Did you know it’s Rosacea Awareness Month?
With Rosacea Awareness Month in full swing, we reckon you might like some intel on this very common, but often very disruptive skin condition. So consider this your fact sheet: we’ll explain what rosacea is, typical triggers and the best products to treat it.
Sensitive skin can be particularly susceptible to temperature variations, with Rosacea the most common skin complaint developing as a result.
Very cold weather interspersed with blasts of hot, dry central heating can wreak havoc on rosacea-prone skin and can cause flare-ups.
Equally, humid and sunny weather can also be a trigger – understanding what causes your skin to react is the key in controlling your rosacea.
WHAT IS ROSACEA?
Rosacea is a condition that causes blood vessels to enlarge, giving a flushed appearance to the upper cheeks and nose.
Symptoms include redness, dilated capillaries and, in some cases, small hard spots. Unlike with acne, the skin doesn’t appear more oily or greasy, and blackheads or scarring don’t tend to feature.
Rosacea is most common in women over the age of 30 and – as if you didn’t already have enough on your plate – the condition can also develop during pregnancy. There’s also some evidence to suggest it may be hereditary, but it isn’t contagious.
ROSACEA TRIGGERS – WHAT TO AVOID
Rosacea-prone skin is particularly susceptible to changes in temperature. So if it’s very cold, try protecting your face with a large scarf. If it’s hot and sunny, stick to the shade.
These are the most common (and annoyingly, also some of the most enjoyable) lifestyle triggers for rosacea:
- Caffeine
- Spicy food
- Alcohol
- Sunlight
According to the National Rosacea Society, certain skincare products can aggravate the condition – you might find our list of the top ingredients to avoid if you have rosacea helpful to peruse too.
Like many conditions, rosacea is also triggered by stress. Although it’s easier said than done, try to lower your stress levels with daily meditation or relaxation. It is also a good idea to keep a diary of what causes your rosacea to flare up each day or week, to help identify patterns and triggers specific to you.
BEST PRODUCTS FOR ROSACEA
Many over-the-counter and prescription rosacea treatments and creams contain the irritant Benzoyl Peroxide, which is definitely worth giving a wide berth as it may exacerbate symptoms.
Instead, stick to soothing and strengthening actives like Chamomile and Rosehip. Rosehip is a fantastic skin healer and strengthener. While Chamomile contains azulene, a natural anti-inflammatory which will cool and calm any flushing during a flare-up.
Diet is also important when dealing with all skin allergies and rosacea is no exception.
Try to increase your intake of Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3, 6 & 9) as these help to calm and condition the skin from the inside. Oily fish, seeds and nuts are all good sources, as are supplements like a high-grade flaxseed, hemp or fish oil.
Pycnogenol, or pine bark extract, is also believed to be a good natural remedy for Rosacea as it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Remember if you’ve got any questions at all about your own skin, or aren’t sure what the right products or routine are for you, we offer a free 30-minute skin consultation service. Book yours on paiskincare.com now.