Patients of both genders frequently ask us about treatment of Rosacea. This skin condition affects about 45 million people worldwide and women tend to be most at risk. It is also more common among middle-aged people.
While Rosacea can be a problematic, life-altering condition, new hope is on the horizon by way of light based therapy (IPL), modern laser technology and advanced skin care treatments.
If you or someone close to you suffers from Rosacea, you are probably familiar with unexplained flushing or redness in your cheeks, nose, neck, and eventually broken capillaries around your nose and cheeks. Some severe cases lead to acne-like red bumps and uncomfortable stinging.
Rosacea can also cause itchy, irritated eyes and a red ‘globular-like’ nose. Some patients even develop cysts that are similar to cystic acne. This is a frustrating and often misdiagnosed condition. Many times it mimics common acne or dermatitis, resulting in prescribed treatments that won’t directly treat the real problem.
Rosacea Causes: What to Avoid
If you’re suffering from the embarrassment of Rosacea, you should know that you may avoid or minimize flare ups by taking a few precautions. Here are a few tips that can help make your condition more manageable.
Use Gentle, Fragrance-Free Cleansers
If you’ve been diagnosed with Rosacea, one of the first proactive steps you can take is to purchase a non-irritating cleanser. If you’re unsure of what to buy, or would like a prescription, visit a dermatologist like Dr. Carney, medical spa, or plastic surgeon. We offer clinical grade skincare products that are extremely gentle to the skin (SkinCeuticals and Obagi products are common choices.) If you’re searching for something over-the-counter, Cetaphil is widely recommended by dermatologists. Any cleanser with alcohol, artificial coloring or fragrance is strongly discouraged.
Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen!
Sun exposure causes premature wrinkles and sun damage (not to mention skin cancer) and getting sunburned also greatly increases the likelihood of a Rosacea flare up. This is why any skincare professional will recommend applying at least a 25 SPF sunscreen before going outside. We recommend a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 45+. Please be sure to follow application directions and to reapply your sunscreen frequently.
Cleanse Your Eyelids Too!
Patients frequently overlook their eyelids because the redness at the base of the eyelashes is hard see. If left untreated, you could even lose your lashes. Be sure to cleanse your lids carefully. For ease of use, you may consider a product such as OCuSoft Lid Scrub (over-the-counter at your local drug store), specifically formulated as an eyelid cleanser.
Avoid Temperature Extremes
There is no doubt that heat causes Rosacea to flare up.¬† That’s why symptoms are usually worse during the winter (when the heat is cranked up in most homes and offices) or on a blazing hot summer day. During the winter, try to keep your heat register at the lowest comfortable temperature. In the summertime, try to stay in the air conditioning and out of the direct sun.
Avoid Alcohol. Especially if you’re a wine drinker. Alcohol – red wine in particular – causes the skin to flush. Certain foods can also trigger flushing, such as spicy food, fruits with a lot of antioxidants and caffeine.
How can I conceal redness while using Rosacea treatments?
The color green is a corrector and neutralizes redness. This is a well-known professional makeup artist trick. Just dab the red areas of your skin with green concealer before applying your regular foundation. Blend the concealer into your foundation until you achieve one smooth, even color. This will work while you are using products to reduce redness and control your Rosacea.
Ask Dr. Carney which treatments and products are available for you or for someone you know who is suffering from Rosacea. We can significantly reduce the redness of a Rosacea breakout and help you avoid flare-ups in the future. Let us give you what so many people take for granted – an ease and confidence that comes from facing the world with clear, attractive skin.
