STEPHANIE YEAGER
February 15, 2015
I sent this picture to my mother the day after Valentine's day, 2015. The light glare makes the rashes a bit hard to see but my expression says it all: this hurts. Literally. But also, I hate the way I look. A far cry from the beautiful professional style profile picture (seen above) taken long before any of this began. But to explain how I got here I have to go back a little further. To November 2013.
That fall I got a small "break-out" just under my nose. I treated it like acne but that wasn't helping. In fact, my skin in that area was starting to flake and crust over plus it was spreading. Over the summer I suffered a bout with shingles on my leg. So in November I went to the dermatologist begging him to tell me it wasn't shingles that had appeared under my nose. (Knowing what I know now, I might have chosen the shingles). He told me, "oh no, shingles are never symmetrical on both sides of the body. This is clearly f!os*p*r%ti@ss#."
I mean let's be honest, I didn't know nor remember what the heck he called it. He handed me two bags of samples (because he sympathized with my state of poorness) and I was to take the antibiotic and use the prescription cream until I saw him again in 12 weeks. He sort of apologized for the patience I would need to display in letting the medication work. But I wasn't that upset about the long wait, if that's what it took, I was in.
He told me that this condition is a pre-curser to rosacea (hey, that word I knew even if I didn't know what it was) and that if it returned I'd have to go back on antibiotics. As I walked out of his office he told me to enjoy my holidays and by the way "don't have any warm drinks". It makes it worse. How mean is that? Happy Holidays, don't have any warm drinks...
So as the weeks go by it does slowly clear up. I see my primary care provider in there somewhere and I tell her about it. She asks what it's called and I'm like uh... And so she tries "googling" pre-curser to rosacea but can't find anything. I thought maybe it had the word "occipital" in there somewhere. Wrong body part. When I see the dermatologist to follow up I make him write down the word on a piece of paper. Perioral Dermatitis. He tells me to keep using the antibiotic a little longer and to keep using the prescription cream until my skin is "crystal clear". So I do. Once off all the meds I sort of forget about the whole thing, except I still add a little extra mineral foundation under my nose each day. I guess in my imagination that area was still sort of "blemished".
That fall I got a small "break-out" just under my nose. I treated it like acne but that wasn't helping. In fact, my skin in that area was starting to flake and crust over plus it was spreading. Over the summer I suffered a bout with shingles on my leg. So in November I went to the dermatologist begging him to tell me it wasn't shingles that had appeared under my nose. (Knowing what I know now, I might have chosen the shingles). He told me, "oh no, shingles are never symmetrical on both sides of the body. This is clearly f!os*p*r%ti@ss#."
I mean let's be honest, I didn't know nor remember what the heck he called it. He handed me two bags of samples (because he sympathized with my state of poorness) and I was to take the antibiotic and use the prescription cream until I saw him again in 12 weeks. He sort of apologized for the patience I would need to display in letting the medication work. But I wasn't that upset about the long wait, if that's what it took, I was in.
He told me that this condition is a pre-curser to rosacea (hey, that word I knew even if I didn't know what it was) and that if it returned I'd have to go back on antibiotics. As I walked out of his office he told me to enjoy my holidays and by the way "don't have any warm drinks". It makes it worse. How mean is that? Happy Holidays, don't have any warm drinks...
So as the weeks go by it does slowly clear up. I see my primary care provider in there somewhere and I tell her about it. She asks what it's called and I'm like uh... And so she tries "googling" pre-curser to rosacea but can't find anything. I thought maybe it had the word "occipital" in there somewhere. Wrong body part. When I see the dermatologist to follow up I make him write down the word on a piece of paper. Perioral Dermatitis. He tells me to keep using the antibiotic a little longer and to keep using the prescription cream until my skin is "crystal clear". So I do. Once off all the meds I sort of forget about the whole thing, except I still add a little extra mineral foundation under my nose each day. I guess in my imagination that area was still sort of "blemished".
This picture is from September, 2014. Aw, so pretty. Nice and clear skin. Then, in November of 2014 - one year since my first little "break out" - it returns. It begins sort of faint and subtle but definitely there. Now I'm angry. Really angry. Mostly because over the last year I've learned more and more, thanks to my side project paindownthere.com, about the connection between IBS and persistent painful sex. If you suffer, as I do, from sexual, genital or pelvic pain, I encourage you to check out the site!
The voice of the dermatologist is ringing in my ears "you'll have to go back on antibiotics". And I already know that antibiotics are not good for the gut. Antibiotics for perioral dermatitis/rosacea probably particularly because you're on them for SO LONG (12 + weeks).
