Rosacea is a skin condition affecting more than 16 million Americans, according to the National Rosacea Society. Causing redness, acne-like pustules, or pus-filled lesions on the face, rosacea is a life-long condition that will be episodic, with recycling flare-ups of the disease. Rosacea products that improve skin texture are available, but knowing what to look for in the skin care aisles takes knowledge about what makes the disease activate.
Gentle Cleansers
Rosacea frequently causes red, irritated patches on the forehead, nose, cheeks and chin. Many commercialized products claim they are gentle and good for redness when they may actually increase rosacea symptoms. Finding a gentle cleanser to improve skin texture starts with reading the label of the skin care product. According to the National Rosacea Society, products containing alcohol, witch hazel, menthol and eucalyptus oil are not recommended and can exacerbate the symptoms of rosacea. To find a gentle cleanser, look for words such as "mild," "gentle" and "fragrance-free."
Medicinal Creams
The creams used to treat the inflammation and pustules of rosacea are similar to those used for moderate acne infections. Topical antibiotic preparations and benzoyl peroxides are prescribed to tame the flare-ups and improve the skin texture. In combination with prescription creams, over-the-counter barrier repair creams, which are emollients that keep moisture on the skin and block toxins out, can drastically improve skin texture with repeated use, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Aside from a moisturizer, barrier creams contain a lipid, or fat, to seal the outer skin layer, forming a barrier against environmental irritants. Users must apply medicines prior to sunscreen or make-up.
Sensitive Skin Lotion and Sunblock
Many widely used commercial products will increase rosacea flare-ups and ruin skin texture, even if the label claims to reduce redness. Almost any moisturizing product claiming to exfoliate or tighten the skin will irritate and worsen rosacea. Consumers should look for lotions and sunblocks that are fragrance-free, as perfumes are a caustic ingredient to rosacea. Some lotions are labeled with the term "hypoallergenic"; however, this does not mean allergy or fragrance-free. Do not skip the sunblock; the National Rosacea Society states that 81 percent of rosacea sufferers had rosacea break outs after unprotected sun exposure. Look for lotions labeled for sensitive skin, and consider using combination products with the sunscreen and lotion combined.
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