Rosacea Dos and Don’ts

Rosacea Dos and Don’ts

Posted by Kiri Yanchenko on

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is characterised by persistent redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and bumps on the face. It can also cause eye irritation.

Rosacea can be accompanied by symptoms such as burning or stinging sensations and increased sensitivity to certain triggers like sunlight, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress.

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown but factors, including genetics, abnormal blood vessels, immune system abnormalities, and facial mites, may contribute to its development.

There are several types of rosacea, these include:

  • Subtype one, which involves redness and flushing
  • Subtype two, which includes papules and pustules
  • Subtype three, which involves skin thickening
  • Subtype four, which affects the eyes.

AMPERNA® Rosacea Dos and Donts

While there is no cure for rosacea, it can be managed with various treatment options based on the severity and subtype of the condition. Treatment approaches may include topical medications (e.g., metronidazole, azelaic acid), oral antibiotics, laser or light therapy, and lifestyle modifications. It is important for individuals with rosacea to collaborate with a dermatologist to develop an individualised treatment plan and research the best option to suit your needs.

Rosacea Dos

Sun protection

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. Wear protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses when exposed to sunlight.

Gentle skincare routine

Use mild, non-irritating cleansers, moisturisers, and skincare products. Avoid harsh scrubs, astringents, and abrasive or irritating ingredients that may trigger flare-ups.

Identify and avoid your triggers

Keep a skin journal to track your flare-ups and identify triggers such as certain foods, beverages (e.g., alcohol or hot drinks), weather conditions, stress, or specific skincare products. Once identified, try to avoid, or minimise exposure to these triggers.

AMPERNA® Rosacea Dos and Donts

Stress management

Practice stress management techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or engaging in activities that help you relax.

Rosacea Don'ts

Avoid irritating or harsh products

Products that contain alcohol, fragrance, menthol, or certain acids (such as salicylic acid), can aggravate the skin and trigger flare-ups.

Over wash or scrub your face

Excessive washing or scrubbing can irritate the skin and worsen rosacea symptoms. Gently cleanse your face with cool water and a mild cleanser.

Do not forget to moisturise

Moisturising helps maintain the skin's barrier function and can reduce dryness and irritation associated with rosacea. Choose a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser suitable for sensitive skin.

Do not pick or squeeze your skin

Avoid picking at or squeezing your skin as it can further irritate the skin and lead to potential infection and scarring.

Ingredients that help Rosacea sufferers

Here are some ingredients that have been suggested to have potential benefits for managing rosacea.

Azelaic Acid

This ingredient has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce redness and control breakouts associated with rosacea.

Green Tea Extract

contains polyphenols and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.

Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate redness and improve the skin's barrier function.

Liquorice Extract

Contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce redness and calm the skin.

Aloe Vera

Has soothing properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate skin sensitivity and irritation.

Caffeine

Studies suggest that topical caffeine can help constrict blood vessels and reduce redness associated with rosacea.

AMPERNA® Rosacea Dos and Donts

How your diet and gut health affects your skin

Rosacea is not an autoimmune condition, however there is a link between rosacea to gastrointestinal autoimmune diseases like celiac disease, reflux, SIBO (small intestine bacterial growth) and irritable bowel disease.

Research suggests the gut-skin-axis (the direct relationship between your gut and your skin) plays a significant role in the onset and development of rosacea. Although further studies are still ongoing with how the exact mechanisms are linked, what is for certain is when any aspect of your delicate microbiome is out-of-balance, the health of your entire body can suffer – including the health of your skin.

While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for rosacea sufferers, certain dietary changes may help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Here are general recommendations that may be beneficial.

Avoid trigger foods

Common trigger foods for rosacea include spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, and foods high in histamine. It may be helpful to keep a food diary and identify any specific foods that worsen your symptoms.

Consume Anti-inflammatory foods

Including anti-inflammatory foods in your diet may help reduce inflammation associated with rosacea. These include fruits and vegetables, fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon), healthy fats like olive oil and avocados, whole grains, and nuts.

Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome. Studies suggest that probiotics may have a positive effect on rosacea by improving gut health and reducing inflammation. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

AMPERNA® Rosacea Dos and Donts

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is important for overall skin health. Drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day can help keep your skin hydrated and may reduce the risk of flare-ups.

Blog article author

Written By Kiri Yanchenko

Kiri Yanchenko is the founder and CEO of AMPERNA®. Having had severe pustular acne and perioral dermatitis herself, she has a deep personal understanding of the challenges faced by having problem skin. She has over 10 years of experience in skincare and holistic skin coaching and is passionate about helping everyone feel comfortable in their own skin.

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