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I was diagnosed with perioral dermatitis (PD) after going through topical steroid withdrawal. If you’ve dealt with PD, you know how frustrating (and honestly, confusing) it can be. Is it your diet, your environment, stress, or hormones? The guessing game of figuring out the triggers is SO exhausting. I’ve been on a healing journey ever since, and thanks to my amazing dermatologist, I’m now completely PD-free. While everyone’s skin is different, I quickly learned that small changes can make a big difference. One of the easiest swaps? Toothpaste.
Fluoride, SLS, and even certain essential oils can be triggers for some people with perioral dermatitis, so switching to a gentle, PD-friendly toothpaste is a simple swap that may help with flare-ups. If you're looking for one that won’t make things worse, I’ve rounded up the best perioral dermatitis toothpastes that are free of common irritants and the last option is the one I love and use myself.
P.S. If you’re curious about exactly how I cleared my perioral dermatitis, drop a comment below! I can send you an email with all the details or maybe even write a full blog post on my journey.
Short answer
Best budget pick: Jason Simply Coconut Strengthening Fluoride-Free Toothpaste ($7). It's the one I used when my PD was really flaring up, and my esthetician recommended it too.
Best dermatologist pick: Tom's of Maine Fluoride Free Children's Toothpaste ($12). It's fluoride-free and SLS-free, and my dermatologist recommended it when I had severe PD.
Best hydroxyapatite pick: RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste ($18). It uses hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride and is free of SLS and artificial flavors.
My Favorite Perioral Dermatitis Toothpaste
My Personal Journey with Perioral Dermatitis
How I Cleared My Perioral Dermatitis
What Is Perioral Dermatitis?
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Perioral dermatitis toothpastes at a glance
| Toothpaste | Price | Fluoride-free | SLS-free | Key feature | Flavor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Tom's of Maine Fluoride Free Children's Toothpaste (Strawberry) | $12 | Yes | Yes | - | Strawberry |
| 2. RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste | $18 | Yes | Yes | Hydroxyapatite | Not super strong |
| 3. Davids Hydroxi Nano Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste | $11 | Yes | Yes | Nano-hydroxyapatite, aluminum tube | Peppermint, charcoal or herbal citrus mint |
| 4. Happy Tooth Hydroxyapatite SLS Free Toothpaste | $10 | Yes | Yes | Hydroxyapatite | Orange citrus |
| 5. NOBS (No Bad Stuff) Toothpaste Tablets | $19 | Yes | Yes | Chewable tablets | - |
| 6. Boka Fluoride Free Nano Hydroxyapatite Toothpaste | $12 | Yes | Yes | Nano-hydroxyapatite | Coco ginger |
| 7. Jason Simply Coconut Strengthening Fluoride-Free Toothpaste | $7 | Yes | - | - | Coconut mint |
Prices are the shop buttons below. A dash means the pick doesn't say, so check the label.
I came across Tom's Kids Strawberry Toothpaste on Reddit, where someone with severe perioral dermatitis said they had tried everything, and this was the only toothpaste that helped them. It’s fluoride-free, SLS-free, and non-toxic, making it a super gentle option for anyone looking to avoid common triggers. Plus, the strawberry flavor doesn't give you that harsh mint flavor. If you’re struggling with PD and haven’t looked into your toothpaste, this definitely might be worth a try!
P.S this is also one of the toothpastes that my dermatologist in Beverly Hills, CA recommended when I had severe perioral dermatitis. The only drawback is that it made my teeth a bit dull/yellow after using for a while, so I would not recommend using it for more than 2-3 months!
I first came across RiseWell Mineral Toothpaste through a TikTok recommendation, and after looking into it, I had to give it a try. Unlike traditional toothpastes that have fluoride in it, this one uses hydroxyapatite. I didn't know what that was until I researched it and it's basically a naturally occurring mineral that's said to help strengthen enamel and remineralize your teeth. It’s also completely free of SLS, artificial flavors, and other potential irritants, making it a great option for your perioral dermatitis or sensitive skin.
After using it for a while, I can confidently say that it feels just as effective as traditional toothpaste, but without the harsh ingredients. The texture is smooth, it foams up just enough, and the taste is not super strong. The only potential downside is that I found it to be more pricey than other options. But if you’re looking for a non-toxic, skin-friendly toothpaste that actually supports oral health, I think it’s worth giving a shot.
Related: Check out my favorite non-toxic candles for the house
I first found out about Davids Toothpaste after I immersed myself in the clean beauty world. People kept talking about how good it was because of the ingredients, the aluminum packaging, and the fact that it’s fluoride-free. I’ve been trying to cut out anything that could trigger my perioral dermatitis, so I figured I’d try it.
What I liked about it:
No fluoride or SLS: This was the main reason I tried it. SLS can be irritating and is a common trigger for PD.