If: antibiotics = worsening IBS = more painful sex
Then antibiotics are just not an option for me. It's out. Not happening. Besides, obviously antibiotics and prescription creams didn't offer a permanent solution to the problem, did they? If I went back on them now, maybe it'd clear up but only to come haunt me again and again, all the while wreaking complete havoc on my digestive system.
So, instead of calling the dermatologist I google search "natural cures for rosacea". And over the next several months I built a supplement collection that overwhelmed my kitchen counters. Each new supplement shipped to my door brought with it renewed hope. Maybe this will work! But despite trying everything on the list, I still wake up that morning of February 15, 2015 texting my mother my muzzle mouth selfie and telling her I'm in a "vanity crisis".
The voice of the dermatologist is ringing in my ears "you'll have to go back on antibiotics". And I already know that antibiotics are not good for the gut. Antibiotics for perioral dermatitis/rosacea probably particularly because you're on them for SO LONG (12 + weeks).
If: antibiotics = worsening IBS = more painful sex
Then antibiotics are just not an option for me. It's out. Not happening. Besides, obviously antibiotics and prescription creams didn't offer a permanent solution to the problem, did they? If I went back on them now, maybe it'd clear up but only to come haunt me again and again, all the while wreaking complete havoc on my digestive system.
So, instead of calling the dermatologist I google search "natural cures for rosacea". And over the next several months I built a supplement collection that overwhelmed my kitchen counters. Each new supplement shipped to my door brought with it renewed hope. Maybe this will work! But despite trying everything on the list, I still wake up that morning of February 15, 2015 texting my mother my muzzle mouth selfie and telling her I'm in a "vanity crisis".
February 21, 2015
Being at a total loss for what to do, I researched which dermatologists my health-sharing plan covers in the Chicago area. Maybe my "small-town" derm isn't privy to the latest advances in treating this issue. I am surprised to discover that they cover a doctor of dermatology at the University of Chicago. I set up the appointment. I mean, surely the University of Chicago is involved in ongoing research and has access to the newest, latest, and greatest, right? My hopes were back up.
In the weeks before my appointment I keep a journal of everything I eat, the supplements I take, when I poop, when I have a stomach ache, how much I sleep, if I exercise and for how long, what I put on my face, etc. I agree somewhere in there to dress up as Princess Elsa for a children's birthday party. I put a lot of cream-based foundation on my face to hide what looks like a disease around my nose and mouth. For once in a long time, I feel pretty. I run around with the kids and play games. I get a bit overheated and sweaty. I realized afterward that between that and the make-up, my face had become much worse in a matter of hours. Don't have a pic of that, I wasn't thinking at the moment that I'd be putting them up on the internet. Most of the pictures I do have are selfies I sent to my mom. :)
It was this incident, as well as a bad flare after a zero calorie day where I was sick and didn't feel like eating, that got me looking into body extremes and rosacea / perioral dermatitis. I learned: I can't get too cold. I can't get too hot. I can't sweat. I can't wear makeup. I can't eat too much, I can't eat not enough. I can't have alcohol. I can't have spicy food. I can't have sugar. I can't have hot drinks. I can't take hot showers. I can't take cold showers. As you can maybe imagine, I'm crying at this point. (and oh, yeah, don't cry - that makes it worse too). Basically what I've just learned is: I can't be human.
And the next thought that crept in went something like this: "you know, if you can't do the things that you enjoy doing... if you can't have the things you want to have... if you miss out on all of life because of this then maybe you should just.... not... live."
To pick up this part of the story, visit my page on the spiritual implications of perioral dermatitis and rosacea.
In the weeks before my appointment I keep a journal of everything I eat, the supplements I take, when I poop, when I have a stomach ache, how much I sleep, if I exercise and for how long, what I put on my face, etc. I agree somewhere in there to dress up as Princess Elsa for a children's birthday party. I put a lot of cream-based foundation on my face to hide what looks like a disease around my nose and mouth. For once in a long time, I feel pretty. I run around with the kids and play games. I get a bit overheated and sweaty. I realized afterward that between that and the make-up, my face had become much worse in a matter of hours. Don't have a pic of that, I wasn't thinking at the moment that I'd be putting them up on the internet. Most of the pictures I do have are selfies I sent to my mom. :)
It was this incident, as well as a bad flare after a zero calorie day where I was sick and didn't feel like eating, that got me looking into body extremes and rosacea / perioral dermatitis. I learned: I can't get too cold. I can't get too hot. I can't sweat. I can't wear makeup. I can't eat too much, I can't eat not enough. I can't have alcohol. I can't have spicy food. I can't have sugar. I can't have hot drinks. I can't take hot showers. I can't take cold showers. As you can maybe imagine, I'm crying at this point. (and oh, yeah, don't cry - that makes it worse too). Basically what I've just learned is: I can't be human.
