisone, and it is not working anymore either. Yesterday I had a huge breakout, scrubbed it with alcohol and slathered with cortisone. It still itched. I am feeling I can't stand it anymore and decided to google a natural remedy (I had amazing results for one for a common "female" infection). I went and washed the cortisone off, applied ACV with a wet cottonball- splash of ACV. It looks better already. I applied again this morn, it burned a ton last night but not so much this morn. I am going to start eating the yogurt/probiotics too. I know from past experience this can only be helpful for so many things. I'll post back with hopefully my long term success! Like my husband says, makes you wonder what these Dr.s really throw at you without really understanding the problem."

    Replies
    09/10/2010: Nissa from Corvallis, Or replies: "OK I said I would post back so I am. It has been 2 weeks since I quit Coritsone and other Dr. Creams. I was using the ACV a few times a day, diltued by 1/2, applied topically. It didn't seem to be doing much, and honestly I couldn't stand the smell anymore on my face, and it didn't seem to be doing anything. My sister in law who is a pediatric nurse suggested I try Cetaphil soap and lotion, said it is amazing on the kids "dermatitis". About a week ago I bought a bar of "anti-bacterial" Cetaphil soap. I started using it 2X a day. My rash seemed to dry up quite a bit, and if I put lotion on, it seemed to want to break out again. I let it get totally dry and flaky. Now 1 week later, I seem to have made a breakthrough! I don't know if it just took this long for my skin to break its addiction to hydrocotisone, but this soap sure seemed to help. Patience, I guess, for your skin to calm down. My face is now soft and 98% cleared up."
    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  09/10/2010: Zsaqwe from Brownsville, Texas replies: "I was cripple with dermatitis for 20 years. I was desperate. And had to quit gymnasiums because when I sweat the make up was gone and I felt people staring at me, I hate it! One very concern lady told me to look for help if I was being hit by my husband. After many doctors and creams, I found a yahoo group that was using ethyl alcohol, ACV, and aloe vera. I was so bless that I have aloe vera in my backyard, ethyl alcohol is easy to get in the drugstore and ACV was in my kitchen (without the mother). I started the treatment washing my face then clean it again with ethyl alcohol and then the ACV without the mother, the one for salads, the brown one. It was painnnnnnnnnfullll!!!!! But I was desperate. I finish covering my face with the natural aloe vera gel from my backyard. In one week I saw the results, impressive, Finally my face can be free of the sones, cortisones addiction. I have find something that worked! I did stop when I got cured for the same reason that you: The smell. Dermatitis come back and the treatment again. Now I decided not to stop because is working wonderful in my face, I guess the aloe vera gel locks the moisture in. I wake up with a beautiful complexion. I do not wash it in the morning I make up over it. Maybe I should to prevent other from smelling my face. I have suffer so much of this dermatitis that I don't care about the ACV smelling face.

    Recently I found this site and people where using ACV for weight loss, I immediately went on my quest to find the "mother". I am having three tablespoons a day mix with orange juice and V8, before eating. I will post results when I am sure it worked for me. I don't dare to doubt ACV it has been a lifesaver for me."

    09/18/2010: Nissa from Corvalis, Or replies: "Hello there,

    I'm back! I just had to come back and say I was wrong about that soap (although I do still like it for my body). In the middle of the week, I had applied cortisone to an itchy bug bite on my leg and my daughters from camping, and I had touched my face. Once the cortisone effect wore off, oh my I had a massive breakout. I went back to ACV, but it still wasn't helping that much. I decided to try Ted's suggestion. I bought a jar of boric acid and had peroxide on hand. I mixed maybe 1 TSP, with 1TBSP peroxide with 8 oz of water. I apply this twice a day. If it is feeling too dry I also apply Aloe Vera straight from the plant, this feels lovely. I started this last Monday and it was absolutely amazing. The best part was the itch going away. I still have a few bumps, but overall this was the most effective thing thus far. It is still returning my skin looks like 90% better. Thanks Ted! I will continue to try the other things to see if I can get rid of it all together."

    EC: Warning! Borax is the remedy used in Ted's formulas, not Boric Acid!

    05/31/2011: Firecracker from Longview, Wa replies: "omg, I totally want to know just what those docs are thinking when they tell you that you have this or that, or worse.. When they tell you that they don't have a clue as to what it can be but here, take all these meds and creams and good luck with all that! I'm 26 years old and just discovered that I have PD or eczema. It started around my mouth about a year ago and I just thought that I had chapped skin or something. After a week it got worse and even though I was applying every type of chapped skin cream, lotion, and stick, nothing would work. I spend at least 3 months straight looking like a clown because right around my mouth I would break out in this big red ring. It was only and always on the sides of my mouth, never above or below which I always thought was odd. It looked decent in the mornings but would always break out quite soon after waking up. I finally made an appointment with a Derm and he told me that he thought it was PD but wasn't sure because it also looked like 5 other things... I decided to google them all as well as signs and symptoms. I finally settled on PD because it was an undeniable match. The creams would work temporarily but about a week after stopping (because the redness would go away) it would come back with a vengence.

    I've given up hope with the creams so back to google I went and found myself on this forum. I was sooo happy to read about Candida being a huge problem and stress causer for this type of skin issue because when I called down to my local vitamin shoppe I was told that they sell products that attack the candida and it clears your skin and also lessens fatigue (something also caused by an abundance of candida). I also read that other things that bring on a flair are alcohol, bread, sugar, processed foods, grapes, tomatoes, etc.. Basically anything spicy, acidy, or anything else above that feeds candida. I'm also going to look into this ACV (apple cider vinegar). I rarely ever ate yogurts before but I've been eating them for the last 4 days, maybe twice a day, and I've noticed a dramatic difference in the redness and swelling/irritation/itching. Its not completely clear yet but it is a far cry from inflamed and spreading out of control! I already eat very healthy and am in the best shape of my life but that isn't good enough to fight this PD badass... Time to get inventive because I refuse to hide in my own house due to something I could be preventing by just taking on an even more natural and healthy lifestyle via switching up my diet. It sucks that I have to give up everything I love to eat and drink but it sucks even more looking like I have some kind of contagious disease (yeah, most people see just that)."

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    [YEA]  01/12/2010: Clare from London, Uk: "I have had what seems to be perioral dermatitis for nearly 20 years, have tried all sorts to manage this but for the past week have used acv in water...very quickly cleared up and very very grateful to this site. It gradually started to reappear when I went a day without sipping the acv and am anxious about taking this long term but so pleased that I seem to be heading in right direction :-)"

    Replies
    02/22/2011: Jackson from Newcastle, New South Wales replies: "ACV is amazing, one use topicallly and I can already notice the difference, I've been the doctors 3 times for it and I was not responding to the minocyclin and being told the same thing again and again. Thank god for this site. Definately use acv! Definately"
    [YEA]  07/18/2011: Marie from Coorparoo, Qld, Australia replies: "I just wanted to say thank you to the posters on this site.
    Like most of the people on here my doctor put me on steroid tablets and told me to apply steroid creams to my PD (around the eyes, mouth, and nose). I'd had for approx. 3 months.     The creams and tablets did nothing. Literally zero improvement.

    After reading the comments here, I started using ACV (organic, unfiltered) and noticed an immediate change. I could not believe that I was on actual prescribed tablets and it did nothing but two days of ACV and I could see it working!

    For those who want to speed up the process, adding manuka honey helped in a BIG way.

    I began flaking while using the ACV so I decided to make a gentle cleanser with manuka honey and olive oil. The manuka honey I had was the New Zealand blend (not graded like most manuka honey, although I'm sure those would work even better).

    I made the mixture and then applied it gently to my face at night. The next morning I woke up and nearly fainted. I would say that there was a good 60-70% improvement in how I looked the night before. I am not exaggerating one bit.

