Skin care tips for rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by flushing of the face, redness, and spots. It often affects the face particularly nose, chin, cheeks, and forehead. Other symptoms like eye-irritation, sensitivity to sunlight and acne-like bumps may also occur in some people. Those who develop rosacea must avoid the use of harsh facial cleansers and cosmetics as they worsen the symptoms. It is essential to avoid factors that trigger the development of rosacea. Choosing appropriate skin care products and taking the right measures can control the occurrence of rosacea to a great extent. Persons with a lighter skin tone are more susceptible to develop rosacea compared to the rest.

Some factors that can aggravate the occurrence of rosacea by increasing blood flow to the surface of the skin include alcohol, caffeine, spicy food, hot drinks, sunlight, stress, anger, hypertension, corticosteroids, extreme temperatures, humidity, saunas, cold, fever, etc.

The diagnosis of rosacea is performed by examining the skin type of patient and enquiring about medical history, symptoms, and triggers. The appearance of enlarged blood vessels will help the physician distinguish rosacea from other skin problems.

There is no cure for rosacea, but there are treatment measures which will relieve its symptoms. Certain medications along with a revised good lifestyle promise improvement.

Following are a few skin care tips for controlling Rosacea symptoms

• Understand your rosacea triggers as it differs from person to person. Try to avoid those triggers that will cause a rosacea flare-up. In case you notice a flare up, try taking a cold shower.
• Avoid using scrubs and exfoliators that will dry out your skin and increase redness.
• Use a mild good quality moisturizer to soothe the sensitive skin. Moisturizing cream is an ideal option as the lotions as may contain alcohol base which will affect the skin.
• Stop using hot water for bath, instead use mild warm water.
• Treat your skin gently. Do not rub your face while cleansing and avid using sponges for cleaning your face.
• Avoid exposure to sun. If stepping out, use sunscreen lotion with high SPF and ingredients such as titanium or zinc oxide. The sunscreens should ideally be fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
• Choose mineral based make-up without fragrances as they are less likely to irritate the skin.
• To control the flare ups apply green tea extracts or ice packs on face.
• Consult a dermatologist if symptoms are severe.