And the next thought that crept in went something like this: "you know, if you can't do the things that you enjoy doing... if you can't have the things you want to have... if you miss out on all of life because of this then maybe you should just.... not... live."
To pick up this part of the story, visit my page on the spiritual implications of perioral dermatitis and rosacea.
March 5, 2015
With my journal in-hand and a tote bag of all my supplements, I walk into the University of Chicago Medicine Dermatology center. The doctors are nice but it doesn't take long to realize what I've been fearing: they don't know. They don't know what causes rosacea or perioral dermatitis. They don't know why antibiotics "work", possibly due to their anti-inflammatory properties. They don't know what else to do for me if I don't want to go on antibiotics, other than prescription creams and laser light therapies to the face that cost $300 a pop at multiple sessions per year. I let them prescribe me a topical cream I hadn't tried before, telling myself I didn't have to fill it. And that was that. They wanted me to come back in 2 months but for what? I could just as easily follow up with my "small-town" dermatologist, who I was now apologizing to in my head for thinking he was any less educated.
As I'm checking out with the receptionist I'm uncontrollably crying. She asked me if I need a "moment" and I told her taking a "moment" wasn't going to help me, I'd just like to be on my way home. All this way, a day off work, and (as I would later receive in the mail) a $500 bill just to hear what I already knew and nothing I couldn't find myself on the internet. Great.
As I'm checking out with the receptionist I'm uncontrollably crying. She asked me if I need a "moment" and I told her taking a "moment" wasn't going to help me, I'd just like to be on my way home. All this way, a day off work, and (as I would later receive in the mail) a $500 bill just to hear what I already knew and nothing I couldn't find myself on the internet. Great.
March 6, 2015
I decided to fill the script for the topical cream after all. I didn't know what else to do. I figured I might as well try it, at least it would make my trip to University of Chicago not a total waste. I committed to sticking to it for 2 months. That would take me to early May and I could reassess then. $285 later I had "azelaic acid gel" in my hand. And acid is exactly what I felt like. Twice a day I endured the extreme stinging and pain. It kept me awake at night. It made it hard to talk in the mornings. But I had committed and the box insert said the burning would get better.
One Sunday morning I was supposed to give announcements for my church service. It hurt to move my mouth and I had no idea how I was going to get through it. I asked for prayer from a young woman helping with coffee that morning. After the service (I did get through it) she introduced me to her friend, Jen, who could personally identify with me. Jen and I agreed to meet later that week.
One Sunday morning I was supposed to give announcements for my church service. It hurt to move my mouth and I had no idea how I was going to get through it. I asked for prayer from a young woman helping with coffee that morning. After the service (I did get through it) she introduced me to her friend, Jen, who could personally identify with me. Jen and I agreed to meet later that week.
March 11, 2015
I meet Jen at her house. I go totally makeup-less so she can get a good look at my face. I wish I had a pic, it was bad. She tells me she's experienced the exact same thing. Of course as we are talking about it I'm trying to swallow back my jealousy that currently she isn't experiencing the exact same thing. (I found I struggled with that a lot actually, noticing everyone else's nose and chin areas everywhere I went. Secretly mad at complete strangers for not understanding how blessed they were to have such clear, normal skin. And swearing if mine ever cleared up I'd never take that for granted again.)
Jen sent me home with a combination of diluted essential oils for facial cosmetic purposes. As well as some dietary supplements that worked well for her in supporting immune health and wellness. Please contact me if you're interested in more information.
Jen sent me home with a combination of diluted essential oils for facial cosmetic purposes. As well as some dietary supplements that worked well for her in supporting immune health and wellness. Please contact me if you're interested in more information.
March 18, 2015
Want to do a little catching up as far as "facial cleansers". I ditched the "for sensitive skin" body wash my local dermatologist originally recommended because it seemed to be making things worse. After that I tried a slue of other alternatives, all supposedly for sensitive skin or even specifically for rosacea. All of them were disappointments. I did a little more research about natural cleansing techniques and tried the oil method there for a while. Superior to the drug store solutions for sure but the main way it cleanses is through steam and my face wasn't havin that.