    That was a week ago and since then I do the honey wash in the morning and night and follow it with ACV each time.

    I think in the next couple of days it will be completely gone - you can't really see it now.... well, I can cos I'm looking it for it : P

    Not sure if this will help everyone but I felt compelled to put my two cents in cos I was floored by how much adding the manuka honey helped my PD."

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    12/16/2009: Taylor from St Paul, Mn, Usa: "Apple Cider Vinegar & Perioral Dermatitis

    What a great site! About 4 weeks ago I started getting a rash around my mouth. Was diagnosed with Perioral Dermatitis. Dr. gave me some Metronidazole cream to put on it and at first seemed really to help. Then it came back. So, she decided I needed something stronger and put me on Doxycycline Hyclate pills. They seem to help dry it up but, still have much redness and some dry bumps. I understand that this is an antibiotic and therefore am taking acidophilus also. You all need to understand that we all have and need good bacteria in our system for it to function properly. When you take an Anti-biotic it kills both the bad and the good bacteria in our bodies. You need to replenish the good or you will eventually have many problems including yeast infection or candida. Yogurt has acidophilus or pro-botic in it.

    If Perioral Dermatitis is caused by or encourged by yeast infection than it makes sense that Apple Cider Vinegar works to help it. That is an old and correct remedy to kill Yeast infection. I just put some on the rash with a cottonball that was first wetted with water. After only 20 minutes it seems less red and just a stinging at first. Hopefully this is the answer

    Also, WATCH WHAT YOU EAT! Before researching what flares it up - I went to a friend's house had a couple of glasses of wine and some chips and Salsa. Wow - 3 hours later my dermatitis has flared up like wild fire. I understand Caffine or any other spicy food will flare it up also. Anything that dialates the blood vessels.
    I will post later and let you know if the Apple Cider Vinegar worked or not."

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    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  10/23/2009: Cozette29 from Boston, Ma, Usa: "I used apple cider vinegar to cure my perioral dermatitis. I self diagnosed online after getting the rash for the first time a few months ago. I tried a few different things - getting rid of soaps, lotions, and using a yogurt mask since I read the rash may be caused by a yeast overgrowth. Yogurt worked a little bit, but didn't cure it. After reading about the apple cider vinegar review, I decided to try it. I just bought a small bottle at the grocery store. I splash a little onto a cotton ball and apply it around my mouth twice a day after washing my face - in the morning and before I go to sleep. It definitely stings and the rash turns bright red for a while, but after a few days of this I definitely noticed a difference. It's been about a week and you can hardly notice the rash now. I'm going to continue doing this for at least another week to be sure the rash has completely gone away. At the same time, I've also been only washing my face with warm water, and using a very light, basic lotion. As for other side effects, when I first started using the vinegar, it really dried out the rash and my skin was especially flakey, but I just rubbed a mild antibiotic petroleum salve on it for the first few days while my skin got used to it. I would definitely recommend this cure, it's inexpensive, easy, and you'll see results almost immediately."

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    [NAY]  08/24/2009: Maleehah from Quetta, Balochistan, Pakistan: "Perioral Dermatitis -- I feel so fortunate to have found this site, its wonderful to see people so selflessly helping each other. I self diagnosed myself with PD after surfing the net for pictures, going to a derm wasn't an option because they're so unreliable in this part of the world. Little, unsightly bumps appeared about 7-8 months ago around my mouth and I made the fatal mistake of using cortisone steroid ointment, which as I now understand could actually cause PD.The bumps cleared up for a while and came back with a vengeance a few weeks ago around exam time. Under loads of pressure, the little bumps just flared up, spread to my cheeks and forehead. Reading through the symptoms of the rash I find that mine are nither red, flaky or itchy, quite the contrary their moist and applying ACV doesn't burn at all, which I'm concerned about. I'm assuming its organic coz the ingredients are apples and water only, but there's definitely no trace of the 'mother', in it. (Its really difficult to find anything organic in my city) I've been using it for about ten days, and the PD doesn't seem to be drying up :(, I was really looking forward to having it disappear as miraculously as all the testimonials claim. I also drink 1 tbsp in a glass of water twice a day. I'm using nothing on my face not even soap, just washing with plain water as many times as possible. I used a yogurt mask once, but it seemed to worsen the situation. I live in an extremely hot, dry climate and this summer was particularly harsh. Today my baby brother said it looked like chicken skin which just killed me coz he's right.. I'm hideous! I haven't left my home in ages (I'm on a 2 month vacation, Thank God!) I'm desperate for it to clear up before the next semester of college in about a month.

    I'd be so grateful if anyone could suggest additional remedial measures I could take or changes in my diet, we do consume alot of spices and I've never had a flawless skin, but never a condition of this severity, otherwise I'm quite a healthy 24 yr old."

    Replies
    06/27/2010: Llh from Ventura, Ca replies: "I spent from '92 to '00 trying to figure out what was causing my pd. I went to the dermatologist and they could not tell me. They simply prescribed stuff that didn't work. Definitely STAY AWAY from the cortizone creams they will appear to clear it up but they simply "hold in" the problem in addition to thinning the skin. After you stop using this cream it will flare up like you have never seen before.

    I have seen it mentioned on this site an association with tea and coffee. This was the case for me. I cut out all the tea coffee and sodas with caffeine and it healed up! Eventually I tried some teas and coffee that were "caffeine free" however I did have problems with small break outs of pd. After doing some research I found that even decaffeinated coffees and teas still have traces of caffeine. Eliminating all of these was the answer for me. I've been pd free since 2000 . . . well until April of this year. The only thing that has changed in my life is my roommate has a small dog. I am careful to wash my hands after I have pet her but alas the pd is still present. Will try the apple cider vinegar as well as the probiotics and see how things go. If it is mite related I'm going to attack it from every side. Will post again in a week and let everyone know how it went."
    10/04/2011: Ladybrown from Philadelphia, Pa replies: "Just wanted to say how thankful I am for the internet. Struggled with the disease for about 3 months now and never went to the Doctor's but this article in addition to others has blessed my situation tremendously. All that were suggested worked in just a day. Not completely healed but a dramatic difference than yesterday. Trader Joes had all the items many had suggested in addition to their all natural facial cleanser and lotion. I'm back!!!"
    [YEA]  10/13/2011: Tam from Corpus Christi, Texas replies: "I suffered with POD after using topical steroids on my face for several months to keep outbreaks at bay, unfortunately it became ineffective and once I discontinued the topical steroids on my face it went into a full angry rage of POD in a couple of days. I came across this website which saved me, I was so depressed as it contiuned to get worse each day, so severe that it had me in tears, I was even to embarrassed to allow my loved ones to see my face. Eating and talking was difficult, as the corners of my mouth were split which prevented me from opening my mouth very wide.

    I began with the ACV diluted on a cotton ball twice a day, it initially burned and I had a tremendous amount of redness , but the burning subsided after a few days, I also followed up with tea tree oil at night, it didn't heal overnight or in a few days for me, it was several weeks before it cleared, which seemed like a lifetime, but don't give up and be consistent. I also gave up fluoride toothpaste which helped. I haven't had an outbreak in 6 months. I hope this works for someone else. Good luck because I know how devastating it is."

    11/16/2011: Wini from Mississauga, Canada replies: "Hello All,

    If any one wants a dramatic result. Go buy an over the counter yeast infection kit (3 day monistate) the one with the 3 "egg" type pill things. Cut it open and apply to the affected area. In about 2-4 days the redness and flaky skin will look almost 100% better. While this is only a "bandaid" solution it will clear up the skin if you have an event to go to. Other than that this needs to be treated from inside the body. I myself have suffered from this for years!!! It is so annoying to say the least. While the yeast infection kit is a new thing that I just thought of and tried (with great results) I would say diet and stress level is 100% responsible for this pesky face problem. Also while it is frowned upon, I find that tanning indoors helps out my face a lot. Other than that pretty much what every one else on here is saying is the best solution. Just want to say that this worked for me and I hope it works for everyone, again the monistate thing is a "bandaid" solution ONLY."

