Zinc Sunscreen For Rosacea

The facial rash and skin redness associated with rosacea can cause discomfort and embarrassment in the 16 million or more adults in the United States who are diagnosed with the disease. Rosacea is a complicated and poorly understood skin condition, so controlling its chronic flare ups and progression with prescription and over-the-counter products is key to improving the quality of life for rosacea sufferers.

Rosacea Causes

In addition to the primary rosacea symptom of skin redness on the cheeks and chin, subtypes are associated with skin thickening, acne-like bumps or eye irritation. Rosacea is not genetic and occurs only in adults, most often in women older than 30 years of age. The skin disorder likely has multiple causes, including blood vessel swelling and bacterial infection on the skin.

Rosacea Triggers

Rosacea is a long-term disease with repeated flare-ups that often worsen with time, particularly without adequate treatment. One common factor among all rosacea sufferers and all subtypes is the presence of distinct triggers of a flare. Although individuals may have specific triggers, numerous environmental and physical factors reliably worsen rosacea symptoms. Sun exposure, heat from the sun or from spicy foods, acidic foods, wind and cold air, humidity and alcohol are some common triggers.

Skin Benefits of Zinc

Zinc oxide is a type of barrier sunscreen---a product that directly blocks UV rays from reaching the skin. Zinc is not absorbed into the skin and is generally nonirritating to skin rashes or acne. These attributes suggest that zinc is safe to use in rosacea and may prevent flare ups associated with direct sunlight. In addition, zinc itself is mildly antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. An important treatment of rosacea can be a topical antibacterial agent like metronidazole; it is possible that zinc sunscreen could provide similar benefits, although studies have not confirmed such an effect.

Cautions

Although zinc itself is not irritating to the skin, many cosmetic or skin care products can be triggers of rosacea flares. Zinc sunscreens contain additional active and inactive ingredients. Rosacea sufferers should review ingredient lists to find an effective and safe sunscreen.