Rosacea: Your Guide to Manage Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It often causes redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and small, acne-like bumps. It can also lead to eye irritation and discomfort. While the exact cause is unknown, certain triggers can worsen symptoms.

Rosacea Symptoms:

• Persistent facial redness: Often appearing on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.
• Flushing: Temporary episodes of intense redness.
• Visible blood vessels: Small, dilated blood vessels on the face.
• Bumps and pimples: Similar to acne, these may contain pus.
• Burning or stinging sensation: Especially during flare-ups.
• Eye problems: Dryness, irritation, or redness of the eyes (ocular rosacea).
• Skin thickening: In severe cases, especially on the nose (rhinophyma).

Rosacea Treatment Options:

• Topical medications: Creams or gels to reduce redness and bumps.
• Oral antibiotics: To control inflammation and treat papules and pustules.
• Oral medications: For severe cases, to target blood vessel dilation.
• Laser and light therapy: To reduce redness and visible blood vessels.
• Other treatments: Depending on symptoms, may include eye drops, skincare products, and lifestyle changes.

Daily Rosacea Management:

• Identify and avoid triggers: Keep a diary to track what worsens your rosacea.
• Gentle skincare: Use mild, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers.
• Sun protection: Wear broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily.
• Stress management: Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress-related flare-ups.
• Diet modifications: Limit spicy foods, alcohol, and hot beverages.

Note: Rosacea is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Book a Consultation to determine the best treatment plan for you.

1. Gentle Skincare Routine:

• Cleansing: Use a mild, fragrance-free, non-abrasive cleanser twice daily. Avoid harsh scrubbing or rubbing.
• Moisturising: Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser to hydrate and protect the skin barrier.
• Sun Protection: Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily, even on cloudy days. Reapply frequently if outdoors for extended periods.
• Makeup: Choose mineral-based, non-comedogenic makeup labelled as suitable for sensitive skin.

2. Identify and Avoid Triggers:

• Food and Drink: Common triggers include spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol (especially red wine), and caffeine. Keep a food diary to track personal triggers.
• Environmental Factors: Sun exposure, extreme temperatures, wind, and stress can worsen rosacea. Protect your skin and practice stress-reducing techniques.
• Skincare Products: Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, menthol, witch hazel, and exfoliating acids.

3. Lifestyle Modifications:

• Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to manage stress-related flare-ups.
• Diet: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce inflammation.
• Exercise: Regular exercise can improve overall health and potentially reduce stress, but avoid overheating and protect your skin from the sun.

4. Complementary Therapies:

• Cool Compresses: Applying cool compresses to the face can help soothe redness and inflammation.
• Aloe Vera: This natural ingredient has anti-inflammatory properties and can be applied topically to soothe the skin.

5. Over-the-Counter Products:

• Gentle Cleansers: Look for products specifically designed for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin.
• Anti-Redness Creams: Some creams containing ingredients like azelaic acid or metronidazole may help reduce redness and inflammation.
• Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ that is fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.