    11/20/2011: Jason from Sydney, Australia replies: "Hi, I also have discoid dermatitis and recently I have found that manuka honey worked for me.

    I had the red marks all over my forehead and after applying the honey overnight and moisturising cream for the day time this has cured it fairly quickly as opposed to when I was using a cortisone ointment.


    I hope this helps others! I used Active Manuka honey 5 ."

    11/30/2011: Libby6 from Sheffield, England replies: "Hi everyone I'm 22 and called Libby,

    I have had perioral dermatitis for about 2 months now and have just come of dermovate (potent steriod cream I now know should have never been used on the face)2 weeks ago.

    The rash has been awful these past 2 weeks I feel like Im an emotional wreck everyone glances at my chin before they even look at my eyes and I have cried about 50 times in the past 2 weeks! I don't want to leave the house.

    The rash has been bad but bearable and coverable (to an extent) with make up for the last month. I feel so so sorry for those who have it badly for a long time you poor poor people I dont know if I could cope!

    Anyway I went to the doc yesterday and was put on oxytetracycline for 2 months (nightmare).

    Then I read about apple cider vinegar. I have convinced my friends to buy me some this eve (i didn't want to go out) but the have got me non organic not from the mother stuff. Has anyone used this? Is it still ok to use? I was gonna take it back and get the organic one but IvI decided to give it a go anyway. It stung but wasn't too bad. Hopefully it will work for me too :( ive been putting natural yogurt on it this eve also and that seems to have calmed it a bit.

    I will make a post whether it works or doesn't because this website has made me feel so much better we need to share our experiences because no-one around us understands :(

    This is a horrible horrible condition and I would never wish it upon anyone Im just glad Im not the only one with it seen as the docs make you feel like they really don't have a clue either.

    Oh also I think I got it when the temperature outside dropped suddenly.

    Good luck to everyone struggling with it."

    [YEA]  12/04/2011: Jc from East Coast, New England, United States replies: "Just thought I would post this link here as this information literally saved my life as well as cured me of my skin problems, including Perioral Dermatitis and Eczema. You are all on the right track with Apple Cider Vinegar, Lemons and Yogurt.... Now you need to get more of those, and other Alkaline Foods, INSIDE your body and your skin will Thank You on the Outside.

    My problems were cycles of severe Acidosis and when they say that letting it get too severe can cause coma, they aren't kidding... I was there 5 years ago with no explanation as to why. Please go to this link to start with and then do a search on Acidosis. It causes many problems in the body that cannot be explained. It costs nothing but a little time to keep your diet more balanced (unless you buy the inexpensive PH test strips to monitor your PH). I'm just sharing it in hopes that it will help someone. You can fix and avoid many health problems right at home with food!! :0)

    Oh, I should also add that my tap water was very soft (acidic) so it was part of the problem... Now I just add a slice of lemon or lime to every glass of water to get it balanced. Even though citrus foods are acidic, they have an alkaline effect on the body."

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    08/09/2009: Emma from Wakefield, West Yorkshire, UK: "Hi all, thank god i found this website!!! I have perioral dermatitis i have suffered with this for about 10 years, i started with this after taking accutane for acne, i never had it before - this was about 10 years ago. Oxytetracycline has cleared up the dermatitis in the past but i have got an especially bad bout of it this time after taking accutane from the Derm for a second time, so i have been in search of other solutions. I have come accross the ACV, i have been using it for 3 days - an organic unpateurised version from the health shop, i have applied it topically 3x a day and it has worked almost immediately - reduced redness and bumpiness etc., it works better neat for me rather than diluted. I am also using calendula cream to moisturise. I am taking two tablespoons of the vinegar in a 500ml bottle of water 3x a day, i have seen a good improvement and will continue further to see what improvements i get. I have also found that a white clay powder mixed with lavender water in a paste as a face mask put on the affected areas in the evening before the topical application of the ACV really helps as well.

    Questions:
    1. Should i not use moisturiser as i have heard that it can make the perioral dermatitis worse? - is the ___ calendula Cream OKAY to use?

    2. What should i wash my face with - i am avoiding all SLS SLES etc... products and i'm using a natural glycerine soap from the homeopathic shop - any body recommend anything else?

    3. From using accutane my lips are dry as hell can anybody recommend a lipsalve without petrolatum/ paraffin or any of the other nasties - i have been using calendula oil at present

    4. What brand of ACV is best

    5. Can anyone recommend a foundation or cosmetic line to use that wont aggrevate the dermatitis

    6. Any other suggestions??"

    Replies
    08/19/2009: Justbelieve from Los Angeles, Ca replies: "I got PD from accutane as well a few years ago and everything the dermatologist has given me never worked. Apple Cider Vinegar is the ONLY thing that works! I hope we can all find more cures in the future:)"
    09/12/2009: Angelica from Aylesbury, Bucks, Uk replies: "I also had this bumpy type of eczema when I was younger - after I had been on the contraceptive pill for 10 years and came off it. At the time, I used the homeopathic remedy Rhus tox, but that was for about a year before the eczema went. Now, looking back and having learned much more about nutrition, I realise that the remedy at the time did noting but the eczema can sometimes be caused by an estrogen imbalance. I would suggest some of you explore that idea a little further ... Much later, I discovered that I had low stomach acid which meant that for years (30), I had not been digesting my food properly (specifically fats - hormones are made of fats) and so my body struggled to balance. Many other problems arose too but that's another area. Hope this helps with your research."
    [YEA]  04/29/2010: Kat from Seattle, Wa replies: "I've never had PD and was recently diagnosed with it. My naturopath recommended the apple cider vinegar along with honey, vitamin C and probiotics. She thought yeast might be the culprit based on what my lips looked like. The directions were as follows: splash a little bit of apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball and lightly touch the skin around your lips - once a day. The vinegar will dry out the lips and take away moisture yeast needs to thrive. 10 days should be enough, but everyone is different. Meanwhile, apply honey on the lips for moisture and to prevent cracking once or twice a day. Use a double doze of probiotics during the 10 days, adhere to a well balanced diet and take vitamin C. My naturopath suggested 2000mg a day for me. Overall, my PD took around 3 weeks to clear. The important thing is to watch out for infections from the dried lips and consult a doctor/naturopath if you feel the rash has changed."
    [SIDE EFFECTS]  09/06/2011: Sienna from San Diego, Ca replies: "I am at my wits end.

    This started 1 year ago when 2 little red bumps showed up in my face. I went to the dermatologist and I was prescribed Desonide for 3 weeks, and I was told to change my moisturizer. To repeat if it did come back. I did that, it went away but kept coming back. NOT knowing I was putting steroids on my face I kept reapplying the Desonide as instructed.... Maybe for about 3 or 4 times total. Well, I finally googled what I had and realized it is Perioral Dermatitis and the desonide IS THE CULPRIT and not the help. So I stop it 1 week ago, and.... It is been down hill since then.. OMG I am miserable. I was able to hide it with natural makeup or nothing the first few days, now my face is a big giant red mess. One side under my mouth and a bit around my nostrils. The ACV seems like it is irratiting it more. I did buy the one Organic with the Mother. I do put the yogurt mask. I do drink a cup with 1 little lid of vinegar with water. And I have been taking oral antibiotics now for 4 days with no improvement....

    This morning I woke up with tons of white little bumps, so the pustules have pus now... Beautiful sight in my face... PLEASE HELP! What am I missing? Why is it soooo red? It looks like a wound not just red little bumps. Did I make it worse by putting the vinegar? Looks like it. Please help!"

