What are the Scalp Treatments for Rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition where redness and pimples form on the face, arms and scalp at an alarming rate. Although many of rosacea's symptoms are purely superficial in nature (they won't cause pain or other more serious conditions to occur), some of them can progress to the point where every day is a struggle. And even the superficial symptoms can be overwhelming for those who have to cope with it on a daily basis.

Anti-Inflammatories

The best way to control outbreaks of rosacea is through the use of anti-inflammatory ointments. For rosacea on the scalp, it isn't always practical to try and rub creams and ointments through the hair. For this reason, a mild medicated shampoo such as Nizoral is recommended. Oral antibiotics are also a good solution for those people with rosacea affecting the scalp.

Papulopustular

Some forms of rosacea comprise an outbreak of pimples that are filled with pus. When this is a part of the scalp, it can make even shampooing or brushing your hair a difficult and painful chore. In these instances, doctors will often prescribe a regimen of mild shampoos together with oral medication. There has been some success using acne medication with rosacea patients, but the verdict is still split.

Isotretinoin

When rosacea of the scalp takes a phymatous turn (meaning the skin turns thick and bumpy and the pores are enlarged), some doctors will put the patient on isotretinoin, if it is caught in the early stages. This can retard its progress. This form of rosacea is more commonly seen around the nose, but it can affect other parts of the face and scalp. Isotretinoin is sold under the brand name Accutane.

General Scalp Care

It is recommended that rosacea patients avoid shampoos and other scalp cleansers and medications that include alcohol or abrasives of any sort. These things can clog up the pores and make a bad situation worse. Using mild, natural ingredients with a minimum of perfumes and synthetic ingredients can help in avoiding major outbreaks.

Prevention/Solution

The most important things for rosacea sufferers to keep in mind are the triggers that cause an outbreak. Then go about avoiding these triggers as often as possible. Sun exposure, alcohol consumption and stress are all common triggers. Almost all rosacea patients have extraordinary sensitivity to sunlight, so they should use a good sunscreen and wear hats as often as possible when out in the sun. Minimizing stress, eating well, staying cool and hydrated, and limiting stimulants and alcohol are all good ways of keeping scalp rosacea under control.