Rosacea

 

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that causes facial flushing and redness, acne-like bumps, eye irritation, and/or thickening skin. It is marked by periods of flares where symptoms are present and periods of remission, where symptoms are mild or nonexistent. This condition also goes more than skin deep. More than 90 percent of people with rosacea say their condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and that they have avoided public contact or canceled social engagements because of rosacea. There is also a growing body of evidence that links rosacea to potentially serious systemic diseases, according to the National Rosacea Society.

 

Who Gets Rosacea?

More than 16 million Americans live with rosacea, according to the National Rosacea Society. Almost anyone can develop rosacea, but it is more common among individuals with fair skin who flush and blush easily. It’s also more common in women and may be linked to genetics.

 

How Is Rosacea Treated?

The exact causes of rosacea are largely unknown, and there is no actual cure. Treatment begins with avoiding any flare triggers.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, common rosacea triggers may include:

• Extreme heat
• Stress
• Sunlight
• Alcohol, especially red wine
• Spicy foods
• Some skin and hair care products
• Some makeup
• Wind and cold
• Some medicines
• Exercise

Experts suggest keeping a symptom diary to get a better idea about what causes your rosacea to flare. Triggers can differ from person to person.

Sun protection is a vital component of any rosacea prevention plan. Seek shade, wear protective clothing, and regularly apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

Other treatments target specific symptoms of rosacea.

 

Redness

There are several topical therapies that reduce facial redness, including Mirvaso (Brimonidine gel) and Rhofade (oxymetazoline hydrochloride cream). These prescription medications work for up to 12 hours.

Vascular lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) are also effective at treating the redness of rosacea.

Another tip: Green-tinted makeup can help to camouflage redness.

 

Bumps and pimples

Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline, or erythromycin can help clear up acne-like bumps. Topical treatments for bumps and pimples may include:

• Azelaic acid
• Ivermectin anti-parasitic medication
• Metronidazole
• Sulfacetamide/Sulphur
• Clindamycin
• Retinoids

 

Thick skin

Topical retinoids in combination with isotretinoin, oral antibiotics, and lasers are typically used to treat skin that has thickened due to rosacea. Sometimes, your doctor may suggest surgery to shave off excess tissue.

 

Nashville, TN dermatologist Natalie M. Curcio, MD, MPH: “Don’t scrub your skin when cleansing as this can cause rosacea to flare, and always choose mild skincare products. Don’t forget to apply your broad-spectrum sunscreen – even on cloudy days.”

 

 

When Can I Start My DefenAge Homecare Program?

A good home skincare regimen can help keep rosacea flares at bay. This includes a moisturizer like DefenAge 24/7 Barrier Balance Cream that create a barrier that keeps irritants out. Follow with DefenAge 8-in-1 BioSerum to revive your skin’s natural moisture. This serum won’t irritate skin, making it a great option for patients with sensitive skin or rosacea.

 

NOTE: Always consult a medical and/or skincare professional to learn more about rosacea and how to treat it before applying any products to your skin.