    09/06/2011: Sienna from San Diego, Ca replies: "I would like to add that I am also taking:

    - Probiotics with an empty stomach and plenty of water

    - Biotin and Vit C, Vit D

    - No wine, no spicy food, lots of veggies and fruits, I just don't like greassy food.

    The white pustules went away with the last wash with 50/50 vinegar but it really looks like one giant wound, all red, terrible... Omg HELP! I pray people don't look at my face and hide as much as I can but I really can't!! Gosh! What to do? I have an appointment with a new dermatologist tomorrow. I can't stomach seeing the one that caused me all this misery ever again :(

    THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP AND SORRY YOU HAD TO ENDURE THIS AS WELL. But like hubby says, no worries, you will be OK, it might take some time but at least is not dangerous.... Right, I should keep things into perspective, but it is in the middle of my face! People are going to think I have crazy acne and I went on a scratching spree or something, I never touch my face, barely dry it with a clean towel each time. Ack.... Help help help"

    [NAY]  09/08/2011: Sienna from San Diego, Ca replies: "A word of caution.

    When you apply the vinegar, you may want to do a test patch, and start only with diluted.

    It turns out, because I didn't diluted initially I did have some skin breakage and that triggered an infection. It inflames the skin more. So probably seeing how many people have good results it helps as long as you don't make it bleed or, in sensitive skins, like mine, you have to be very, very careful and dilute it or may not even work. I don't know anymore.

    My new dermatologist is a clinical dermatologist (not cosmetic one, gosh how much I hate my old one now.... ) and he says I have Perioral Dermatitis but in one spot it got infected with staph so I really have to be very careful with hygiene and I am on oral and topical antibiotics. If I thought that PoD was bad enough ....

    So just as a word of caution, what might work for many might not work for all, be careful, do a patch test, and start maybe diluted.

    I will keep you posted. Pretty depressed right now, but have to keep my "chin up" for my family. I wish I could hide for 3 weeks. That's how long this nasty thing can take to clear up.... Omgosh.... I am ready to get a facial mask and go around with it, seriously... Has anybody tried that? it would avoid the stares , maybe not... AAAAAHHH HELP! I need a miracle!"

    [YEA]  09/08/2011: Sienna from San Diego, Ca replies: "Well my MIRACLE arrived! I really don't even want to celebrate too early. But I washed my face following my new DErmatologist instructions with Betadine diluted and Peroxide and then metrogel on top. I slept all night and woke up with my skin ALL DRY and peeling, all the yucky gunk washed of this morning. I have NEW clear skin, very red and tender but looks so much better.

    Now in retrospect I think the Vinegar DID WORK. Maybe for my very sensitive skin I went to aggressive and should have started with very diluted but anyway, now that it is all peeled I think it did work. The metrogel will keep it clean I hope but I will keep the washes with ACV too, just diluted. And I am also drinking very diluted ACV twice a day. PRetty much eating only fruits and yogurts and yesterday I had a bite of grilled chicken. Drinking loooots of water too.

    OMG yesterday I was near a nervous breakdown and today I couldn't believe it.

    The one thing I also did was listen to my relaxing tapes 2-3 times telling myself that my skin would clear soon, and trying to relax a lot. Maybe all together worked.

    So hey if you feel like POD is hell, and you are miserable, there is light at the end of the tunnel.

    Just be VERY patient for me the ACV process took 2 weeks to the big peel today. I do have lots of redness but looks soooo much better.

    THANK YOU ALL!!!! HEALTHY VIBES YOUR WAY EVERYBODY! I think I learned a lot from here, really, thank you!"

    09/22/2011: Neels from Charlotte, Nc replies: "Sienna from San Diego, Ca - can you tell me the amount you used of the ingredients, with Betadine diluted and Peroxide and then metrogel on top.

    Thanks!"

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    [SIDE EFFECTS]  08/09/2009: Jj123 from Calgary, Alberta, Canada: "I have been using ACV on my face for perioral dermitis for a week (morning and night on a swab). It stings like crazy on the open skin but I am determined to stick with it. I then open a vitamin E capsule and apply the oil. Just the last couple days ago the ACV made my skin very hot and bright red all over. My reaction to it is getting stronger - now it stays hot and red for a while before it calms down. Is this normal? Has anyone else experienced this? I am just wondering if I should stick it out and hope it's just what happens to some people or if I should try something else..."

    Replies
    08/14/2009: Deanna from Calgary, Alberta Canada replies: "Hi there Jj123, I as well am from calgary. I just wrote a feed regarding avoiding fluoridated toothpaste. It made all the difference until I moved to calgary then it reappeared. I realized the city fluoridates the water. This has made it problematic again as the skin absorbs large amounts of fluoride. If you are interested in hearing more about the many major problems with fluoride and how it can be avoided please email me dkdelisl@ucalgary.ca"

    EC: Jason Uttley has two of the best articles on fluoride poisoning on our site:
    http://www.earthclinic.com/fluoride_questions_and_answers.html
    http://www.earthclinic.com/CURES/fibromyalgia.html#cause

    08/15/2009: Tussy from Clinton , Iowa replies: "Hi there I have and question and it might seem silly. But I was wondering can you mix the borax with tap water? I know it would be kind of defeating the purpose but I cant really afford a filter right now"
    08/16/2009: Jj123 from Calgary, Alberta, Canada replies: "Thank you everyone for your comments. I have now had to stop using ACV. I am not sure it is related but I broke out in a rash on my neck, chest, eye lids and inside of arms. It is extremly itchy and bright red. I stopped using ACV to see if it will go away. So far it hasn't though and it has been 1 1/2 weeks. Also I have switched to a non-fluoride toothpaste and we have a reverse osmosis water filtration system."
    11/25/2009: Sp from Nashville, Tn replies: "If ACV is too strong for you, you may want to dilute it with water (50/50).

    Borax/Water -I make a mixture of borax and tap water in the palm of my hand to wash my face with every morning. My face feels clean and no drying."
    02/03/2011: Alaskalady from Anchorage, Alaska replies: "It might have been Vitamin E oil that caused the redness. I had a contact allergic reaction from Vitamin E oil, so be careful about using this... or better yet, don't use it at all."

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    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  05/30/2009: Bella from Sydney, NSW: "Apple Cider Vinegar reduced the appearance of my perioral dermatitis.

    Hey my names bella. After reading this site desperately 2 days ago, i decided to try using the apple cider vinegar on my face to reduce a breakout of dermatitis. I have recently been put of doxycycline for my dermatitis but found that i had a massive outbreak as soon as i started using the antibiotics and stopped using the steroid cream. I have also just moved in with my gorgeous boyfriend and was horrified and embarrassed when this happened. So i began desperately searching the net for home remedies and came across the 'apple cider viniger'.
    I have been using this for roughly 2 days now and can already see a difference. I have used a face wipe that has been dampened with warm water and a splash of ACV. I have done this a couple of times a day and can already notice the bumps, and blisters/pimples reducing. I highly recommend you just GIVE IT A GO."

    Replies
    06/01/2009: Sebastian from Montreal, Quebec replies: "I use 1/2 green tea and 1/2 White vinegar. This has done miracles for my scalp and wonders for my face. Apple cider vinegar alone did not do much, but Green tea plus White vinegar are amazing."

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    [YEA]  04/20/2009: Sally from Portland, Oregon: "ACV is liquid gold! POD came on unexpectedly a few weeks ago and i began taking ACV internally, 1tbsp/3x/day and wetting a cotton ball with water first then dipping it in ACV and applying it to the affected areas-around my mouth on both sides. At first i didn't think it was working, it burned like HELL! and made the area very red, but also relieved the itching. at night i would apply the diluted ACV topically and also rub a salve made of organic olive oil, calendula and tea tree on the area. i would alter the olive oil salve with coconut oil. I also ate 1-3 tbsp of coconut oil as well for several days. doing all of these steps the affected area has greatly improved in less than 7 days! i was considering making an apt w/a dermatologist, but thought to try natural remedies instead. Earth Clinic is THE BEST! i have used so many remedies on this site and they have ALL worked incredibly! my advice is to try the recommended treatments for 3-7 days diligently and be optimistic! thank you everyone for posting your experiences! thank you EC for putting up this amazing site! it's so great and encouraging to see people helping people! best wishes to all!"

