Acne Near the Mouth
Those who have suffered from acne for quite some time know how frustrating it is to constantly have to deal with breakouts in the same area. The excitement of a cured blemish is shattered as you feel an upcoming lesion in the same area. It’s not always easy to pinpoint the source of eruptions in certain areas. In some cases, hormones are to blame. Women, for instance, often experience chin acne during their menstrual cycle. However, there are recurring bouts of acne that seem to occur without explanation. One of these perplexing breakouts occurs around the mouth. Touching the area with dirty hands often appears to be the first culprit. Even foods are suspected of causing these pimples.
When all these factors are ruled out, people find themselves stuck in a constant cycle of torture. The one culprit that often escapes unnoticed is toothpaste. We use toothpaste in such routine activities that it seems highly unlikely that it could be to blame. However, scientific studies have backed the fact that the flouride and sodium lauryl sulfate contained in toothpaste can cause skin irritation, and eventually breakouts.
The first offender, fluoride, is used to strengthen tooth enamel in order to prevent cavities. It causes an acne-like eruption known as perioral dermatitis. While some sufferers respond to conventional acne treatments, most find relief when they completely eliminate fluoride from their routine. The risks involved in doing so are debatable and best discussed with your oral care provider.
Sodium lauryl sulfate is the next offender. You will find this additive in soaps and other products, but in the case of toothpaste, it is intended to create a foam when combined with water. Testing has indicated that skin and eye irritation may occur from prolonged exposure to this chemical. If SLS is causing your acne problems, an SLS-free toothpaste may be your key to clear skin.