OTC Treatments for Rosacea

Rosacea is a condition that causes chronic inflammation of the skin. Affected skin on the face may appear red. Also, red bumps with pus may be present. Rosacea can get progressively worse if left untreated. Most individuals with rosacea experience flare-ups when the skin condition will get worse, followed by periods of time when the skin will improve. In addition to prescription treatments for rosacea, over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are available.

OTC Rosacea Creams

Numerous OTC creams are marketed for the treatment of rosacea. Rosacea Ltd is a nonprescription cream that helps to lessen facial redness by reducing the size of tiny capillaries in the face. It also has ingredients that will help to kill bacteria and viruses present on the face and acts as an anti-inflammatory. Another cream that may help those with rosacea is Vanicream. Prosacea Rosacea Treatment Gel can help to control the redness and bumps caused by rosacea. Individuals with rosacea sometimes need to try these and other creams before they find one that works for them.

Gentle Soaps

Individuals with rosacea should use a non-irritating cleanser such as Cetaphil or Dove. Specifically, the Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Bar is a good choice for those with rosacea because it has no ingredients that might irritate or dry out the skin. According to the International Rosacea Foundation, the Cetaphil cleansing bar is the mildest bar cleanser on the market.

Acne Medications

OTC acne medications may help reduce the facial inflammation and bumps caused by rosacea. Proactiv Solution can help with the inflammation caused by facial blemishes. Other acne medications such as Neutrogena and Clearasil may also be effective.

Cortisone Creams

Individuals with rosacea may get some relief from using OTC hydrocortisone creams that help to reduce inflammation and pain. Cortizone-10 is a common OTC cortisone cream available at most drugstores and grocery stores.

Antibiotic Creams

Antibiotic creams may help reduce the risk of infection for individuals with rosacea. Neosporin is one antibiotic cream that may be helpful. However, prescription-strength antibiotics are often needed.

Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen may help alleviate the symptoms of rosacea. Sunscreen should be worn daily to prevent sunburn. The sunscreen should be at least SPF 15; however, individuals with especially sun-sensitive skin may need to use a sunscreen with a much high SPF.

Irritating Ingredients

According to the International Rosacea Foundation, individuals with rosacea should not use products with any type of acids. They should also avoid products containing retinol or vitamins A and C. In addition, benzoyl peroxide may be irritating to some but may be helpful for others. Benzoyl peroxide is found in many OTC acne treatments.