Solutions for Rosacea: Management, Treatments, and How to Keep Your Skin Calm
If you’re living with rosacea, you know how frustrating symptoms can be. Rosacea can be uncomfortable–even painful–and impact confidence. April is rosacea month, and we’re shedding light on the triggers, symptoms, and effective solutions for rosacea that everyone should know about. Let’s explore options to keep your skin calm, and carry on.
Do I have rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder which can include symptoms like flushing, redness, bumpy skin, thick skin, visible veins or blood vessels, and outbreaks that look similar to acne. In more severe cases, rosacea can cause rhinophyma (a bumpy red nose). Some people experience ocular rosacea which can cause irritated, dry, swollen red eyes. If you’re noticing these symptoms, you could have rosacea. If you’re prone to sunburns, have a history of smoking, are in between 30-50, or have a family member with rosacea, you’re more likely to have symptoms arise.
What triggers rosacea?
Rosacea triggers vary from person to person, but can include any of the below:
- Extreme hot and cold temperatures
- Spicy foods
- Exercise
- Stress
- Sweating
- Certain irritants like cosmetics or hair products
- Blood pressure medications
- Alcohol
- Hot drinks
- Fragrances
And to coffee lovers, while it was once believed that coffee and caffeine exacerbate rosacea, we know now that the temperature of the beverage was what caused flare ups.
How can I manage rosacea and treat my symptoms?
Treatment for rosacea depends on the type and severity of the symptoms you’re experiencing. For some people, limiting triggers can be an effective way to manage rosacea. By avoiding alcohol and wearing mineral sunscreen, those with milder rosacea might easily manage their symptoms. There is a well-understood correlation with rosacea symptoms and sun exposure; sun protection and avoidance is emphasized as a leading recommendation for the ongoing care of rosacea. But for many of us, triggers abound and management is challenging.
Treatment options for rosacea
Your dermatologist may recommend medications like topical ivermectin or metronidazole to target inflammation. Oral medications may be recommended, like a daily dose of a tetracycline group antibiotic. To find out whether any of these treatments may be right for you, speak with your dermatologist.
How should I care for my skin with rosacea?
Be gentle with your skin: treat rosacea-prone skin kindly. A gentle daily routine can help prevent flare-ups. We recommend mild skin cleansers that are fragrance free, labeled for sensitive skin, and free of alcohol and astringents. Use a calming moisturizer without irritants or fragrances support your skin’s moisture barrier. Some studies also demonstrate a correlation between rosacea relief and Vitamin C. A mineral with high SPF (30 or higher) is also recommended daily.
Helpful hint: If you’re trying a new product, test it out on the inner arm to see how your skin responds. If you have rosacea, this can be a great way to ensure your skin responds positively.
Find more tips to take care of sensitive skin here!
Is there a way to cure rosacea?
Rosacea is a progressive skin condition, and is as specific and personal as each individual’s unique skin. Effective management can greatly improve your experience with rosacea, yet the solutions that work for your skin will be different from your neighbour. We recommend consulting with a dermatologist for a comprehensive skin examination. We offer treatment solutions and skincare regimens that combat redness at its source, and restore a calm, even complexion.
Vascular Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment
Vascular laser and IPL photorejuvenation target blood vessels that contribute to rosacea. These treatments improve redness and may even slow the progression of rosacea over time.
How long does it take to see rosacea results from IPL?
It can take weeks or months to see results from IPL treatment, since the skin’s collagen formation, revascularization, and cell turnover processes take time. But most patients notice an improvement in skin tone, redness, and texture within the weeks following each treatment.
Ask us to create a personalized 360° treatment plan unique to you
Discover what’s possible with a consultation at Humphrey & Beleznay Cosmetic Dermatology.