Fast forward a bit with me to the fancy Chicago dermatologist, they recommend I use this dandruff shampoo to wash my face. I guess to help with the dry, flaky characteristics. I tried it and it did address that particular aspect but the bumps and the redness weren't getting any better. After some further investigation in "google" searching perioral dermatitis (I made the switch in my search engine key word choice after Jen looked at me kinda funny when I told her my issue was rosacea) I discover that a popular chemical in health/beauty products called Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) should be avoided because it's a known skin irritant. I grab my bottle of dandruff shampoo. Sure enough, SLS ... right there in the ingredient list. Ugh! Seriously?!
With Jen's help I manage to find some non-irritating, workable solutions for face cleansing:
- Alcohol Free Witch Hazel: use it on a cotton ball to remove dirt and oils all over the face, no water needed.
- Young Living Essential Oils Orange Blossom Facial Wash: Just a pinky fingernail amount is enough. I find this is great for removing eye makeup (if that's something you can tolerate) whereas the witch hazel doesn't do a great job of that.
Fast forward a bit with me to the fancy Chicago dermatologist, they recommend I use this dandruff shampoo to wash my face. I guess to help with the dry, flaky characteristics. I tried it and it did address that particular aspect but the bumps and the redness weren't getting any better. After some further investigation in "google" searching perioral dermatitis (I made the switch in my search engine key word choice after Jen looked at me kinda funny when I told her my issue was rosacea) I discover that a popular chemical in health/beauty products called Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS) should be avoided because it's a known skin irritant. I grab my bottle of dandruff shampoo. Sure enough, SLS ... right there in the ingredient list. Ugh! Seriously?!
With Jen's help I manage to find some non-irritating, workable solutions for face cleansing:
- Alcohol Free Witch Hazel: use it on a cotton ball to remove dirt and oils all over the face, no water needed.
- Young Living Essential Oils Orange Blossom Facial Wash: Just a pinky fingernail amount is enough. I find this is great for removing eye makeup (if that's something you can tolerate) whereas the witch hazel doesn't do a great job of that.
March 30, 2015
Continuing to search in Google and other sites like Pinterest for "perioral dermatitis" I find what would be a piece of key information for me:
Immediately discontinue the use of toothpaste with fluoride.
But how do I clean my teeth then? Aren't I going to get a bunch of cavities? I thought fluoride was our main defense in dental health, what the heck am I gonna do without it?
I start using Young Living Thieves Aromabright Toothpaste. My dental hygienist tells me I should try to introduce fluoride back in later with fluoride added water or something but doesn't seem overly concerned. My teeth feel great after brushing with the Young Living toothpaste and it even tastes ok :)
Immediately discontinue the use of toothpaste with fluoride.
But how do I clean my teeth then? Aren't I going to get a bunch of cavities? I thought fluoride was our main defense in dental health, what the heck am I gonna do without it?
I start using Young Living Thieves Aromabright Toothpaste. My dental hygienist tells me I should try to introduce fluoride back in later with fluoride added water or something but doesn't seem overly concerned. My teeth feel great after brushing with the Young Living toothpaste and it even tastes ok :)
April 2, 2015 |
April 3, 2015 |
April 5, 2015
Fluoride-free toothpaste has been a game changer for my chin. So what else am I missing here? I read a little more on this and that site and discover that any type of steroid use on the face is a big "no-no". Steroid creams on the face have been known to make conditions like perioral dermatitis much worse. They may work initially but when you stop using it the rash comes back even worse than before.
I wasn't using any kind of a steroid cream on my face. But I was using a steroid up my nose for allergies. Steroid nose sprays have been my best friend for years. Using them is the only way I've been able to keep from repetitive illnesses due to my environmental allergies. When I spray it in my nose, I direct it toward the outside of each nostril according to the package directions. And where is the angriest, most flared part of my face right now? You got it.
New mission (impossible): find some natural alternative to steroid nasal sprays that will actually work.
SinuSoothe has a great reputation on the internet for doing just that. They are out of the UK so it takes up to 15 days to get the product whether you order it from them directly or Amazon.
I wasn't using any kind of a steroid cream on my face. But I was using a steroid up my nose for allergies. Steroid nose sprays have been my best friend for years. Using them is the only way I've been able to keep from repetitive illnesses due to my environmental allergies. When I spray it in my nose, I direct it toward the outside of each nostril according to the package directions. And where is the angriest, most flared part of my face right now? You got it.
New mission (impossible): find some natural alternative to steroid nasal sprays that will actually work.
SinuSoothe has a great reputation on the internet for doing just that. They are out of the UK so it takes up to 15 days to get the product whether you order it from them directly or Amazon.
