For some, this time of year means more sunshine and outdoor activity. Many people will then deal with a resulting sunburn or tan. Sometimes, however, the inflammation is more than just a sunburn. Commonly, this condition is known as rosacea.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease that happens when your immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, usually around the center areas of the face. If that sounds scary, don’t be alarmed! It is a common affliction that is easily managed. Distinct from acne, it currently affects around 14 million people in the United States alone.
People experiencing rosacea may see redness radiating out from the center area of the face, broken capillaries visible from the surface, or uneven skin tone or texture.
Who Gets Rosacea?
Women and men in their 30’s and older have an increased chance of experiencing rosacea. People with rosacea in their family medical history are also more likely to experience this inflammatory disease. Though it is more common in certain groups, anyone of any age can experience rosacea.
While women are more likely to get rosacea, men are more likely to experience more moderate rosacea than women.
What Causes Rosacea?
No one is exactly sure what causes rosacea, but certain triggers are known to make it worse. Some common rosacea triggers include:
- Exposure to sunlight
- Heat
- Wind and cold temperatures
- Stress
- Alcohol (especially red wine)
- Spicy food
- Certain skin/hair products
- Some makeup products
- Certain medications
- Exercise
Can Rosacea Be Cured?
There is no cure for rosacea, but it can be managed effectively and most people see no severe medical problems associated with the disease.
Stress is one of the leading causes of rosacea flares. Make sure to get enough sleep and set healthy boundaries within your relationships. Consider working mild daily exercise into your routine. Walking and other low-impact exercises have been shown to relieve stress.
As with almost anything else, make sure you are drinking enough water. The standard rule of thumb is 8 glasses of water a day, but actual hydration needs may vary depending on age, weight, and physical exertion. If you find it difficult to work water into your routine, consider spicing it up with slices of cucumber, lemon, or mint leaves.
What Products Should I Use To Wash My Face If I Have Rosacea?
Often, skincare practices can soothe and nourish dry and inflamed skin due to rosacea. Avoid products that have alcohol, like harsh toners. Soaps that contain menthol may further irritate rosacea inflicted skin. Most importantly, ensuring that your skin is well hydrated with a good moisturizer that is free of allergens and irritants is vital because of dry skin often experienced by those with rosacea.
A good broad spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen should be a part of everyone’s skin care plan, but especially for people with rosacea, as overexposure to the sun may especially harm rosacea-prone skin.
When it comes to skin brushing, avoid harsh brushes and opt for softer bristles in order to avoid unnecessary irritation to the skin.
How Can I Treat My Rosacea?
For patients with rosacea, a new treatment known as photodynamic therapy or PDT, specifically red light PDT has been shown to be effective in treating rosacea symptoms. This process works by first layering the skin with a solution that makes it more sensitive to light, and then treating it with light therapy. Patients experience a more even skin tone and improvements to their complexion.
Microneedling is also an effective treatment for rosacea, since it generates new skin tissue and creates brighter, more even-toned skin.
Rosacea is a very manageable condition and there’s no reason you have to let it stop you from feeling and looking your best. Talk with a professional today about what skincare options are available!
PURE Medispa is the only medical spa in Northeastern Pennsylvania owned and operated by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Our estheticians have years of experience treating rosacea using microneedling and red light therapy. Want to know if one of these procedures is right for you? Our talented staff are more than happy to give you a free evaluation! PURE Medi-Spa Scot McKenna, MD, and his highly experienced team provide a wide array of professional esthetic treatments beyond rosacea treatment, including Hydrafacial, injectables and much more! Get in touch with us at (570)-941-8460 today!
