Using Tea Tree Oil to Treat Perioral Dermatitis Naturally

Using Tea Tree Oil to Treat Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis is a common inflammatory facial rash that occurs around the mouth. The bumpy red rash can be both uncomfortable and unsightly. While doctors may prescribe antibiotics or steroid creams, some people turn to natural remedies like tea tree oil to relieve their symptoms. Research suggests tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help combat perioral dermatitis flare-ups. However, it still requires caution and care when using.

Understanding Perioral Dermatitis

Perioral dermatitis causes a bumpy red rash to develop around the mouth, nasal folds and sometimes eyes. Symptoms include:

• Small red bumps or pimples around mouth and nose
• Itching, stinging or burning sensation
• Slight peeling or flaking skin
• Occasional pus-filled bumps
• Mild scarring in severe cases

While the exact cause is unknown, contributing factors can include:

• Use of heavy face creams and moisturizers
• Topical steroid creams
• Dental products containing fluoride
• Stress and hormonal fluctuations
• Yeast overgrowth
• Bacteria such as staph

How Tea Tree Oil May Help

Tea tree oil comes from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant native to Australia. It contains powerful antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds. Using diluted tea tree oil may help perioral dermatitis by:

• Fighting bacteria on the skin that trigger inflammation
• Calming redness, swelling and itching
• Promoting healing of damaged skin
• Preventing secondary infections
• Drying out weeping or oozing blisters

Always dilute tea tree oil before applying to skin, as concentrated oil can cause irritation. It should not be swallowed.

Using Tea Tree Oil to Treat Perioral Dermatitis Flare-Ups

Here are some effective ways to use diluted tea tree oil for perioral dermatitis:

Facial Cleanser

Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a mild facial cleanser. Gently cleanse problem areas once or twice a day. Rinse thoroughly. This helps eliminate bacteria and soothe irritation.

Spot Treatment

Dab diluted tea tree oil directly onto bumps and lesions using a cotton swab. Apply 2-3 times daily after cleaning. Let dry fully before applying other products.

Healing Mask

Make a healing mask by mixing a few drops of tea tree oil with soothing natural ingredients like raw honey, aloe vera gel or plain yogurt. Apply to affected area for 10-15 minutes then rinse off.

Tea Tree Steam Facial

Add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil to a bowl of hot water. Drape a towel over your head and carefully hover over the bowl to get the healing vapors. Steam for 5-10 minutes to reduce inflammation.

Soothing Bath Soak

Add a few drops of tea tree oil diluted in a carrier oil like coconut oil to a warm bath and soak to ease itching and irritation on the skin.

Healing Spot Cream

Mix a small amount of tea tree oil with a soothing natural cream or aloe vera gel. Apply this lightly toproblem spots to speed up healing.

Guidelines for Using Tea Tree Oil Safely

While using tea tree oil for perioral dermatitis can help, take precautions to avoid adverse effects:

Always Dilute

Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil or moisturizer before applying to skin. Use 2-3 drops of tea tree oil per 1 teaspoon of carrier.

Do a Patch Test

Try diluted tea tree oil on a small area of skin first to test for irritation or allergic reaction before wider use.

Avoid Eye Area

Use extra caution when applying near eyes. Immediately rinse if tea tree oil gets in eyes to prevent stinging and irritation.

Watch for Reaction

Discontinue use if skin becomes red, itchy or inflamed after applying. Seek medical treatment for severe reactions.

Don't Swallow

Do not ingest tea tree oil, as it can be toxic if consumed internally. Spit it out immediately if any gets in the mouth.

Talk to Your Doctor

Check with your dermatologist before trying tea tree oil, especially if using other medications. Stop use if it causes worsening.

Using tea tree oil safely allows you to maximize the benefits while reducing risk of side effects.

Other Natural Remedies for Perioral Dermatitis

In addition to tea tree oil, other gentle natural options may also help soothe perioral dermatitis flare-ups:

Aloe Vera Gel

Pure aloe vera gel from the leaf helps calm inflammation and hydrate irritated skin.

Coconut Oil

Antimicrobial coconut oil can moisturize and protect skin while combating bacteria and yeast overgrowth.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Diluted apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid that can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce redness.

Honey

Raw honey has natural antibacterial and wound-healing abilities to promote skin recovery.

Oatmeal

Colloidal oatmeal relieves irritation, inflammation and itchiness when used in baths or masks.

Probiotics

Oral probiotic supplements support healthy gut bacteria to reduce inflammation and yeast issues.

Managing Flare-Ups for Relief

In addition to using tea tree oil and natural remedies, these tips can help manage perioral dermatitis flare-ups:

• Avoid known triggers like heavy creams, steroid creams, fluoride products
• Stick to a gentle facial cleanser and lightweight moisturizer
• Reduce stress and practice self-care to prevent flares
• Wear mineral sunscreen when outdoors
• Avoid picking or scratching bumps to prevent infection
• Rinse after eating to remove food particles
• Stay hydrated and eat probiotic-rich foods

See your dermatologist if symptoms worsen or don't improve within a few weeks. More aggressive treatment may be needed for severe cases.

When to Seek Medical Treatment

Consult your doctor about your perioral dermatitis if you experience:

• Very inflamed, painful rash
• Oozing or crusting lesions
• Rash spreading to eyes or other areas
• Signs of skin infection
• No improvement after several weeks
• Frequent recurrence of flare-ups

For moderate to severe cases, prescription medications may be needed like:

Oral Antibiotics

Antibiotics taken by mouth target bacterial overgrowth and reduce inflammation. Common choices are tetracycline or erythromycin.

Topical Antibiotics

Antibiotic creams containing metronidazole or clindamycin applied directly to the rash can help control symptoms.

Oral Anti-Yeast Medication

An oral antifungal like fluconazole may be prescribed if yeast overgrowth is contributing to flares.

Sulfone Creams

Sulfone-containing creams have anti-inflammatory effects that can calm rash symptoms.

For recurring cases, long-term antibiotic use may be necessary to keep perioral dermatitis under control. Seek prompt treatment if over-the-counter methods don't help.

Preventing Perioral Dermatitis Flare-Ups

You can reduce the risk of perioral dermatitis recurring by:

• Using products labeled non-comedogenic
• Avoiding harsh scrubs and exfoliants
• Rinsing skin after sweating or swimming
• Washing pillowcases regularly
• Not using topical steroids long-term
• Taking probiotic supplements
• Eating yogurt with live cultures
• Stopping use of fluoride-containing products

Keep skin around the mouth clean and hydrated, but avoid greasy products. See a dermatologist at the first sign of flare symptoms. Consistent prevention helps minimize recurring bouts of perioral dermatitis.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.