April 27, 2015
I immediately stopped using the nasal steroid back on April 5th. I pray my way through 15 days of waiting for SinuSoothe to arrive, so worried I would end up sick just as in all my previous experiences without a nasal steroid. Though I struggled with allergies, I didn't get sick.
SinuSoothe is kind of like putting hot sauce up your nose. So be warned. Its mix of organic sea salt and essential oils really cause a sting a first. But it's well worth it. I use it on a daily basis to clear up any sinus issues. It's my new best friend.
By the end of April, my face is looking pretty good, even around my nose. I take a few selfies and add some filters to have a little fun.
SinuSoothe is kind of like putting hot sauce up your nose. So be warned. Its mix of organic sea salt and essential oils really cause a sting a first. But it's well worth it. I use it on a daily basis to clear up any sinus issues. It's my new best friend.
By the end of April, my face is looking pretty good, even around my nose. I take a few selfies and add some filters to have a little fun.
May 4, 2015
Several days after my "I'm lookin good" selfie, I notice spots that are appearing in between my eyebrows, under my eyes and on my eye lids. So after some more searching online I order grapefruit seed extract essential oil through a company called "Secrets of Eden". Very thick stuff, which they say it better be if it's the real thing.
My online research told me to dilute it. But I was like "nah, I don't need that". And I put it right on my face, all over my eye lids and under my eye and in between my eyebrows and went to bed. It did burn but I mean, hey, my prescription gel burns too.
The next day I looked like somebody beat me up. I don't think I sent this one to my mom cause I was feeling pretty dumb but I sent it to a friend or two. I think it was actually helpful after the swelling went down. So I resolved to use grapefruit seed extract essential oil in a more responsible way*. I usually use it in the mornings to wash my face if I don't feel like using Witch Hazel. Just get your fingers wet with water and then let a few drops fall on your wet fingers. Rub your fingers together and then apply to your face like face wash. Rinse off with water immediately and pat dry. I also put 1-2 drops in a full glass of water and drink it in the mornings.
*Essential oils should always be used responsibly, ideally under the consultation of a certified and registered aromatherapist.
My online research told me to dilute it. But I was like "nah, I don't need that". And I put it right on my face, all over my eye lids and under my eye and in between my eyebrows and went to bed. It did burn but I mean, hey, my prescription gel burns too.
The next day I looked like somebody beat me up. I don't think I sent this one to my mom cause I was feeling pretty dumb but I sent it to a friend or two. I think it was actually helpful after the swelling went down. So I resolved to use grapefruit seed extract essential oil in a more responsible way*. I usually use it in the mornings to wash my face if I don't feel like using Witch Hazel. Just get your fingers wet with water and then let a few drops fall on your wet fingers. Rub your fingers together and then apply to your face like face wash. Rinse off with water immediately and pat dry. I also put 1-2 drops in a full glass of water and drink it in the mornings.
*Essential oils should always be used responsibly, ideally under the consultation of a certified and registered aromatherapist.
May 15, 2015
By now, one thing has become quite clear: I can't tolerate makeup on my eyes anymore. Within two hours of applying eye liner and mascara my eyes itch so bad I end up rubbing it all off anyway. This is not good news for my self esteem. I've used makeup to feel good about my appearance since I was like in 8th grade.
To read more on this topic see the Spiritual Implications of Perioral Dermatitis/Rosacea.
But I'm thankful my "oral" area is appearing less and less diseased. I just can't shake a few remaining spots on my upper nose, eye bone and eye lids. I have a convo with a "all-natural" friend and decide to try cutting out all chemicals.
To read more on this topic see the Spiritual Implications of Perioral Dermatitis/Rosacea.
But I'm thankful my "oral" area is appearing less and less diseased. I just can't shake a few remaining spots on my upper nose, eye bone and eye lids. I have a convo with a "all-natural" friend and decide to try cutting out all chemicals.
May 18, 2015
The first place I started is with my hair care. I threw out my mouse, my gel, my hairspray, my root booster, and my volumizing powder. And... my shampoo and conditioner. Yep. Even though I was using a good, natural brand it still contained synthetic (man-made, chemical) sudsing agents. I thought suds were good, the stuff that made you clean. The only way you get clean. Turns out commercially made products add fake sudsing elements to "aid" in this clean feeling. But they aren't actually necessary, or good for you.