    Replies
    07/21/2009: Nancy from Toronto, ON replies: "Sally, when you took the ACV did you take it straight or with something? I have had POD in the past and it was cleared up, so I thought, and have recently had a bought of it and it's been more concentrated on my forehead, but that is new for me. I have been using the ACV straight on my face with a damp pad, and I have noticed a reduction in the redness....thank heavens. The itching has reduced as well. So happy I found this site. I was ready to make an appt at the Dermatologist, but was dreading having to go on any medication. Thanks everyone!"

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    [SIDE EFFECTS]  03/01/2009: Taryn from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada: "I have been dealing with an outbreak of PD for about 3 months now. I was prescribed metro gel for what my Dr. originally thought was rosacea. All it did was make my rash worse and cause many red bumps. I now have some red bumps on my upper lip, and in a ring around my mouth with my entire chin is covered in it. :( It is not super red, but still noticable and flaky at times. Not itchy or painful though. I stopped using the metro gel and went back to my Dr. She then prescribed clyndamicin. I used it for awhile and didn't really see any results. If anything it was getting worse. Now, after reading this website, I am trying apple cider vinegar. I started using it 2 days ago and so far don't feel like it's helping. I have new red bumps and overall the whole area is just redder than before. I am hoping this means it will just be worse and then get better. Has anyone else experienced a worsening of symptoms and how long did it take in general for you to see positive results. I have not taken it orally yet, but I am considering it. I am not using the organic kind, although I can see from the site it is recommended. I will likely buy some in hopes that it will help more than the regular stuff. The amount of time I spend looking at my face and feeling horrible about it is just getting to be too much. Ugh!! I hope to hear back from you and also really hope these remedies are working for you. Hang in there!"

    Replies
    03/01/2009: Andrea from Ontario, Canada replies: "Hi Tayrn,

    I broke out with Perioral dermatitis after handling contact cement, (apparently adhesive products can trigger it among other things). The rash went from one corner of my mouth straight down then across the chin and straight up to the other corner. I applied ACV to the rash and when the acv dried I then applied Calendula cream over the rash. You can find Calendula cream in health food stores, it's used for skin problems. After a few applications of both I started healing within a couple of days, applying both 3 x's per day. Within a week it was healed and gone. You sound like you have a tougher case of it, so not sure this will help. Good luck I hope it does, I know how badly you must feel."

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    [YEA]  02/03/2009: Flo from White Plains, NY: "Perioral Dermatitis and Apple Cider Vinegar: About a year ago I went to the dermatologist with a bumpy, itchy rash on my chin and mouth. The Derm determined that I had Perioral Dermititis and prescribed an oral anti-biotic and 2 different high-dose steroid creams to be used for 2 weeks. I spent $500 on the visit and the treatments and the POD disappeared. BUT, I was told at the time that if I ever got pregnant the POD would come back, likely worse than before and that I couldn't take anything to treat it then due to possible side effects to the growing baby. Well, here I am, 4 months pregnant and the POD flared up big time. Itchy, red, bumpy, flakey, cracked skin and spreading. So, I found the suggestion of Apple Cider Vinegar and for $2.00 I bought a bottle of organic, raw, unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar. I put in on a cotton ball, twice a day and dabbed it on the area. The first 2-3 days it stung really bad (nevermind the terrible smell) and the rash seemed to get a bit worse, with extra drying and flaking and more pain...but then day 4 the bumps went away, as did the flaking skin and the bright red color is fading. Now, when I put the vinegar on it barely stings at all. I promised myself I would do this treatment for at least a week and it's been 4 days and I already see a huge improvement and I will continue using this. Because I am pregnant and I have organic, unpasturized Apple Cider Vinegar I am not ingesting it, I am simply dabbing it on the affected area twice a day, morning and night. Also, since it is currently winter I need to protect the rash and my skin from the cold so after the vinegar dries I put Aquaphor ointment over it (I've used this before with no change in the condition of the rash). Lastly, I am not using my old face wash/SPF face lotion on the affected area-- though I do still use that on the rest of my face, as I have for the past 10 years...so the rash is not a result of change of product or use of too much product as I don't put make-up on this area either. The only thing I use to wash the POD is an organic baby-body wash, with no chemicals or perfumes. Thus far, I am thrilled with the result-- thanks to everyone who recommended it. This is one happy pregnant-mommma-to-be!"

    Replies
    02/22/2009: Ger from Sante Fe, NM replies: "I am estatic that I just found this site. I, too, had oral dermatitus recently and my doc prescribed a steroid cream which did not work and then he prescribed minocyclene, an antibiotic pill. Several days later I ended up in the hospital for a week with an allergic reaction to minocyclene only then to develop BOOP disease, an organizing pneumonia requiring 6 weeks of recovery. I was very weak and sick requiring fulltime care. In the healing process with yet other drugs, my dermatitus disappeared. But, alas, this week it is starting again near and under the nose.The breakout is itchy, red and bumpy. I am on my way to get the apple cider and start today. I thank everyone for their blog and will give an update in 7 days. I am so hoping this natural way is the cure for me."
    [YEA]  03/04/2009: Ger from Santa Fe, NM replies: "AMAZING CURE! This is a followup to my email on Feb. 22nd, saying I found this site and would try the cider for two weeks for oral dermatitus. The cider actually worked! Here are my recommendations. Dilute the cider and try it twice a day, then cut down to once a day due to the itching and dryness. I used chapstick or a serum every third day for the dry itching under the nose, as well. I am especially careful to keep my hands off my face due to germs. My rash is almost clear and I appreciate knowing that if it comes back, I can get my cider out! Thanks to who ever set up this site. Ger"
    07/08/2009: Maria from Durham, NC replies: "I read here that a lot of people were prescribed topical steroids for POD. Do not use it! I read and am a living prove that it worsens it. When my POD break out happened last winter I tried everything and failed. I had a steroid cream orescribed to me long time ago for contact dermatitis on my body and decided to try it. The rash was gone withhin a couple days, but now when I don't use it for a day it comes back. I read on a few websites that it is the case. While helping with the rash it causes a sort of addiction. I do not want to rely on the steroid cream for the rest of my life and will try ACV and yogurt. I belive that many skin problems are related to digestive system. Any problem can be fixed from the inside."
    11/27/2010: Clairebear from Castro Valley, Ca, Usa replies: "Hello all. At 28, I have recently been diagnosed with perioral dermititis. I believe I had my original flare up about 1 months ago. Foolishly, I borrowed some steroid cream from my sister and applied it to the area around my mouth/chin. Like many others, the POD went into overdrive as soon as I stopped using the topical steroid. After a little research on the net, I was confident I had POD. I went to see my derm, and sadly he confirmed my suspicion. He prescribed me an oral steroid (doxy) and to my horror gave me some more steroid cream! I have been taking the antibiotic for 4 days now but I will not use the cream. I'm committed to weathering the storm and not falling into the steroid trap! I do not consider myself to be particularly vain, but the POD has really knocked down my confidence and self esteem. What made matters worse was that there is so little definitive information about treating POD. I really started to panic reading that many traditional med. sites offer months of antibiotic courses with no promise of success. I have to admit, I started to feel a little depressed. I feel embarrassed explaining my desire to "lay low" until the rash has improved, because as my boyfriend said "it's not like you lost a limb or something. "

    I am seeing a tiny bit of improvement after 4 days, but I'm not sure how to explain this. I have already switched over to a natural tea tree "soap-less" cleanser (no sulfates). My sulfate free natural shampoo/cond. is on its way. I have switched to a natural fluoride free toothpaste. I'm so grateful to have found this thread! I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with taking the supplement MSM? It was recommended to me at my local health food store. After some research on MSM, it seems to be a relevant thing to try as far as helping to create better conditions for healthy skin. Any thoughts or experience with MSM would be greatly appreciated.

