How to Get Treatment for Rosacea

Rosacea affects nearly 14 million people in the U.S. This skin condition causes redness and pimple like bumps across the nose, cheeks and chin. Famous rosacea sufferers include W.C. Fields, former President Bill Clinton and the late Princess Diana. Rosacea symptoms do not appear until after the age of 30 and can be so severe they cause psychological distress and extreme embarrassment to the affected person. Although it cannot be cured, you can effectively treat rosacea and maintain a healthy complexion.

Instructions

Avoiding Triggers

1. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. The number one trigger for most rosacea patients is the sun.

2. Protect yourself from temperature extremes (indoors and out) and from the wind. These environmental factors can trigger a rosacea flare up.

3. Stay away from very spicy foods, hot beverages and alcohol. These often cause facial flushing that can irritate your condition.

4. Choose skin care products that do not contain ingredients such as salicylic acid or fruit acids. Products designed to "peel" the skin often make rosacea symptoms worse.

Self Care

1. Exercise for short periods in well ventilated, cool areas. Many rosacea patients find that exercising for 15 minutes at a time minimizes facial flushing and helps control symptoms.

2. Wash your face only with mild cleansers such as Cetaphil or Phisoderm Baby Cleanser.

3. Avoid scrubbing the face with any type of loofah or brush. A soft washcloth is okay. Men should shave with electric razors only, never a blade.

4. Moisturize with a gentle lotion or cream. Look for products that include comfrey or chamomile to ease the redness.

5. Wear a sunscreen everyday of the year with an SPF of 15 or higher.

Medical Treatments

1. Follow the antibiotic regimen prescribed by your dermatologist. They don't know why antibiotics help, but a course of tetracyclene is commonly used to bring severe rosacea flares under control.

2. Apply any prescribed topical lotions or creams everyday as directed. Continue using the product even when your rosacea symptoms are under control.

3. Consult with your dermatologist about laser treatments if you have developed visible blood vessels, extreme red patches or irregular bumps around the nose. Lasers are an effective means to reduce these symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Women can use makeup to help minimize the appearance of rosacea symptoms.

• Emotional stress can trigger a rosacea flare up.