Rosacea is a persistent and oftentimes progressive skin condition that causes facial swelling and redness. As many as 14 million Americans have rosacea, according to the American Academy of Dermatology, or AAD. People between ages 30 and 50 are most likely to develop this skin disease. Early signs of rosacea may be a propensity for blushing or flushing. It typically progresses to persistent facial redness that eventually produces acne-like pimples and nodules. A number of products may diminish the symptoms of rosacea.
Metronidazole
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that can treat bacterial infections of the skin and reduce common symptoms of rosacea such as redness and pus-filled bumps, according to the AAD. Topical metronidazole, brand names MetroCream and MetroGel, is the most often prescribed first treatment option for rosacea.
Azaleic Acid
Azelaic acid or Azelex is a newer FDA-approved topical acne treatment that may diminish redness and other symptoms of rosacea, notes the AAD. A study published in 1999 in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology” found azelaic acid to be as effective as topical metronidazole in the treatment of papulopustular, or the classic form of rosacea.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Cleansers, creams, gels and lotions that contain benzoyl peroxide may help reduce the symptoms of rosacea, notes the AAD. Benzoyl peroxide is typically used one or two times per day to fight acne. Start out using it once daily to see how your skin reacts to it. It may take a couple of months of regular use before significant improvement is detected.
Barrier-Repair Emollient
Barrier-repair products have emollient effects that improve the skin's ability to protect and repair itself. Barrier-repair emollients go beyond the effects of a regular moisturizer to help repair the skin. Applying a barrier-repair product twice a day may ease the symptoms of rosacea, as it softens and coats the skin to prevent water loss.
Sunscreens
It's critical for rosacea sufferers to wear sunscreen every day since sun exposure can aggravate the condition, notes the AAD. Look for sunscreens with a sun protection factor, or SPF, of 30 or higher, and ones containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. Avoid products that contains alcohol or fragrance since they may cause skin irritation.
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