I order samples of Morrocco Method Shampoos to give them a try. It felt like trying to wash my hair with mud. I figured out later the best way to make it work for me, which maybe I'll post about later. Since my hair had been covered in years of plastics and chemicals, my scalp and hair detoxed for about 4 months. For me, detox was greasy looking, heavy hair that was also drive-me-crazy staticky. So weird. These pictures are newly washed hair. You can see it just looks greasy and oily and gross.
I had dreams about washing my hair with regular shampoo. And then started to have dreams where I remembered I couldn't wash my hair with regular shampoo but I didn't have anything else. Haha! I wanted to give up multiple times. But persisted. And my face is much better for it. Now I don't even miss my products, my hair is more naturally beautiful, soft and thicker.
I order samples of Morrocco Method Shampoos to give them a try. It felt like trying to wash my hair with mud. I figured out later the best way to make it work for me, which maybe I'll post about later. Since my hair had been covered in years of plastics and chemicals, my scalp and hair detoxed for about 4 months. For me, detox was greasy looking, heavy hair that was also drive-me-crazy staticky. So weird. These pictures are newly washed hair. You can see it just looks greasy and oily and gross.
I had dreams about washing my hair with regular shampoo. And then started to have dreams where I remembered I couldn't wash my hair with regular shampoo but I didn't have anything else. Haha! I wanted to give up multiple times. But persisted. And my face is much better for it. Now I don't even miss my products, my hair is more naturally beautiful, soft and thicker.
May 25, 2015
Since I resolved to cut out chemicals I discontinued the use of the prescription Azelaic Acid gel on my face. I use the face oils twice a day now, at morning and at night. The soap I use in the shower is already organic/natural due to my Vestibulitis issues. I change the hand soaps to non-anti-bacterial.
One morning while in the middle of my lotion routine I gasp when I realize lotion's probably a no-no, too. So I use only organic virgin coconut oil for any body lotion/hand lotion need. I use Burt's Bees on my lips, my fav is their original beeswax lip balm, available at almost any drug store.
I also substituted other chemically-laden toiletry items with combinations of diluted essential oils.
One morning while in the middle of my lotion routine I gasp when I realize lotion's probably a no-no, too. So I use only organic virgin coconut oil for any body lotion/hand lotion need. I use Burt's Bees on my lips, my fav is their original beeswax lip balm, available at almost any drug store.
I also substituted other chemically-laden toiletry items with combinations of diluted essential oils.
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June 18, 2015
By now, there's just a few spots on the sides and bridge of my nose. I sent this picture to my mom, right before I made the switch to all-natural, chemical free deodorant. I've been procrastinating this change on purpose. In the past when I've tried natural deodorants I, and everyone around me, deeply regretted it.
My friend Jen says to detox my pits first. So for about a week I go with no deodorant. I keep Thieves toothpaste with me in my purse everywhere I go and rub it into my arm pits whenever they start smelling funky. Took the funk out right away every time.
Then I started using AromaGuard Deodorant by Young Living. It definitely was better than anything I've tried prior. For some reason the way it mixed with my body chemistry produced this spicy vinegar scent I wasn't loving. So I switched to Primal Pit Paste and have liked that better. I also love PiperWai.
My friend Jen says to detox my pits first. So for about a week I go with no deodorant. I keep Thieves toothpaste with me in my purse everywhere I go and rub it into my arm pits whenever they start smelling funky. Took the funk out right away every time.
Then I started using AromaGuard Deodorant by Young Living. It definitely was better than anything I've tried prior. For some reason the way it mixed with my body chemistry produced this spicy vinegar scent I wasn't loving. So I switched to Primal Pit Paste and have liked that better. I also love PiperWai.
June 20, 2015
Somewhere in here I read up on autoimmune diseases and diet. I already eat gluten-free but begin to gather that the consensus recommendation is to avoid grains all together (oats, corn, rice). And focus on quality protein meats, green/leafy veggies, and fruits in moderation. The strict version would say to eliminate eggs, nuts and seeds, too. It was a HUGE shift for me to go from breakfast granola to eggs and spinach. So I haven't been able to make the leap yet to scrambled meat and greens in the morning. I find staying away from grains most of the time is helpful not only for my face but for my stomach and digestive health. I notice fewer stomach aches and more regularity.
Want to know more about food sensitivities? Go HERE
*A word about probiotics: besides proper diet and nutrition to support healing autoimmune issues, probiotics may also be of aid. But not all probiotics are the same and in some cases, may even be counter indicated. So make sure you follow up about your diet and any supplements like probiotics with an integrative and functional medicine practitioner.
