Dermatologists’ Tips for Rosacea Relief
Rosacea is a skin condition that mainly affects the face. Flushing, lasting color (red, violet, or brown), acne-like breakouts, or visible blood vessels are all signs and symptoms of rosacea. In more severe cases, some people develop irritation around their eyes or thickening skin.
The exact causes of rosacea are unclear, but some researchers believe it is linked to your body’s inflammatory response. Inflammation is a key part of your body’s ability to fight off infection and heal injuries – this means that the immune system activates cells that lead to inflammation. It’s possible that when someone has rosacea, their immune system is triggered by things like sunlight, heat or spicy foods.
The providers at Cornerstone Dermatology are experts in diagnosing and treating rosacea.
If you’re experimenting rosacea symptoms, here are some tips from our providers that can help bring relief.
Tips for Managing Rosacea
1. Gentle Cleansing: Use a mild, non-abrasive cleanser twice a day to wash your face. Avoid harsh scrubbing or using hot water, as these can irritate the skin and worsen rosacea symptoms.
2. Sun Protection: Sun exposure is a common trigger for rosacea flare-ups. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF every day, even on cloudy days. Opt for a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients are less likely to cause irritation.
3. Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid triggers that worsen your rosacea symptoms. Common triggers include spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, extreme temperatures, and stress. Keeping a diary can help you track what triggers your flare-ups.
4. Gentle Skincare Products: Choose skincare products labeled "non-comedogenic" or "gentle" to minimize irritation. Avoid products containing alcohol, fragrances, menthol, or exfoliating ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids, as these can aggravate rosacea.
5. Moisturize: Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer daily to keep your skin hydrated. Look for moisturizers containing ingredients like ceramides, hyaluronic acid, or glycerin, which help to soothe and protect the skin barrier.
6. Topical Treatments: Your dermatologist may prescribe topical medications such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, or sulfacetamide/sulfur to help reduce redness and inflammation associated with rosacea. Follow your dermatologist's instructions carefully when using these medications.
7. Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications such as antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline) or low-dose isotretinoin may be prescribed to control rosacea symptoms. These medications work by reducing inflammation and preventing flare-ups.
8. Cooling Therapies: Applying cool compresses or using facial mists can help soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with rosacea. Avoid hot water or steam, as these can exacerbate symptoms.
9. Minimize Stress: Stress can trigger rosacea flare-ups, so it's essential to find ways to manage stress effectively. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce stress levels.
10. Consult a Dermatologist: If you're struggling to manage your rosacea symptoms, don't hesitate to seek help from a dermatologist. They can provide personalized treatment options and advice tailored to your specific needs.
Remember that managing rosacea often requires patience and consistency. It may take some time to find the right combination of treatments that work best for you, so be persistent and gentle with your skin.