The Reality of Rosacea

Rosacea usually begins as a frequent flushing and reddening of the skin, especially in the regions of the nose, forehead, cheeks and chin, and is often accompanied by a mild to severe burning sensation. The burning sensation tends to be worsened with any form of topical facial applications, including moisturizers and makeup. After the beginning stage, rosacea can progress to several other phases including, vascular rosacea and inflammatory rosacea.

In vascular rosacea, the skin is more often than not flushed. Small blood vessels at the surface of the skin may dilate, giving the skin an even more reddish hue. This blood vessel activity is known as telangiectasia. The skin may be warm to the touch and may even feel slightly swollen and tight. Inflammatory rosacea may involve the above described telangiectasia phenomena in addition to the appearance of pustules and papules across the face.

In the more advanced forms of rosacea, the bumps and nodules typically seen in inflammatory rosacea may become swollen, hard and painful. The telangiectasia may worsen and eye problems such as inflammation can be seen. Additionally, skin color turns a deep red.

As the cause of rosacea is unknown, likewise there is no cure available at this time. The goal of treatment therefore is to bring quality of life back to the individual who suffers from the condition. Rosacea can cause great disturbance in one’s social and personal life if the condition cannot be or isn’t managed. Severe and advanced cases should be referred to a dermatologist who can treat the patient with antibiotics and other medical drugs. However, for individuals with mild cases, the condition can usually be managed on their own with regular visits to their dermatologist or health care provider for periodic checkups.

If you are one of the individuals with a mild case and you and your dermatologist have decided that home therapy will work for you, here are some excellent recommendations for rosacea friendly skin care products and tips.

1. Always protect your skin with an SPF sunscreen.
2. Avoid allergenic materials and foods that trigger your rosacea to flare up.
3. Consider starting a Rosacea Journal where you write down when and in what settings your rosacea tends to worsen. In this way you will be able to identify the triggers and avoid them when possible.
4. Speak to your doctor about adding in supplements to promote healthy skin such as omega-3 fatty acids and a multivitamin.
5. Eat a diet high in fiber, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and low in saturated and trans fat as well as processed and refined foods.
6. Drink plenty of water each day.
7. Follow the recommended guidelines for adequate exercise and movement.

Skin care products that may promote healing of rosacea damaged skin include:

Rosacea Care Willowherb Serum with Vitamin K moistens and soothes inflamed and infected skin. It is formulated to be both anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial, both much needed for those with sensitive rosacea skin. The ingredients will not irritate the skin and are designed to help heal damaged skin and reduce visible patches of redness.

Rosaliac by La Roche-Posay moisturizes while minimizing signs of redness and irritation. Rosaliac is made with a unique set of ingredients that include Xanthine, which works to soothe the skin and decrease redness. Vitamin CG strengthens weakened skin while La Roche Thermal Spring Water will sooth inflamed rosacea flare ups. This moisturizer can be used every day to help with rosacea symptoms.

To nourish and promote healthy skin growth try PCA Skin® ReBalance - pHaze 17. This pH balanced moisturizer works to decrease signs of redness, inflammation and trauma by hydrating and nourishing the underlying layers of tissue.

Article posted 10/19/2006.

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ReBalance - pHaze 17 by PCA Skin® $32.00

Rosaliac Skin Perfecting Moisturizer by La Roche-Posay $32.00

Willowherb Serum with Vitamin K by Rosacea Care $52.00