If you suffer from rosacea you will recognize that your skin is very sensitive and easily irritated. You will probably find it better for your skin to use specially formulated rosacea skin care products that are non-irritating and won’t make the symptoms worse. If you find a preparation causes a burning or stinging feeling stop using it.
Some sufferers of rosacea have found that some products containing menthol, peppermint oil, salicylic acid or eucalyptus oil have resulted in soreness of their skin so you should be extremely cautious if you buy a preparation that contains these ingredients and use a tiny test amount first.
Rosacea sufferers are very often more hypersensitive to the rays of the sun which may cause outbreaks. Always use a good quality sunscreen even on cloudy days for maximum protection. A sunscreen containing titanium dioxide or zinc can be used as these ingredients will not inflame the skin.
Some Treatments for Rosacea
It is important, if you have rosacea symptoms, that you consult a dermatologist or other medical practitioner who is able to prescribe a treatment to suit your skin. The most common therapy prescribed is a course of oral antibiotics which is followed by topical medicines, in the form of lotions or creams, which help to control the condition in the long term. They lessen inflammation which helps to clear up the redness that is present in rosacea and can prevent flare ups.
The medications applied to the skin boost the antibiotics effect and improve long term control. Some drugs commonly prescribed are azaleic acid, sodium sulfacetamide and metronidazole.
For sufferers who fail to respond to these treatments or whose rosacea is severe with disfigurement, there are some other options. Laser therapy can be used to heal the visible blood vessels on the skin, dermabrasion may be used or even plastic surgery.
Dermabrasion is a procedure that removes the skin’s top layer which leaves it smoother and clearer. For sufferers who have skin thickening, particularly in the vicinity of the nose, one option is plastic surgery which will repair areas that have been damaged severely.
Ingredients Used in Rosacea Skin Care Products
Once the condition is under control, over the counter skin care products can be used successfully. Specially formulated rosacea skin care products are available that are mild and non irritating, contain ingredients that have been found to be valuable for sufferers of rosacea and have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial actions.
Some ingredients that have been shown to be helpful include Vitamin K and Willowherb. Willowherb has been used for a long time for treating inflammation and burns and is excellent for lessening the redness resulting from by rosacea. Vitamin K is essential for blood vessel health and helps to heal damaged capillaries in the face.
Bio Maple is another ingredient that has been reported to be helpful in lessening skin blemishes and redness and helps to prevent the growth of bacteria. Bio Maple is extracted from maple trees and has a pH comparable to that of skin.
Cosmetics
Women should also take care when they select cosmetics. Heavy cosmetics will probably clog up the pores in the skin and trap oil, which will encourage the bacterial growth. A light, oil free, non-comodogenic (does not clog pores) cosmetics should be used.
Conclusion
While rosacea is a painful and upsetting condition it can be treated successfully. As well as using topical medicines, looking after the skin and being careful of the preparations you use on your face, will result in a marked improvement.
For more helpful information on rosacea visit Choosing Rosacea Skin Care Preparations
