Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that if not controlled can worsen over time.  It used to be thought to be a form of acne, but research has shown that it is more vascular in nature. While it can occur on any skin it tends to be more prevalent on lighter skin tones. It is more common in women than in men, but it can be more aggressive in male sufferers. In the United States it affects more than 16 million people but some are never diagnosed or know what is behind their ruddy cheeks.

Rosacea can manifest at any age, but it is more common to show up in the 30's to 40's. Symptoms include redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead, small blood vessels on the face, watery eyes and sometimes acne like breakouts. Typically breakouts look like tiny bumps or pimples. In more severe cases nodules or cysts can form which  must be treated by a medical professional.

For each person different things can trigger the face to become more red and or a breakout to occur or "flare". It is important to become aware of what your individual triggers are. Keeping a diary is handy.  If you have a flare think back to what you have been doing and eating in the last 24 hours. For most people sun will cause a flare.  Always wear sun protection when going outdoors and don't let the fact you are using an SPF lure you into staying too long.  Some sufferers find sun protection products can trigger a flare.  If you have this problem, look for "physical" blocks.  These typically have zinc oxide and or titanium dioxide in them. They seem to be much less problematic for those with rosacea.  Other common triggers can be caffeine, wine, spicy foods, or heat, especially humid.

Look for skin care products designed for sensitive skin as these will be free of triggers like fragrance. Rosacea skin is sensitive skin.  Gentle cleansers not harsh soaps are the best choice. In moisturizers go for something light weight.  Look for products with calming, soothing ingredients like chamomile, allantoin, arnica Montana, panthenol, sea whip, reversatrol and many others.  The guidance of a well trained skin care professional can be quite helpful.  Avoid rough or abrasive scrubs, harsh masks, extreme heat, or stimulating facial treatments.  Think calming and soothing.

As a skin care professional for over 30 years, I have found gentle enzyme treatments, ultrasonic treatments, LED therapy all work very well for my rosacea clients.  Avoid most chemical peels unless they are specifically designed for your skin type and microdermabrasion treatments are not your best choice. Properly selected products and treatments can keep your skin in balance and the redness controlled or eliminated. Some of my clients have reported even a doctor did not realize they had rosacea.

Only a doctor can diagnose rosacea. Because it can worsen over time, it is best to get it diagnosed so that if appropriate a topical or oral prescription therapy can be implemented. This in conjunction with learning your triggers, selecting gentle sensitive skin products, using SPF and finding a good esthetician to help you in the ongoing battle and your skin can look its best leaving you less concerns and more able to enjoy life.