    Today I started the Apple Cider vinegar regimen. I mixed 2 tablespoons in a glass of water and chugged it down. Then I dabbed a cotton ball with ACV on the effected area. Call me crazy.... But within an hour I have noticed that the tightness and itching have become less intense. I am going to stick to it and continue to take my course of antibiotics. I am keeping my fingers crossed! I will post updates as to my progress. One other question... Can any of the ladies out there make a recommendation to me for makeup (once the flare up dies down a bit). I was already using the very popular brand mineral powder, but I have read that bismuth oxychloride, talc, phthalates, nano-particles, and perfumes can really irritate folks like us. I have found an alternative powder, but any recommendations for a concealer/foundation etc. Many thanks and lots of positive vibes for all the POD sufferers out there."

    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  12/28/2010: Lynn from Los Angeles, Ca replies: "Your story is so similar to mine that I had to write to you. In November, I dabbed some tone corrector/dark spot remover while I was at a friends house and went out for the night. Big mistake! The next day I woke up with little red dots on the spots where I applied the cream. I thought I was breaking out b/c my skin is so sensitive and so I made a note to myself never to use that cream again. The dots stay on my face for 2 weeks. I go in to get my eyebrows waxed and my esthetician asks me what's going on with my skin. I told her I'm breaking out and she tells me that it doesn't look like a normal breakout but rather an allergic reaction to something. She tells me to use some cortizone cream and take some benadryl. I do that for 2 nights and by the third day my skin is 100% improved. My skin stays normal/great for one week. Then all of a sudden out of the blue on a Monday my face swells up with red, itchy pimple-like bumps all over. It was 10x worse than it was after the initial application of the tone corrector.

    I made an appt with a dermatologist and he said I have Rosacea. He tried to prescribe an antiobiotic and steroid cream but I refused to take it. I went home and cried. I was devastated by the diagnosis. I know that sounds like an exaggeration but I was full fledged depressed by the news. I felt hideous. After feeling sorry for myself for a good 2 days, I turned to earthclinic to see if ACV could help me. For 2 weeks I've been dabbing ACV on my face followed up by coconut oil (I'm also ingesting it 2x a day). Gradually, my face started to look better. The redness lightened and the bumps began to go away. I still have some bumps but it's nothing compared to how bad it was.

    I saw a different dermatologist today for a second opinion. She diagnosed me with Perioral Dermatitis, prescribed me one month of antibiotics and a prescription cream. I don't want to get the prescription filled. I'm going to continue with the ACV and get one more opinion before I resort to any kind of rx. Good luck to you and give an update on your status when you get a chance."

    12/29/2010: Aginto from Toronto, On replies: "Hi Lynn,
    Try adding lots of Vitamin C to your diet. Vitamin C encourages Collagen production which is great for your skin/face. Also, try taking Lysine as well. There is a theory that the increased redness in your skin is due to a different underlying condition; in this case your vein walls aren't very strong. I've heard of some women who have minimized the redness in their skin, and reduced symptoms of rosacea by adding about 5000-8000 mg of Vitamin C and 1500 or 2000 mg of Lysine (spread out throughout the day). It will take a few weeks to see results, but well worth it. Good luck!"
    03/15/2011: Asand from Louisville, Ky replies: "My dermatologist had prescribed me topical steroids (vanos) about 4 months ago for small red bumps. It seemed like a miracle drug, my bumps quickly cleared but when I stopped using the cream, they would reappear. Eventually, the steroid cream couldn't stop it... The rash worsened. I went back to the doctor and she diagnosed me with POD. I stopped using the steroids... Which made me look like I had terrible burns around my mouth and nose. It was awful. My skin was bumpy with pustules and very red. Make up couldn't cover it.

    (I was also recently diagnosed with celiac disease which means I have a gluten allergy. My digestive tract has been damaged and is in repair. I believe the POD is related.)

    So, my dermatologist gave me sumaxin face wash and an anti-bacterial gel to use 2x/day. It itched and burned the first week, but I stuck with it. I cut out cinnamon and floride in my toothpaste. I try to drink bottled water. I don't wash my face with hot water, only lukewarm.

    The rash is SLOWLY going away. I've been on treatment for 4 weeks. It is still a little dry and I use Cera ve moisturizer AM and PM to help.

    Also-A great MAKE-UP that won't irritate the POD is Jane Iredale. She has a website.

    Hope this helps! It is difficult to live with these diseases, but stay hopeful and try not to stress about it. YOU are not alone!!!"

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    [YEA]  01/25/2009: Amanda from Hurst, Texas: "I came across this site one day searching for cures for perioral dermatitis. I saw how many good results people were having with apple cider vinegar so I figured I would give it a shot. My grocery store didn't carry the organic so I just bought the regular kind. I also purchased some balmex after reading some good comments about that as well. After 3 days of cleansing the face with ACV and sleeping with balmex on at night my face is almost completely cleared up. Thanks so much to everyone who posted you definitely helped me."

    Replies
    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  02/24/2011: Heidi from Minneapolis, Mn - Usa replies: "After reading all of the suggestions for using apple cider vinegar on your dermatitis I decided to give it a try. I did not drink the ACV, but rather just used the solution of half ACV and half water and with a cotton ball swabbed it on the area affected (the skin on either side of my nose) two times a day - morning and night. After letting it air dry, I put a moisturizer protectant over it - Cetaphil - which has no dyes perfumes to irritate further. Within two days I saw a huge improvement and I am sure in a couple more days it wil be completely gone. I am so glad I found this website!"

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    [BETTER BUT NOT CURED]  01/23/2009: Meadow from Port Mcneill, British Columbia, Canada: "I have had a very red, blotchy rash on my face for weeks, mainly in the cheek area. I recently found out that I have Perioral Dermatitis, and when I researched more, I found out that everything I could have been doing to create this skin condition, I was doing. Firstly, I worked at Lush Cosmetics- so I was always using creams, face masks, and face wash... Mind you, most of it is organic, but it was overkill. I am also on birth control, which has been known to create imbalance. I ate many sugary, starchy, and wheat-filled foods. I was on antibiotics for a UTI before my chin broke out. When I self-diagnosed my self three days ago, I was red, embarrased because I didn't want my boyfriend to see my face looking a mess, and nothing I put on it seemed to help. I found this site, and was overjoyed by the good reviews ACV had gotten. I had some in my cupboard, and have been using 2 Tablespoons in a little bit of water twice daily. So far, it has really dried out my chin, but the bumps are fading and the dryness tells me that it is beginning to heal. In combination with topical ACV, I have been taking 2 tbsp's in tea or water 2x daily. My rash is slowly healing, and the quality of my skin is improving. I have faith that this will cure my Perioral Dermatitis, but I think my body needs more time and change to heal completely. Wonderful site!!!"

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    [NAY]  12/16/2008: Erin from Washington, District of Colombia: "I unknowingly had perioral dermatitis in sporadic bouts for the last 5 years. The first time it was just a dry red patch on my chin in the winter during college - it went away on its own. The second time was 4 years later and it was awful, a full red 'goatee' of peeling redness that coincided with pneumonia and my doctor gave me topical ketaconazole 2% to treat it but never told me what it was. It went away within a week, I was so pleased!

    It came back this year, (3 years later) and I recognized the redness before it got really bad. The ACV remedy I found was a spray mixed with a few drops of lavendar essential oil for additional calming. the vinegar burned my face a lot and even after 10 days of using it the redness hadn't gone away, or changed at all. A pharmacist told me that if prescription ketaconazole worked once, I could try OTC miconazole 2%. You will recognize the brand name Monistat. It didn't have the same effect as the Keta, but it kept the skin moist and not icthy or peeling.