Uses nano-hydroxyapatite instead of fluoride: It's meant to strengthen your teeth, which I love since that is what fluoride is supposed to do.
Super clean ingredients: No weird fillers or fake sweeteners.
Tastes good: I went with the peppermint and it’s fresh without that minty burn. They also make a charcoal version and a herbal citrus mint one if you want something different.
Sustainable packaging: The tube is aluminum and comes with a little key so you can squeeze out every last drop.
What I didn’t love:
The texture is different: It’s thicker and doesn’t foam up like regular toothpaste. Not a big deal, but it took a few uses to get used to.
It’s not cheap: Around $10 - $12 per tube. Definitely more than drugstore brands, but the ingredients are better and it lasts a while.
Doesn’t give that intense “clean” feeling: Since it doesn’t foam, it might not feel as effective but based on my own personal experience it is.
My final thoughts on this toothpaste: If you’re looking for a clean, fluoride-free toothpaste that's meant to strengthen your teeth, Davids is worth checking out. The formula is one of the cleanest I’ve seen, and the enamel support is a huge bonus. It’s more expensive than most, but if ingredients matter to you, I think it’s worth the splurge.
Related: check out my favorite face wash for perioral dermatitis
Happy Toothpaste in Orange Citrus is a great fluoride-free, SLS-free option for anyone who struggles with perioral dermatitis. This was very gentle on my sensitive skin, non-toxic, and free from artificial flavors and preservatives. It has this mild, refreshing citrus flavor that was non-irritating, and the formula is clean. Definitely a solid choice if you want something super gentle.
20,000 people purchased these in one month! No BS Toothpaste Tablets are a game-changer, especially for those with perioral dermatitis. These tablets are SLS-free, fluoride-free, and have minimal ingredients, making them a great option for sensitive skin. They’re super easy to use, you just pop a tablet in your mouth, chew it, and brush. They don’t foam like traditional toothpaste, but they still get the job done without irritating sensitive skin. Definitely a solid choice for anyone looking for a clean, simple option!
Boka’s toothpaste is a standout for perioral dermatitis because it’s fluoride-free, SLS-free, and made with clean ingredients. Plus, it’s non-toxic, so it's perfect for anyone looking for a gentle option that still works. My personal favorite flavor is Coco Ginger. It was very refreshing without being overpowering in my mouth which helped soothe my PD. It’s also kid-friendly, which is a bonus if you’re trying to keep the whole family on the same page with their oral care. If you're looking for a soothing, effective toothpaste, Boka is definitely worth trying.
Related: Check out my favorite cream for perioral dermatitis to repair your skin barrier.
Jason's Toothpaste was the toothpaste I used when my perioral dermatitis was really flaring up, and it helped a lot. It was recommended by my esthetician as well. It has a mild coconut mint flavor, which was refreshing but not too overpowering, and it felt like it was really cleaning my teeth without triggering my perioral dermatitis. I also love how affordable it is at just $7 a tube.
The only downside I found was that, over time, it made my teeth a bit sensitive. But if you're looking for a budget-friendly option that’s gentle on your PD (especially if you're at the peak of it) and effective for your teeth, Jason’s is definitely worth considering.
Related: Check out my holy grail moisturizer for perioral dermatitis.
Dealing with perioral dermatitis (PD) was hands down one of the most mentally draining and frustrating experiences I’ve ever gone through. Not only did it look terrible, but it also burned and itched constantly. It seriously took a toll on my confidence. I battled it on and off for almost 9 months before I was finally able to get it under control, with the help of a PA, not even a dermatologist!
It all started when I was prescribed a topical steroid for a random rash that appeared on my cheeks. Within days, the rash disappeared and my skin looked great - even better than before, honestly. But about three months later, the PD kicked in. And once it started, it just kept flaring up, getting worse and more stubborn over time.
I went down every rabbit hole you could imagine. I read hours of Reddit threads and tried every “natural remedy” under the sun: beef tallow, clean beauty products, azelaic acid, niacinamide, Korean skincare, even a whole skincare line supposedly formulated for PD (which made everything worse, by the way). I visited two different dermatologists who prescribed creams that would calm things down temporarily, only for the flare-ups to come back worse once I stopped using them. One dermatologist even suggested a steroid shot in the butt, and that was when I told myself this dermatologist was NOT FOR ME.
It wasn’t until I saw a PA (physician assistant) that I finally made progress. Ironically, she prescribed a topical steroid too, but only for 2-3 days to calm down the INTENSE flare I was having. I was super hesitant, given that steroids were what triggered this mess in the first place, but she seemed so confident that I decided to give it one last shot. I honestly had nothing to lose at that point.
