Redness, irritation, and swelling are just some of the most prevalent symptoms of rosacea. When you have rosacea symptoms, you may look everywhere for relief. Since rosacea is a chronic condition, it requires ongoing management.
Understanding more about this condition and what strategies can effectively manage it can help you find long-term relief from your rosacea symptoms.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is one of the most common skin conditions in the world, affecting more than 14 million people in the United States alone. It is a chronic dermatological issue that can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Redness
- Visible blood vessels
- Patches on the central part of the face
- Tender, hot skin
- Small pus-filled bumps
- Skin irritation
- Dry eyes
- Swollen, irritated eyelids
- Enlarged nose
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it has been linked to a large variety of factors, such as immune disorders, environmental triggers, genetics, and medication use. Aging and hormonal fluctuations may also play a role, as many cases of rosacea are found in women over the age of 30.
10 Tips for Managing Rosacea
If you have been diagnosed with rosacea, it is important that you establish a treatment routine to manage your symptoms. Left untreated, rosacea can cause severe redness, scarring, and discomfort. Consider these ten tips for managing rosacea symptoms:
1. Find a Good Skincare Specialist
The first step in managing rosacea is finding a quality skincare specialist. Your skincare provider can examine your skin and help you develop an ongoing management plan that controls your rosacea symptoms.
2. Figure Out Your Triggers
Rosacea triggers can vary from person to person. Some people experience rosacea flare-ups due to certain fabrics, skincare products, or environmental factors. Knowing what sets your skin off will help you avoid these triggers and keep symptoms at bay.
3. Develop a Skincare Routine
Developing a proper skincare routine will make it much easier to control your rosacea symptoms. Keeping your skin healthy and symptom-free relies on regular cleansing, moisturizing, and overall protection. It is important that you adhere to a routine without lapsing, as this can cause a flare-up.
4. Use Gentle Cleansers
Those with rosacea should always use mild cleansers with gentle ingredients. Face washes with strong soaps, harsh acids, or intense fragrances can exacerbate rosacea symptoms. Choose cleansers that have soothing ingredients and are fragrance-free.
When you have rosacea, cleansing your face should be done in a specific way. Following these steps will help minimize any irritation and promote healthier skin overall:
- Apply the cleanser with your fingertips in a circular motion
- Massage into the skin for at least 30 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water
- Pat your skin gently with a clean cotton cloth or towel
Rinsing the skin is the most important step when washing your face with rosacea. If you do not rinse completely, any soap that is left on the skin can lead to irritation and itching.
5. Moisturize Daily
Rosacea symptoms are often increased when your skin is dry. To keep your skin hydrated and comfortable, make sure to moisturize every day with a nourishing cream or lotion. You should moisturize your skin after each wash.
6. Wear Sunscreen
Excessive sun exposure and sunburns can lead to rosacea flare-ups or increased symptoms. To reduce the risk of sunburn, make sure that you wear sunscreen every day. Your sunscreen should contain SPF 30 or higher to provide adequate protection.
7. Look for Rosacea-Friendly Products
When developing your skincare routine, look for products that are rosacea-friendly. These will be gentle, non-irritating products that are free of the following ingredients:
- Alcohol
- Camphor
- Fragrance
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- Glycolic acid
- Menthol
- Lactic acid
- Urea
These ingredients are common triggers for people with rosacea. Make sure to avoid skincare products that contain high amounts of any of these ingredients.
Some people with rosacea find that all-natural products are the most comfortable for their skin, as these are often free of the most irritating chemicals and ingredients.
8. Test New Skincare Products Before Use
When you add a new skincare product to your routine, always test it on a small area of your skin before using it on your face.
Take a small amount of the product and use it on the inside of your wrist. Allow it to sit for several seconds to minutes to see if it causes any burning, redness, or other adverse effects. This is important for ensuring that each new product is safe to use on your skin.
9. Avoid Perfumes and Scented Detergents
For some people with rosacea, fragrance is a major trigger. If you find that fragrance sets off your symptoms, avoid perfumes, scented detergents, and soaps with strong scents. Opt for “sensitive skin” products and those that are fragrance-free.
10. Check Cosmetic Ingredients
Sometimes, makeup can act as a trigger for rosacea. This is especially true for foundations and concealers that contain strong fragrances or dyes.
When buying any new cosmetics, always check the ingredients to make sure that they will not trigger your rosacea symptoms. Also, perform a spot test on the inside of your wrist before applying a new makeup product to your facial skin.
Getting Professional Rosacea Treatment
If you are struggling with symptoms of rosacea, getting quality treatment is essential. At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, our skincare specialists provide rosacea treatment, as well as treatments for many other common skin concerns.
To learn more about rosacea symptoms and how they can be treated, visit our blog today.
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