5 Things You Need to Know About Preventing Rosacea

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1. Preventing Rosacea is About Avoiding Flare-Ups

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that is very common worldwide. Because there is no cure, preventing rosacea flare-ups is the best defense. Rosacea often appears on the nose first with small blood vessels that dilate, but the redness can spread. Many people dismiss the symptoms in their early stages due to a lack of rosacea awareness. Because the area affected by rosacea is where blushing occurs, some people think it's just that. Rosacea can present with what looks like pimples, and it can affect the eyes.

2. Lifestyle Changes for a Healthier You

For people with rosacea, anything that causes your face to flush is the enemy. Rosacea skin care is crucial to preventing flare-ups. Some things you can't do anything about, such as the flushing that occurs in some menopausal women. However, you can avoid many other triggers that cause flushing. Examples are smoking, spicy food and alcohol. In addition, avoiding the sun and extreme temperatures will help. Be mindful of moisturizers, sunscreens, soaps and hairsprays. Avoid any that contain alcohol. However, you should always apply a sunscreen before going outside to avoid exposure to sunlight. Be gentle when applying anything to your face because vigorous rubbing makes your face redder.

3. Preventing Rosacea Flare-Ups Through Treatments

Rosacea treatments are available, but there is no cure for the skin disorder. It is best to treat the symptoms early because they often become worse over time. Your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic, such as tetracycline, and/or a topical antibiotic, especially if you also have acne. To reduce inflammation, your doctor may prescribe a topical steroid. Laser treatments are effective against the redness, flushing and spider veins that are prominent features of a rosacea skin condition. All of these treatments make the use of a daily sunscreen even more important because the treatments can cause photosensitivity. Find a doctor who is experienced to apply laser treatments, and know that it may take more than one treatment.

4. Sun and Genetics Most Likely Causes

Some people have a genetic predisposition to rosacea. In these individuals, they are prone to developing the spider veins associated with rosacea and redness from sun exposure. People who have fair skin are more likely to develop the skin disorder. However, the sun is probably the main culprit in developing rosacea. Dermatologists advise that people should wear sunscreen 365 days a year. After years of exposure to the sun, rosacea can result. It develops most commonly in people between 30 and 50.

5. Keep it Under Control

By preventing rosacea flare-ups, you can keep the disorder in check. If you allow the symptoms to go without any changes in lifestyle or treatments, it will get worse. Apply any topical medications daily, even if your symptoms have gone away. See a doctor if you suspect you have rosacea.

About this Author

Kathy Crawford is an experienced writer on a variety of health and fitness topics for publications such as the St. Joseph News-Press and The Landmark. She is an avid martial artist who practices tai chi and earned a first-degree black belt in tae kwon do before changing to karate, where she holds the rank of third-degree black belt.

Last updated on: 11/18/09

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