How to Lessen Rosacea
Rosacea is an incurable, inflammatory, adult skin disorder that targets the face. It produces red patches of skin; pustules (bumps containing pus) on the cheeks, chin, forehead and nose; rhinophyma (a bulbous red nose); and visible blood vessels on the cheeks and nose called telangiectasia. Half of sufferers also develop ocular rosacea, a subtype of the condition that causes redness, inflammation and sensations of burning and grittiness in the eyes and eyelids. Because rosacea rarely goes away independently and often becomes worse if ignored, it is essential to take measures to reduce symptoms properly and continually.
Instructions
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Consult a doctor for recommendations about treatment and prescription medications that can help reduce rosacea. Some recommendations may include which cleansers, moisturizers and sunscreens to use, as well as changes in lifestyle that may reduce rosacea flare ups.
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Ask your doctor if a surgical procedure like electrosurgery or laser surgery may reduce your symptoms. Both treatment strategies can improve your facial appearance by making large blood vessels less visible and removing bulky tissue that has accumulated around the nose.
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Implement lifestyle changes that reduce the signs of rosacea such as: using facial products that are clearly identified as noncomedogenic to lessen the risk of clogged pores; avoiding alcohol consumption and the use of products that contain alcohol; making sure that prescribed topical treatments have dried before applying moisturizer; and, concealing red skin by applying special makeup formulated with a green or yellow tint.
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Protect your face from potentially irritating weather and environmental conditions. Cover it with a ski mask or scarf in the winter, and wear sunscreen labeled SPF 15 or higher to reduce sun exposure when outdoors during any season. When inside, avoid room temperatures that are too high.
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Avoid putting your hands on your face unless you are cleaning it, or, applying cosmetic products or medication. Touching the skin on your face can irritate it and exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
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Tips & Warnings
Be wary of using alternative treatments to reduce rosacea symptoms such as vitamin K, colloidal silver, laurelwood, or, emu or oregano oil. There is no scientific proof that any of these methods are effective.
