Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder with an unknown cause that is difficult to treat. The National Rosacea Society (NRS) reports that as many as 14 million Americans may suffer from the condition, with women more affected than men. The symptoms of redness, rashes, enlarged pores, blemishes and enlarged capillaries can make skin ultra-sensitive and lead to burning, stinging and even a worsening of the problem when using most skin care products. The NRS recommends using as few products and ingredients as possible and to choose those designed for sensitive skin.
Cleansers
Although product sensitivity can vary from one person to another, the best cleansers for rosacea are gentle and mild with no perfumes or soaps. New Jersey dermatologist Dr. Coyle S. Connolly recommends over-the-counter cleansers Cetaphil and La Roche-Posay, while noted skin care expert Paula Begoun gives high ratings to Olay foaming face wash for sensitive skin, the B.Kamins Booster Blue Rosacea Cleanser and the Pevonia Botanica Rosacea line. Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash and Aveeno Ultra-Calming Foaming Cleanser are also often recommended by dermatologists.
Toners
In a survey conducted by the NRS, many rosacea sufferers reported that they were unable to use any toner due to the harsh effects from ingredients like fragrances and alcohol. However, for those who can tolerate toners, Dr. Connolly suggests BioClear, which tends to be less drying than most other toners.
Exfoliants
For many rosacea patients, exfoliants aren't well tolerated, although BHA is better than most. BHA contains salicylic acid, a form of aspirin which has anti-inflammatory properties, and appears to be the most effective, according to reports in a 1999 issue of "Dermatology," and in a 2000 edition of "Archives of Dermatology."
Moisturizers
Paula Begoun recommends moisturizers formulated with antioxidants and barrier-protecting ingredients to improve skin function, such as Redness Solutions by Clinique and Boots Extra-Sensitive Hydrating Moisturizers and Serums. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that patients who used a barrier-repair emollient for one year regained a normal flush response and had little or no redness. Moisturizers that also contain anti-inflammatory ingredients such as caffeine, sulfur, sulfacetamide, various antibiotics and natural ingredients such as feverfew, chamomile, green tea and licorice extract are also helpful, according to dermatologist Leslie Baumann, director of the University of Miami's Cosmetic Medicine & Research Institute.
Sunscreens
Sunscreens are particularly important for people with rosacea, for whom sun exposure can trigger flare-ups. Paula Begoun recommends sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher containing the active ingredients of titanium dioxide and/or zinc oxide, such as Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock SPF30. Other sunscreen ingredients are often too harsh for rosacea-affected skin.
Topical Treatments
Prescription topical treatments can help certain patients. The treatments include MetroGel, MetroCream, MetroLotion and Noritate, which all contain the active ingredient metronidazole; Azelex and Finacea, which contain azelaic acid; and Klaron and Plexion, which contain topical sulfur preparations. Some rosacea patients find they are unable to tolerate metronidazole, but an August 2004 article in "The Journal of Dermatology" reported that an alternative treatment of benzoyl peroxide combined with the topical antibiotic erythromycin proved as effective. For the more severe forms of rosacea that include papules and pustules, Differin, which contains adapalene, is often recommended.
