The Hidden Culprit Behind My Mouth Flares
Have you ever experienced stubborn skin irritation around your mouth that just wouldn’t go away? For years, I dealt with constant redness, dryness, and flares around my lips and chin. It felt like no matter what I did, nothing improved, I was at a complete loss. I blamed my skincare products, food sensitivities, even the shower water, but little did I know the problem was hiding in plain sight: my toothpaste.
The Connection Between Toothpaste and Skin Irritation
Many traditional toothpastes contain ingredients that can be harsh on sensitive skin, especially for people prone to eczema, topical steroid withdrawal (TSW), or other skin conditions. Common culprits include Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and fluoride, both of which can irritate the skin and trigger contact dermatitis. SLS is a foaming agent commonly used in toothpaste to create that bubbly lather, but it’s also a known irritant that can strip your skin's natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to inflammation.
For me, it was a constant cycle of flares. After brushing my teeth, I’d notice the skin around my mouth becoming tight, itchy, and red. At first, I didn’t connect the dots after all, toothpaste is meant to clean your teeth, right? But after ruling out other causes and digging deeper into the ingredients list, I realized that my toothpaste could be to blame.
My Journey to Finding the Right Toothpaste
Switching to a toothpaste free from SLS and fluoride was a game changer for me. I made the leap to natural, skin friendly toothpaste options, and within weeks, I noticed a dramatic improvement in my skin. The persistent flares started to subside, and for the first time in years, I felt like I was finally in control of my skin’s health.
Today, my mouth flares are a thing of the past, and I owe it to the simple act of switching my toothpaste. I’ve even shared some photos to show the difference: from irritated, peeling patches around my mouth to smooth, calm skin that finally feels like my own again.
Healthy Toothpaste Options to Consider
If you’ve been struggling with skin irritation around your mouth, here are some SLS- and fluoride-free toothpaste options that might work for you:
- Biomed Superwhite Complete Care Natural Toothpaste – Made with gentle ingredients like coconut oil and natural minerals, this toothpaste is perfect for sensitive skin.
- Jason Powersmile Pepermint Fresh Breath Toothpaste – Free from fluoride, gluten & artificial sweeteners. Certified vegetarian, vegan, cruelty-free & paraben and phthalate-free. Earth-friendly & biodegradable formulation.
- Kingfisher Natural Toothpaste – A trusted brand offering gentle toothpaste made with natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals.
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Monkey and Moon Toothpaste - Support healthy teeth and gums with minerals, removes tough stains and polishes teeth.
Why This Matters
Your skincare routine doesn’t just stop at what you apply to your face it extends to everything you use daily, including toothpaste. If you’re dealing with unexplained irritation or flares, consider taking a closer look at the ingredients in your toothpaste. You might find, as I did, that the solution to your problem is simpler than you think.
A Final Note
Living with skin conditions like eczema or TSW can feel isolating and frustrating, but small changes can lead to big results. By eliminating irritants like SLS and fluoride from your toothpaste, you can take another step toward healthier, happier skin.
Have you experienced a similar journey with your skin? Share your story in the comments or tag us on social media we’d love to hear how you’ve taken control of your skin health! And if you’ve been considering making the switch, trust me: your skin will thank you.
We have a special discount code for Monkey and Moon oral care if you Use the code DERMA40 for a limited amount of time.
