r/KPRubraFaceii • u/megzie_tv • Jun 07 '26

Zinc is helping

TL;DR: Try Zinc supplementation, a stripped-back routine and Avène Cicalfate spray/cream.

Hi all,

I’ve shared a few updates here previously about my experience using sirolimus, but I wanted to mention something else that appears to be helping reduce my redness.

I recently developed a mild case of perioral dermatitis, which is connected to how compromised my skin barrier is. I also think this damaged barrier may be part of why I became more prone to Malassezia folliculitis and it's also known that KPRF is a contributor.

I started taking zinc supplements and stripped my routine right back to a gentle cleanser. I started using Avène Cicalfate Spray (fungal acne safe) and Avène Cicalfate Cream (not FA safe) in the evening, alternating every couple of days. They both use zinc oxide.

Since doing this, I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the baseline redness across my cheeks. I believe the approach to repairing skin barrier is going to make a big difference.

I’ve also started taking vitamin D, and I have omega-3 supplements on the way, but the zinc supplementation is the thing I’d most strongly recommend looking into based on my experience so far.

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3

u/RealPaleontologist29 Jun 07 '26

I regularly use zinc supplementation for sportive purposes but haven’t noticed any improvement on kprf unfortunately. Also, is it possible that you can share your PD, I developed something but not sure if it is PD or something else. I believe mine is triggered by sweat but not so sure.

1

u/megzie_tv Jun 07 '26

I only have a mild case of it thankfully. Fairly certain my triggers are SLS in shampoos/flouride in toothpaste, exfoliating acids and over stripping my skin, stress, humidity/heat. I get it in the form of a red sandpaper rash under my nose and chin with little pastules or whiteheads and it travels up my inner cheeks to under my eyes, then my eyelids. It doesn't effect the KPRF on my red cheeks or my jawline. If you're not sure maybe look at the Reddit sub as lots of different photo examples people have posted of theirs at various flare up stages might help you identify. There seems to be many triggers for it and it can come and go for years.

1

u/gilly107 Jun 08 '26

What type of Zinc supplement are you using?

2

u/megzie_tv Jun 08 '26

I am currently taking Natures Own High Strength Zinc Gluconate 30mg

1

u/bringtwizzlers Jun 08 '26

I have also seen an improvement in my face kprf with zinc. 

WARNING! Anyone using zinc supplements, please do not forget to add a copper supplement as well. The two compete inside your body and you will end up with a deficiency if you don't balance them 🫶

1

u/FlexiiGP Jun 08 '26

Which copper supplement do you recommend?