Want to know more about food sensitivities? Go HERE
*A word about probiotics: besides proper diet and nutrition to support healing autoimmune issues, probiotics may also be of aid. But not all probiotics are the same and in some cases, may even be counter indicated. So make sure you follow up about your diet and any supplements like probiotics with an integrative and functional medicine practitioner.
July 4, 2015
The weekend of July 4th I attend a wedding with my family and take this picture. Completely clear skin. I'm able to tolerate a little bareMinerals Foundation and Burt's Bees Lip Color.
However, I apparently cannot tolerate contact lenses anymore. I've got it in mind to try dailies (and fruit-based mascara, too) but getting this far has been expensive enough and my glasses are fine for now. I even like the way I look without eye makeup!
I (and my mom) are quite impressed at how good my face looks. It's taken a lot of time, resources, patience, and changes on my part. But healing did come. And I did it naturally so it will last. I don't have to worry about when the affects of the "we don't know why it works" antibiotics wear off and muzzle mouth makes an ugly come-back.
I can say with certainty that while God would have given me grace and strength to live life with a fully flared perioral dermatitis/rosacea face it doesn't look like I'll have to. My prayer is the same for you!
However, I apparently cannot tolerate contact lenses anymore. I've got it in mind to try dailies (and fruit-based mascara, too) but getting this far has been expensive enough and my glasses are fine for now. I even like the way I look without eye makeup!
I (and my mom) are quite impressed at how good my face looks. It's taken a lot of time, resources, patience, and changes on my part. But healing did come. And I did it naturally so it will last. I don't have to worry about when the affects of the "we don't know why it works" antibiotics wear off and muzzle mouth makes an ugly come-back.
I can say with certainty that while God would have given me grace and strength to live life with a fully flared perioral dermatitis/rosacea face it doesn't look like I'll have to. My prayer is the same for you!
March 10, 2020
Welp, sad as it is to say... my perioral dermatitis has returned. After getting off birth control in August of 2019 (after 15 years) I had some pretty bad side effects, one of which was terrible anxiety. Thankfully between essential oil support, some EMDR, and vitalistic chiropractic care I have been able to stabilize. Around the same time I also addressed a reactivation of Epstein-Barr Virus.
I was feeling so good I even decided to try weaning off of prozac come Spring of 2020. So to prep for that I figured I'd get off caffeine for a while, just give my brain a break. So I switched to a coffee substitute blend in the mornings.
I was feeling so good I even decided to try weaning off of prozac come Spring of 2020. So to prep for that I figured I'd get off caffeine for a while, just give my brain a break. So I switched to a coffee substitute blend in the mornings.
Somewhere admits all of that and the COVID-19 crisis, my perioral dermatitis broke out and won't heal. It fluctuates from better to worse to bad to not so bad but won't go away. After three weeks caffeine free I went back to coffee... in case I'm sensitive to something in the substitute. I find that this time I'm not as upset about how I look. It's ok. I'm more just frustrated because I know it's there for a reason, it's trying to tell me something and I don't know what it is.
I might try to ask my unconscious mind about it. Which I know sounds super weird... unless you study lucid dreaming. There may be some healing wisdom I can gain through my dreams. I'll post again here when I have an update.
~ Stephanie ❤️
I might try to ask my unconscious mind about it. Which I know sounds super weird... unless you study lucid dreaming. There may be some healing wisdom I can gain through my dreams. I'll post again here when I have an update.
~ Stephanie ❤️
MAY, 2020
Got progressively worse, as you can see. Spread to the other side of my mouth, down around my chin and then up into my eye area and in between my eye brows. And oh yeah... IN MY NOSE!
Stopped using my natural/organic mascara, went back to making homemade toothpaste, went completely grain-free for 40 days. Which was great for my belly aches! I felt amazing. But lost my period. I think my cycle was like: "wait, are we starving?"
There's literally NOTHING else I could possibly do or cut out. I mean I meditate for 15 minutes a day, my sleep is stellar. 10PM to 6:30AM. I chew my food, I eat in completely relaxed environments. All the things!
Finally decided to take a consult with a functional medicine practitioner I've been following for a while (and blow my entire stimulus check).
Oh and if you're wondering about my lucid dreams... I did ask my unconscious mind to meet my inner healing wisdom. It was COOL! She manifested more like a spiritual presence. And I felt healing energy, like intense vibration, in my gut. There's plenty of cases documented of lucid dream healing. For me, at least this time, it hasn't made a difference regarding the appearance of the POD.
Stopped using my natural/organic mascara, went back to making homemade toothpaste, went completely grain-free for 40 days. Which was great for my belly aches! I felt amazing. But lost my period. I think my cycle was like: "wait, are we starving?"