    Finally I went to a dermatologist who diagnosed the PD and said to throw out every cosmetic product I had, including my toothpaste, and to wash only with Dove Sensitive Skin (no fragrance or dyes), and find a toothpaste that does not have Tartar Control additives. I am on 3 months of Doxycycline which I am not thrilled about but he basically told me that if I don't get rid of the bacteria that is causing this, for good, the PD will come back again and again in closer and closer cycles until it is permanent.

    I'm also moisturizing with Neutrogena Sensitive Skin because besides having no fragrances and dyes, it's the only moisturizer i've found that doesn't have SPF which causes really bad breakouts on my face. I recently tried Dermalogica thinking it would be better but i got a dry patch on my chin almost the next day!

    I wish ACV had worked for me..."

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    [YEA]  11/13/2008: Emma from Lund, Sweden: "I am so happy I found this site! Like many of the other people who have left notes here, I am cured! I starting noticing a rash on my face the first week I moved to Sweden (no idea why, but I do fit the: 20's female, chances). After a few weeks, I starting researching what it could be and came to the conclusion that it was perioral dermatitis. I continued researching and realized that if I went to the doctors, they would likely give me antibiotics which I refuse to use unless there is no other option. So I continued on with this ugly rash on my rash on my face for a few more weeks, until I found this site!

    I bought organic apple cider vinegar the same day, and starting using it immediately. I applied it with a cotton ball to the rash twice a day (morning and before bed). I saw results immediately but it took until now, about 1 month later, for it to be about 95% gone (I think only I notice it now). For a few days in the middle I starting putting it on 4 times a day, but that was too much and irritated my skin. twice a day is good. Be aware that sometimes it does sting (and it does kind of stink), but not so much."

    Replies
    11/14/2008: Marion from Riverside, Ca replies: "I agree Apple Cider Vinegar does stink. Ugh, I don't like the smell at all but if it helps to clear my acne and "shrink" my pores then it's worth it. I'll give it a shot and see what it does for me."

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    [YEA]  11/10/2008: Amy from Chicagoland area, Illinois: "I think the acv is working! I have been using it for 3 days and it is clearing up! The bumps are gone, and the redness area is getting smaller. I also used a yougurt mask last night, it felt so good! I am also on Doxycycline, but I truly believe it is the acv. I am drinking it also 2 tbs in 8 oz of water 2 x's a day. Good idea about the straw and the teeth. My husband bought me the regular acv, not the organic. I am going to the store today to buy the organic. Now I have to battle the dryness. I am afraid to put a moisturizer on it, in case it gets bad again. They say to aviod the moisturizers. I might try the candula cream. Anyone have a treatment I can buy at a big box store? I don't want it to clog my pores. Has anyone heard anything about olive oil and perioral derm? I am so glad I found this site!"

    Replies
    11/09/2008: Amy from Chicago, IL replies: "Ugg! I am so confused. I have perioral dermititis. If I understand this right, it may be because of a fungus, so that is why the acv works. But, it encourages yeast? Am I understanding this correctly? Doesn't the doxycycline I am taking encourage yeast growth also? Am I going to be compleatly yeast invaded? So should I continue to eat and apply plain yougurt to my face. will this combat the yeast? Should I do anything else? I am drinking and applying the acv. Should I stop drinking it? I don't want a yeast infection."
    11/10/2008: Kelly from Nashville, TN replies: "I have been an Esthetician for the last 15 years. One of the first things we learned when I was in Esthetics school was that many times perioral dermatitis is be caused by using a toothpaste that contains flouride. I have seen this numerous times during my career. It's worth a try to change to a natural/no flouride toothpaste. Of couse, if you are super sensitive to flouride and your local water is flouridated that must be changed too."

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    10/30/2008: Princess78 from Crystal River, Florida: "I believe I have either Perioral Dermatitis or Contact Dermatitis it comes and goes for over a year now I want to try the Apple Cider Vinegar but no where does it say how much to put on my face do I mix it with anything? I don't wear make-up & wash my face with soap only I really want this to go away and can't afford a dermatologist right now. Can anyone tell me how much to put on my face do I mix the ACV with anything? I did put some on my face which made my face redder and burning not sure if that's a good sign or what lol. I don't have it bad kind of looks as if I have sunburn on my face I don't have pus bumps like many others talk about last year it started on my chin but now this time I have it on my chin my cheeks forehead and around my eyes. Please someone help me out with this thanks"

    Replies
    11/02/2008: Jessica from Duluth, MN replies: "To Princess78 re: perioral dermatitis...dip a cotton ball in ACV and swab it straight on your face twice per day. It will get red for several minutes after and may burn a bit, but that will go away. In addition you should drink two tablespoons of ACV in water or other beverage twice per day. You should see results in 1 to 6 weeks."
    11/21/2008: Jenna from Philadelphia, PA replies: "I use the cotton ball to apply straight ACV on the affected areas. The first time it did sting for 10-20 seconds. But 50x less painful than having a bikini wax LOL I kept my blow dryer handy on cool to dry off my face after i applied the ACV. It was red for a few minutes then toned down dramatically. That night it did not sting as bad and the next day it did not sting at all. I am still uneasy about drinking it yet. I will have to read more about it."

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    [YEA]  10/24/2008: Nan from Atlanta, GA: "ACV cured my dermatitis and is also healing my rosacea!

    I'm amazed at how amazing this $6 bottle of organic acv is. I would have never believed it if I hadn't experienced it for myself. I've had rosacea now since May which was a result of a major stress factor in my life. I've been to the dermatalogist and have spent over a hundred dollars in topical creams and pills that just did not work. I then learned that the creams I was given for the rosacea was causing dermatitis so I was again given another cream to try and combat the dermatitis to no avail.

    When the dermatologist failed to help me, I went to an esthetician. She put me on supplements stating that it was more likely an internal digestive problem. This actually made it worse. Whereas before the supplements I had the rosacea & dermatitis only on my cheeks, after taking the supplements it immediately spread to my whole face which freaked me out.

    I then did a google and somehow found th Earth Clinic website with remedies and saw a few testimonials concerning dermatitis. I thought to myself, I'm desperate and what harm can it do in trying (as I've done about everything else short of doing laser treatments) to try and take care of this. I was even going out without makeup as the dermatitis caused my make up to look cakey and blothcy. On my way home from work on October 17th I stopped at a nutrition store and bought my $6 bottle of ACV. I washed my face and applied the ACV directly to my face with a cotton ball. Saturday it started looking better. I've applied it in the morning and at night after washing my face and follow with my moisturizer and a week later the dermatitis is completely gone and so is most of the rosacea. I also put 2 TBS in a 16 oz bottle of water each day.

    I am now a firm believer in ACV!!"

    Replies
    10/29/2008: Susan from NY replies: "I'm a first timer here but this question is to Nan hopefully I'm doing this right....

    I have Perioral Dermatitis which first started about 7-years ago. My chin broke out in these huge lumps and they hurt and itched like crazy. They lasted about three months and then just disappeared. Two years later I started my first job in a very dirty factory and the bumps came back smaller and in a very exact rash pattern. After about a month it felt like someone had punched me in the face it hurt so bad. I couldn't sleep at night from the throbbing. So instead of sleeping, I spent hours online trying to figure out what it could be and finally I found pictures of PD and I instantly knew. I immediately switched to all natural products, everything. It went away for about a month. I just recently moved and it is back and worse. This time it's on my chin, up to my nose and spreading to my cheeks. I have been on lockdown since I look like a mutant.

    I found this page last night and thought I have to get some ACV, however that requires leaving the house! Well I have it now! I just applied it for the first time a few moments ago, so far no itching which is a relief. I will update in a few weeks as to whether it worked for me.

