Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes red, inflamed patches around the mouth, nose, and eyes. It can be both frustrating and painful, often leading to self-consciousness and discomfort. While the condition is commonly associated with factors like hormonal changes, stress, or underlying skin conditions, one often-overlooked culprit could be right in your bathroom: your toothpaste.
At Monkey + Moon, we understand how personal and challenging it can be to deal with perioral dermatitis. Our founder, Maxime Renfrew, has personally experienced the struggles of living with severe contact dermatitis for over ten years. Alongside his mother, a qualified NHS dentist with 35 years of experience, they decided to create a solution that directly addresses the root cause of dermatitis flare-ups triggered by toothpaste ingredients.
In this article, we’re going to explore the link between perioral dermatitis and toothpaste ingredients and why it's crucial to rethink what goes into our daily oral care products.
What Is Perioral Dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a form of facial eczema, often presenting as red, bumpy, and sometimes itchy skin around the mouth. It can be mistaken for acne or rosacea but is, in fact, a separate condition that tends to be triggered by irritants or allergens. This is where toothpaste comes into play.
Many of us are unaware that the toothpaste we use daily can have a direct impact on skin health. The ingredients that help make our toothpaste more effective at cleaning, whitening, and freshening breath are often the same ones that can cause skin reactions, particularly in people with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies.
Here’s a breakdown of the common toothpaste ingredients that may contribute to perioral dermatitis flare-ups:
1. Preservatives
Toothpaste often contains preservatives to extend shelf life, but some of these preservatives - like parabens - are known to irritate the skin. Parabens can mimic hormones in the body and disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, making it more vulnerable to irritation and allergic reactions.
2. Fragrance
While toothpaste manufacturers often add fragrance to improve the smell and taste of their products, the synthetic fragrances used can be a source of irritation for sensitive individuals. Fragrances are made up of various chemicals, many of which are common allergens. Even if you don’t feel an immediate reaction, prolonged exposure can trigger skin flare-ups over time.
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant used to create the foaming effect in many personal care products, including toothpaste. While it helps to break down oils and remove debris from the teeth, it is also a known irritant to the skin. For those with perioral dermatitis, the presence of SLS in toothpaste can aggravate the skin around the mouth and contribute to flare-ups.
4. Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial agent commonly added to toothpaste to help prevent plaque and gingivitis. While it has benefits in oral care, it can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals. Long-term exposure to triclosan may weaken the skin’s natural defences and increase sensitivity to other allergens, potentially triggering perioral dermatitis.
5. Foaming Agents
Many toothpastes contain foaming agents that help the product spread and clean the teeth more effectively. However, some of these ingredients can strip the skin of natural oils, leaving it vulnerable to irritation and allergic reactions, especially in those prone to contact dermatitis.
The reality is that 95% of toothpaste brands on the market contain ingredients that are harmful to those with sensitive skin, such as harsh chemicals, fragrances, preservatives, and other irritants. In fact, most toothpastes are classified as cosmetics, which means they fall under much looser regulatory standards compared to food products. The unregulated nature of these products allows companies to add cheap, synthetic ingredients that can cause harm to sensitive consumers—without ever labelling them as allergens.
Many brands advertise themselves as "natural" or "chemical-free," but even some of these alternatives still contain problematic ingredients like fragrances or preservatives. This creates a false sense of security for consumers who think they are making safer choices.
At Monkey + Moon, we are proud to offer the first truly dermatitis-aware toothpaste in the UK. We recognise that many people living with perioral dermatitis and other contact allergies have few options when it comes to safe, effective toothpaste.
Our formulas are 100% free from preservatives, fragrance, and foaming agents, which are the main culprits behind many dermatitis flare-ups. Instead, we use a gentle, mineral-based formula that not only cleans teeth but also helps prevent further irritation. Our toothpaste is designed with allergy sufferers in mind, prioritising both safety and effectiveness.
Additionally, we focus on holistic mouth care, addressing overall oral health through natural ingredients and a sustainable, plastic-free packaging system. Our products are ideal for people who want to avoid irritating chemicals and make a positive environmental impact.
If you suffer from perioral dermatitis or other skin sensitivities, it’s essential to read the ingredient lists on your toothpaste carefully. Look for products that avoid harsh chemicals, preservatives, fragrances, and foaming agents. Opt for brands like Monkey + Moon that are designed specifically for sensitive skin and allergy sufferers.
By choosing a dermatitis-aware toothpaste, you can reduce the risk of triggering allergic reactions and maintain healthier, happier skin.
Comments