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Tips for controlling rosacea

Have you ever wondered if you might have rosacea?  Common symptoms include easy facial flushing, often worsened by triggers such as exercise, temperature changes, sun exposure, stress and/or alcohol ingestion.  Over time, the redness can worsen in intensity, frequency and extent. Numerous small red blood vessels on the cheeks or nose may become apparent.  Red pimple-like bumps may also occur.  The cause is unknown, and while there is no cure, there are strategies to help control the problem.

Use a good skin care regime

• Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Use your fingertips and avoid scrubbing.
• Hydrate your skin daily with a facial moisturizer
• Wear at least an SPF 30 sunscreen every day
• Avoid harsh skin care products containing acids or alcohol

Identify and avoid your triggers

The list of specific triggers varies from patient to patient.  Heat, wind, cold, stress and alcohol are the most common culprits.  Here are a few tips to avoid these triggers:

• Keep cool while exercising, near a fan or in an air-conditioned space if possible.  Splashing cold water or applying an ice pack to your skin following your workout can also be helpful.
• Protect your face from wind and cold by wearing a mask or scarf.
• Reduce the effects of stress with relaxation activities such as meditation or tai chi.
• Observe the effect of alcohol.  White wine tends to be less problematic than red wine.  Limit your intake to 1-2 drinks a day or avoid alcohol altogether.

For a more complete list of rosacea triggers, visit the American Academy of Dermatology website.

Seek care from a dermatologist

• Many creams and cleansers, available by prescription, can significantly reduce redness and acne-like lesions.  Common ingredients include metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin and sodium sulfacetamide.
• For more severe or resistant cases, oral medications such as antibiotics or isotretinoin can be effective.
• Light based treatments, particularly laser therapy, is a very safe and effective method for toning down redness.

For those struggling with rosacea, help is available!  Come in to SkinCare Physicians and one of skilled dermatologists would be happy to customize a skin care regimen specifically for you.

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