    Hmmmm...ok I see that you can't ask about product recommendations. So I'll ask do you think it's too much to use face wash, toner and moisturizer? I'm concerned about using too many products at once. I was also curious as to whether anyone here uses fluoride? I don't use any SLS, but I have been reading mixed reactions to fluoride. Another thing that I have noticed is that (I have been reading a lot of different boards online) PD sufferers seem to have sinus problems. Which I find coincidental because I have serious sinus problems, which started around the same time as the PD. Does anyone else here have sinus issues? If anyone else wants to answer these questions that would be lovely, I appreciate anyone's input."
    11/03/2008: Marian from New York, NY replies: "Hey Nan & Susan, I have had perioral dermatitis for a month now - it started right after I had the first of a 6 series gycolic acid peel at my dermatologist's. The line of the rash is the nasolabial fold from nose to mouth. The doctor said that there is no connection to the peel but I think there is. I have had other peels previously but never had a reaction like this! I bought the ACV yesterday -it burns, but I will keep trying it for at least a week. After the ACV I use either Psoriflora Homeopathic ointment or Aloe Vera gel. Any more suggestions? Should I try plain yogurt on my face too? Regular or Nonfat?
    Thanks!"
    11/17/2008: Nan from Atlanta, GA replies: "Susan- I am not using my normal moisturizer or toner. The esthetician recommended and sold me a cleanser and a moisturizer which seems to be helping as well as the ACV. She did recommend a sunblock moisturizer which actually seemed to make it worse so I'm not using the sunblock. The moisturizer is a Neova product. I am also using a perfect finish toner from Neova that you spray on your face before the moisturizer to give added hydration. I spray this on throughout the day if I feel my face is getting dry."
    11/26/2008: Susan from From New York, to Virginia replies: "Marian: Sorry for the delay in response. I just now came back to this site. I honestly believe that PD is a result of using harsh face products over the years. I had always been a product whore, you name it I've tried it. I had spent so much money buying and trying products not because I needed them at the time but because I loved trying new things that were on the market. At one time I actually got paid to try products and give my opinion. Now that's not me, my face can't handle it.

    Keep in mind that everyone's skin is different even the one's with PD. My skin can't handle any SLS whether it's a shampoo or hand wash, it doesn't matter I can't use it. I'll tell you what I use but that doesn't mean it will work best for you. It took me 7-years to figure out what works for me. I use Dr. Bronner's Baby Mild Liquid Soap to wash my face with. I can't use toners because I have an adverse reaction. I use California Baby Calendula Cream on my face; you can use it all over it will not irritate the skin. On occasion if my PD is a little dry I use Karite Gold Shea Butter for PD, a little goes a long way, one tub will last two years (keep that in mind- good for dry skin). Balmex Diaper Cream is also nice on PD.

    Apple Cider Vinegar organic undistilled works best for me because I have a lot of natural oils in my face, and ACV is more drying then the other options. I never put it on in excess or rub the skin vigorously. ACV is natural however it does have side effects. If it burns on your skin you should water it down. Anytime the skin is burning it's telling you it's too much. I only put it on in the morning and at night just a dab with a q-tip. If you plan on ingesting it remember there are side effects. ACV is known to wear enamel off of teeth and if ingested on a regular basis it is known to cause esophagus problems. I only ingest it if I'm having a serious outbreak of PD, one tabl. with apple juice and honey. Don't chug it, drink slowly, and use a straw to keep it off the teeth. Never sacrifice your overall health for your skin, be smart and don't let PD run your life!

    If you have any questions let me know I will try and come back here regularly. In regards to yogurt and the other things you mentioned I have never used them so I can't give you an opinion. I can say that I know some people who use grapefruit seed extract (5-drops in water as well as on the face morning and night) and it has worked for them.

    I just moved from NY if I was still there we could talk about this over tea :) Anyways Best of luck!"
    07/29/2009: Jonna from Stuart, FL replies: "While reading comments, I came across a potential irritant. A few people have written that they can't use SLS, and I'm wondering what they are referring to."

    EC: SLS = Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (an ingredient found in most shampoos, soaps, and toothpastes).

    09/14/2009: Shaz from Melbourne, Victoria, Australia replies: "To Susan from NY- I suffer from POD and from sinus problems so I was very interested to hear that their may be a link between the two problems. I am going to try the ACV on my face first and then see if I can bear to drink it and see if it helps with the sinus problems too."
    11/02/2011: Kitty from Melbourne, Australia replies: "My first post here - hope this goes ok. It would seem that I've had PD for quite some time, like years and no doctor was able to tell me what it was! I've had several severe breakouts of it and went to my doctor each time but he wasn't able to help. I've seen dermatologists and skin specialists too - and finally I started researching and realised it was dermatitis! And yes I've had sinus problems all along too! I even once asked my doctor if I needed to have surgery on my sinuses! I take Iodine but if I run out or forget to take it I seem to get bad flare-ups of dermatitis and my sinuses get worse.

    I've used ACV in the past internally and externally and I will just remind people that find that it burns or gives them a rash or the like that you do need to dilute it!

    One of the biggest problems I've had for years is washing my face! It would leave my face a red, painful, irritated, peeling and burning mess! The water here in Melbourne is heavily chlorinated and fluoridated (thank-you water company that must be in cahoots with the dermatologists! ) and it drives my skin insane! I've had some success putting a water filter on my bathroom basin and only washing my face with that. But my body is driven crazy with itching from showering in the stuff!"

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    [YEA]  10/14/2008: J from New York: "I am so grateful for this site. I was experiencing perioral dermatitis after taking antibiotics for a UTI two months ago. I tried what feels like everything to get rid of it-reducing sugars and alcohol, washing linens in hot water, sunlight, etc.

    For the past five days I have been taking ACV, coconut oil and balmex topically and internally (ACV and Coconut 1 TBSP daily). I was ready to give up on ACV as my dermatitis got WORSE before it got better (Herx reaction?), but after 3-4 days of taking ACV my face looked much better. My theory is that the antibiotics created an acidic environment thus causing dermatitis/yeast to grow on my face. (Plus, I'm a sugar addict.) Other ailments have cleared up already too, such as a sinus infection and bladder irregularities.

    I am so relieved and grateful...thank you to all who have written as your advice and testimonials have ultimately brought my smile back :)"

    Replies
    10/14/2008: Christine from Clearwater, Florida replies: "Thank you so much for your post! I am experiencing the same thing - I am on my second day of taking ACV and wasn't sure if I was getting worse or not (my face is kind of red, but at least it's scabbing and not oozing - so I figured that this was an "improvement").

    This is reassuring and I'll keep on it! I found that the coconut oil made the symptoms a bit worse (more red and irritated), but I never thought about ingesting it. I can give that a shot too :)

    Thanks again!"
    05/11/2012: Missmer from Bloomington, Indiana, Usa replies: "I tried everything, from coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, antibiotics to candex to try and get rid of my perioral dermatitis. I spent hundreds of dollars trying to figure out a natural way to get rid of this awful stuff! I rarely tried one thing at a time because you start getting desperate and begin using several different treatments at once, thereby not really knowing what is working and what isn't. So I stopped doing anything. I bought Nutragena T-Gel with zinc, California Baby calendula body wash/cream and washed my hair with the Nutragena, and used the california baby products on my face. Within two days my perioral dermatitis was lightening and going away. I thought it was crazy that I had spent all this money on stuff only to find out that it's a kind of dandruff on your face. I don't have dandruff in my hair so I never used dandruff shampoo. I did use a little shampoo on my face the first couple days to really wash it good with zinc.

    Get some head and shoulders or Nutragena t-gel and use it, I have never had it disappear so quickly! I'm sure it will reappear if I stop using it!! Simple relief!!"

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