After using the steroid briefly, she had me switch to prescription-strength azelaic acid, Avene Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream, prescription grade sulfur wash (1-2x week), and a basic Cetaphil face wash. That was it. No 10-step skincare routine, no fancy serums. Within a month, I noticed a HUGE improvement. Less redness, less burning, and my skin didn’t feel as tight or inflamed.
Eventually, she had me stop the azelaic acid and stick to a super simple routine:
Morning - Wash with Cetaphil face wash, moisturize with Avene Tolerance Cream, and apply Elta MD UV Clear sunscreen.
Night - Wash again with Cetaphil, then moisturize with Avene Cicalfate.
She also advised me to avoid alcohol, sugar, and other inflammatory foods (dairy was okay!), and to stay out of the sun while healing.
After about 2 - 3 months, my skin completely cleared up. Honestly, it looked even better than it did before PD. Since then, I’ve kept my routine minimal and it’s made a world of difference. These days, I stick to Avene products, Elta MD sunscreen, and occasionally use a sulfur wash if I feel a flare coming on. I also am very aware of when I get close to my period - I stay away from alcohol and too much caffeine as I notice my skin is more sensitive.
Looking back, the most important part of healing was finding someone who actually listened and didn’t just throw prescriptions at me. If I had found the right person sooner, I could’ve saved myself months of frustration and tears. PD is so misunderstood and it’s different for everyone but keeping things simple and consistent was ultimately what worked for me.
Perioral dermatitis is a skin condition that causes red, inflamed bumps around the mouth and sometimes the eyes or nose. It can be triggered by various factors, including certain ingredients in toothpaste, like fluoride or SLS. These ingredients can irritate the skin, causing flare-ups. Some people also link PD to inflammation in the body or low levels of certain nutrients. I started taking a combination of vitamin D, fish oil, zinc, iron, and a multivitamin to ensure my body was getting the nutrients it needed and rule out any deficiencies.
Using gentle, non-irritating toothpaste may help reduce symptoms by cutting out potential triggers while your skin heals.
If your symptoms don't clear up or keep coming back, see a dermatologist before changing your routine or starting supplements.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a common ingredient in toothpaste, but it can irritate the skin and worsen perioral dermatitis. SLS can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and inflammation, which can trigger flare-ups. Choosing SLS-free toothpaste helps avoid this irritation, keeping your skin calm and supporting your healing process.
When you're dealing with perioral dermatitis, the last thing you need is a pricey toothpaste that irritates your skin more than it helps. Thankfully, there are affordable options out there that are gentle on your skin and get the job done (my favorite is the Jason's Toothpaste).
From fluoride-free to SLS-free formulas, you can find a toothpaste that won’t break the bank or make your face break out in frustration. Plus, saving money means you can splurge on some skincare or a cute new lip balm to go with your fresh, PD-free smile!
Look for a toothpaste without fluoride or SLS, since both can irritate the skin around your mouth. My dermatologist recommended Tom's of Maine Fluoride Free Children's Toothpaste ($12), and Jason Simply Coconut ($7) is the one I used when my PD was really flaring up. If your PD doesn't calm down, see a dermatologist.
All 7 picks on this list are fluoride-free. If you want something in place of fluoride, Davids Hydroxi ($11) and Boka ($12) use nano-hydroxyapatite and RiseWell ($18) uses hydroxyapatite. All three are SLS-free too.
Happy Tooth in Orange Citrus ($10) was very gentle on my sensitive skin, and it's free from artificial flavors and preservatives. NOBS Toothpaste Tablets ($19) are another option with minimal ingredients, and they're SLS-free and fluoride-free.
Kaylin Malek Khorsandi
Hi, I’m Kaylin. I’ve spent years researching, testing, and comparing products to find the ones that actually live up to their promise. What started as my personal habit of hunting for the best quality at a fair price has grown into a trusted space where thousands of readers come to make smarter shopping decisions. Every recommendation is based on real use, detailed research, and honest feedback, so you can feel confident that what you’re buying is genuinely worth it. My goal is to help you save time, money, and stress by sharing products that last and truly add value to your life.
Comments
Any tips on fixing this PD would be great! I was just diagnosed after a month of a face rash I couldn’t get rid of. I have excema and have regularly used topical steroids around my chapped lips and cheeks.
Merci pour cet article qui va m’être bien utile pour guérir de ma Dermatite péri orale dont je n’arrive pas à guérir depuis presque 2 ans et demie maintenant merci +
Thank you for sharing your story , I’ve been dealing with PD for 9 months now without much improvement despite trying all kinds of prescription ointments. If you have a moment to reach back to me , I’d appreciate it .
Hey! I’d love to hear more about how you got did of your PD! I’ve been struggling with it for months and can’t figure out how to get rid of it and don’t necessarily want to go on topical medication. Thank you!!
