Natural Rosacea Treatments

Overview

Rosacea is a skin disorder of the face that affects more than 14 million Americans. According to the National Rosacea Society, the condition is characterized by redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead, visible blood vessels on the face, bumps or pimples and irritated eyes. People with rosacea sometimes miss social activities because of lowered self-confidence and self-esteem brought about by the condition.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases states that rosacea mostly affects menopausal women, people with fair skin and adults between the ages of 30 and 60. Men with rosacea commonly have rhinophyma, which is a red, enlarged nose.
There are numerous medical and natural treatments for rosacea, but there is no cure. Dermatologists can help diagnose and treat rosacea.

Lifestyle Changes

The National Rosacea Society recommends "identifying and avoiding lifestyle and environmental factors that may trigger flare-ups or aggravate their individual conditions." Triggers vary by individual, but include exposure to sun or wind, emotional stress, hot or cold weather, consumption of alcohol, exercise, skin cleansers and makeup, and spicy foods. Rosacea sufferers can keep their symptoms mild naturally by limiting or avoiding these factors.

Vitamins and Minerals

In "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," James and Phyllis Balch recommend vitamins A, B complex, E and zinc. Vitamin A helps skin heal. The B complex vitamins help keep skin healthy. Vitamin E protects against free-radical damage and zinc helps repair tissues.

Supplements

Kelp, flaxseed oil, L-Cysteine, lecithin, proteolytic enzymes, chlorophyll and selenium are also recommended in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Kelp provides minerals needed for skin tone, flaxseed oil provides essential fatty acids, lecithin aids in the absorption of the fatty acids and selenium is an antioxidant. L-Cysteine is an amino acid that contains sulfur, which is needed for healthy skin. Chlorophyll helps cleanse blood and prevent infections.

Herbs

Aloe vera, alfalfa, burdock root, milk thistle, dandelion root, fennel seed and ginger may also help rosacea sufferers, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing."

Skin Care and Cosmetics

Many skin care products and cosmetics irritate the sensitive skin of people with rosacea. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" recommends using a mild, natural soap with lukearm water, and to pat the skin dry instead of rubbing. It also recommends all-natural, water-based makeup.

Benefits

Benefits of natural rosacea treatments include keeping symptoms under control, which can lead to a healthier social life and greater self-confidence and self-esteem. If using natural rosacea treatments, a patient will most likely not have to resort to using topical steroids or antibiotics.