Identifying and Addressing Rosacea

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Does your face blush easily and stay that way? Could this be Rosacea? A rosy complexion untreated manifests in disruptive flare-ups. Rosacea impacts over 16 million Americans, and many who have this skin condition don’t even know it!

Rosacea sounds like roh-ZAY-sha. The appearance is in the form of a flushed or red-faced complexion and may be warm to the touch. At times it may present as acne or insect-like bumps. Weighing on self-confidence, this rosy complexion can make you feel pretty blue. The psychological, social, and occupational impact can have adverse consequences.

The sooner the condition is identified the better flare ups can be managed and prevented and the brakes can be put on the progression of undesirable symptoms.

Symptoms include:

  • Redness on cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead
  • Small visible blood vessels on the face
  • Bumps or pimples on the face
  • Watery or irritated eyes

If you think you may have Rosacea, make an appointment with a dermatologist or knowledgeable esthetician/skin care therapist. You can learn routine care to better manage your symptoms and living with flare ups. In many cases medication may be advised.  

Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Use a mild cleanser (non-soap) with your fingertips to sooth and treat your skin, 2x a day.
  • Avoid rough exfoliants, brushes, loofas or anything abrasive (also avoid fabric softeners and rough towels)
  • Use lukewarm water and cotton pads/towel when washing. Be gentle. Do not rub, tug, or pull on your delicate skin
  • Allow skin to air dry between applications of moisturizer (containing hyaluronic acid) and/or medications
  • Daytime sun protection is a must for any skin but critical for those who are managing Rosacea (sun exposure is the #1 trigger for flare-ups)
  • Adhering to the advised treatment plan when not symptomatic will be necessary to avoid progression and symptoms of rosacea

Top 12 Triggers:

  • Sun exposure
  • Emotional stress
  • Hot weather
  • Wind
  • Heavy exercise
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Hot baths
  • Cold weather
  • Spicy foods
  • Humidity
  • Indoor hear
  • Certain skin care products and cosmetics


Identify your triggers.
Documenting your patterns will assist in identifying triggers in your routine. This can be done in a journal or calendar. Note the weather, consumption of food and beverage, physical activity, emotions, products, and adherence to skin care routine.


Fortunately, there are many at-home and professional treatment options to manage Rosacea symptoms. In addition, reasonable lifestyle modifications will reduce flareups. Keeping track of treatment and lifestyle choices will effectively identify your triggers. People with Rosacea can have a beautiful complexion so don’t hesitate to get care! The sooner the better.
 

Shannon Downey