March 06, 2025

Understanding POD Perioral Dermatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Natural Treatments

Perioral Dermatitis (POD) is a common yet often misunderstood skin condition that can be frustrating to manage. If you’ve noticed persistent redness, bumps, or irritation around your mouth, nose, or eyes, you might be dealing with POD. As a natural skincare brand, we believe in treating skin concerns gently and effectively. Here’s everything you need to know about POD, from its causes to the best ingredients for healing.

What is POD - Perioral Dermatitis?

Perioral Dermatitis, shortly POD, is an inflammatory skin condition that appears as a red, bumpy rash around the mouth, nose, or eyes. It’s often mistaken for acne or eczema but requires a different approach to treatment.

What Does POD Look Like?

POD typically presents as:

  • Small red or pink bumps around the mouth, nostrils, or even the eyes (periocular dermatitis)
  • Burning, stinging, or itching sensations
  • Dry, flaky, or scaly skin
  • A rash that may worsen with topical steroids or heavy creams

What Causes POD?

The exact cause of POD isn’t fully understood, but several triggers have been identified:

Topical Steroid Use: Overuse of steroid creams (even prescription ones) can trigger or worsen POD.

Heavy Skincare Products: Thick, occlusive creams and oils can trap bacteria and irritants, leading to flare-ups.

Fluoride Toothpaste: Some studies suggest that fluoride may contribute to POD.

Hormonal Imbalance: Fluctuations in hormones, especially in women, can trigger POD.

Harsh Ingredients: Sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances are known to aggravate the condition.

Gut Health & Diet: Certain foods, particularly processed sugars, dairy, and spicy foods, might contribute to flare-ups.

Environmental Factors: Heat, humidity, and excessive exposure to wind or sun can trigger symptoms.

How to Treat POD Naturally

While conventional treatments may include antibiotics or prescription creams, many people prefer a gentle, holistic approach. Here are some natural ways to heal POD:

Ingredients to Avoid:

To prevent further irritation, steer clear of these ingredients:

  • Steroid Creams: While they may initially reduce redness, they often worsen the condition over time.
  • Petroleum-Based Products: These can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing.
  • Synthetic Fragrances & Dyes: These are common irritants for sensitive skin.
  • Sulfates (SLS & SLES): Found in foaming cleansers and toothpaste, sulfates can strip the skin and trigger POD.
  • Silicones & Mineral Oils: These create a barrier on the skin, which can trap bacteria and exacerbate symptoms.

Ingredients & Products That Help:

Opt for gentle, soothing ingredients that promote healing, such as:

  • Aloe Vera: Known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Manuka Honey: Antibacterial and deeply healing for the skin.
  • Forest Humus: Rich in natural minerals and beneficial microbes that support skin regeneration.
  • Birch Sap: Hydrates and nourishes the skin while reducing inflammation.
  • Oat Oil: Known for its soothing and barrier-repairing properties, ideal for sensitive skin.
  • Sea Buckthorn: Packed with vitamins and omega fatty acids that promote healing and reduce redness.
  • Lingonberry Seed Oil: A powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the skin and combat inflammation.
  • Calendula Extract: A gentle herb that soothes irritation and reduces redness.
  • Chamomile & Green Tea Extract: Both are rich in antioxidants and help calm inflammation.
  • Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Supports the skin barrier and reduces redness.
  • Probiotics (Topical & Oral): Support gut health, which is linked to skin health.
  • Zinc-Based Sunscreens: Protects sensitive skin from further irritation caused by the sun.

Lifestyle and Skincare Routine Tips

Simplify Your Routine: Stick to gentle, minimal skincare—cleanser, lightweight moisturizer, and sunscreen.

  • Use a Gentle Cleanser: Avoid harsh foaming cleansers; instead, opt for a sulfate-free Nourishing cleanser.
  • Hydrate & Nourish Your Skin: Use light, non-comedogenic moisturizers with soothing ingredients.
  • Use calming face oil: use face oil that soothe sensitive skin conditions such as redness and inflammation.
  • Avoid Touching or Scrubbing: POD-prone skin is highly sensitive and doesn’t respond well to physical exfoliation.
  • Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Reduce processed foods and add more omega-3-rich foods like flaxseeds, salmon, and walnuts.
  • Switch to Fluoride-Free Toothpaste: Some people see significant improvement when they eliminate fluoride.
  • Reduce Stress: Stress management techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can improve overall skin health.

Final Thoughts

Perioral Dermatitis POD can be persistent, but with the right skincare routine and lifestyle changes, you can heal your skin naturally. Avoid harsh ingredients, embrace soothing botanicals, and be patient with your skin as it recovers. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a dermatologist for further guidance.

At Henua, we prioritize skin health with gentle, natural formulations that nourish and restore balance. Browse our collection for POD-friendly skincare products that promote healing and calm irritation naturally.