Care for Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin condition that affects the face. This condition is sometimes referred to as "adult acne." However, unlike acne, blackheads won't form in the affected area. Red and swollen areas will form on the face and are usually accompanied by papules or puss-filled pockets. Rosacea is a condition that often gets worse as time progresses. It isn't curable, but it is possible to minimize the risk of a flare up.

Trigger Journal

Spicy foods, sun exposure, stress and temperature extremes may trigger rosacea; however, triggers vary from one person to another. Keeping a journal that outlines your daily activities and your daily diet can clue you in on what triggers your rosacea. When you begin to have flushing or full flare ups, note it in your journal. As time progresses, you will be able to determine some of your triggers. Once you figure out your triggers, you can try to avoid or minimize the triggers in your life.

Facial Products

Facial products that don't contain alcohol are an important part of a facial care regime for a person with rosacea. These products should include a gentle facial cleaner, sunscreen and noncomedogenic moisturizers. If you wear makeup, these products should also be noncomedogenic. Apply sunscreen frequently, especially when you will be in the sun. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends reapplying 15 or higher SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen every two hours for rosacea sufferers. It further recommends that facial products be applied gently---without massaging, rubbing or scrubbing the skin.

Medications

Often, your doctor will prescribe oral and/or topical antibiotics to help treat your rosacea. Your doctor may prescribe other medications, such as topical ointments containing benzoyl peroxide. Severe cases of rosacea may be treated using the oral medication isotretinoin. If the rosacea affects the eyes, your doctor may prescribe sterile eye drops. If you are using topical medications and would like to moisturize or use other topical products, ask your doctor if you can use the products together. If they can, apply the topical medication first and allow it to completely dry before applying the moisturizer or other product. In cases where medications don't control the symptoms of rosacea, laser surgery or electrosurgery may be required.