There's literally NOTHING else I could possibly do or cut out. I mean I meditate for 15 minutes a day, my sleep is stellar. 10PM to 6:30AM. I chew my food, I eat in completely relaxed environments. All the things!
Finally decided to take a consult with a functional medicine practitioner I've been following for a while (and blow my entire stimulus check).
Oh and if you're wondering about my lucid dreams... I did ask my unconscious mind to meet my inner healing wisdom. It was COOL! She manifested more like a spiritual presence. And I felt healing energy, like intense vibration, in my gut. There's plenty of cases documented of lucid dream healing. For me, at least this time, it hasn't made a difference regarding the appearance of the POD.
June, 2020
I'm posting below sections of my functional medicine lab results.
First, you'll see the GI MAP, which is a DNA based stool test. I've got several opportunistic bacteria overgrowing.
Second, the Organic Acids Test, which is a urine test that checks 76 metabolic markers. My markers for mold (Aspergillus) are high. Arabinose is way high out of range, this indicates candida overgrowth/infection. And I've got markers high for toxic exposure. Likely mold and mercury... I've got a mouth full.
On an herbal/supplemental protocol now for 6-8 weeks.
First, you'll see the GI MAP, which is a DNA based stool test. I've got several opportunistic bacteria overgrowing.
Second, the Organic Acids Test, which is a urine test that checks 76 metabolic markers. My markers for mold (Aspergillus) are high. Arabinose is way high out of range, this indicates candida overgrowth/infection. And I've got markers high for toxic exposure. Likely mold and mercury... I've got a mouth full.
On an herbal/supplemental protocol now for 6-8 weeks.
September, 2020
After about 4 months on an all-natural anti-fungal & anti-biotic protocol while also supporting my liver and adrenals, my 'peri-oral' area looks pretty good!
Got some trouble spots in between my eyebrows and at my temples. Sometimes those spots as they heal become really fragile and bleed at the slightest touch.
Got an appointment with a SMART certified dentist next month for a plan to remove all my dental amalgams.
I'm also going to trial 30 days without eggs and see if that makes any difference. Back when I did an elimination diet years ago they seemed to be fine. But since eggs can be connected with skin issues might as well try it. Goodbye go-too breakfast! 👋 😭
Got some trouble spots in between my eyebrows and at my temples. Sometimes those spots as they heal become really fragile and bleed at the slightest touch.
Got an appointment with a SMART certified dentist next month for a plan to remove all my dental amalgams.
I'm also going to trial 30 days without eggs and see if that makes any difference. Back when I did an elimination diet years ago they seemed to be fine. But since eggs can be connected with skin issues might as well try it. Goodbye go-too breakfast! 👋 😭
February 2021
See the image below for the out-of-range indicator on my mycotoxin (Mold Toxicity) results.... yikes! 😬
Normal range is under 25 and I'm at 182!
Normal range is under 25 and I'm at 182!
October, 2021
Things are looking pretty good! I have an occasional pimple here and there but nothing that causes me concern or makes me think there is some underlying issue still going on that's having to detox itself on my face. For occasional pimples I use ClearPro Toner by MaryKay.
I did get my mercury fillings removed. I've also continued to take activated charcoal and herbal anti-fungals to address the mold toxicity. So I'll continue on that until I can get my numbers to pretty much 0.
I think I might have found the mold culprit in my home. The litter box! Yep, I was cleaning it every 3 days or so but mold grows on cat urine after just 24-48 hours.
Also, on my face topically I've been using an Emu and Zinc soap. And then a zinc oxide organic moisturizer on my face (which is actually butt cream for babies... but don't judge...It really helps!) Due to the zinc oxide it gives my face a bit of a white-wash look. But that's better than a red-washed look.
PS: I still eat eggs. 😄 🍳
PPS: I'm able to tolerate this mascara.
I did get my mercury fillings removed. I've also continued to take activated charcoal and herbal anti-fungals to address the mold toxicity. So I'll continue on that until I can get my numbers to pretty much 0.
I think I might have found the mold culprit in my home. The litter box! Yep, I was cleaning it every 3 days or so but mold grows on cat urine after just 24-48 hours.
Also, on my face topically I've been using an Emu and Zinc soap. And then a zinc oxide organic moisturizer on my face (which is actually butt cream for babies... but don't judge...It really helps!) Due to the zinc oxide it gives my face a bit of a white-wash look. But that's better than a red-washed look.
PS: I still eat eggs. 😄 🍳
PPS: I'm able to tolerate this mascara.
Products I've found helpful this time around: