Steps to Effectively Control Rosacea

Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha) is a common but poorly understood disorder of the facial skin that is estimated to affect well over 14 million Americans. Rosacea causes redness and pimples on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. The redness may come and go. People sometimes call rosacea "adult acne" because it can cause outbreaks that look like acne. It can also cause burning and soreness in the eyes and eyelids. While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure, there are treatments that can control the signs and symptoms of this disorder. Only a doctor can diagnose rosacea, but an esthetician can help you to control it.

Steps to effectively control rosacea: 

• Improve Desquamation (shedding of the outer layers of the skin): This can be done through gentle exfoliating treatments that will remove surface build-up without causing irritation and increasing cell turnover.


• Control inflammation and redness: The daily care regimen should be customized to include anti-inflammatory ingredients that will combat redness and discomfort. Topical ingredients that are effective in reducing the appearance of redness are often anti-inflammatory agents that have an effect on microcapillary function. Many work by interrupting the inflammatory process.


• Control Excessive Dryness: Products must contain humectant ingredients to draw moisture to the epidermis and occlusive ingredients to hold it in.


• Decrease Possible Bacterial Factors: Utilizing products containing multifaceted ingredients, such as salicylic and azelaic acids, will help to control both bacteria and inflammation. It is important to avoid more aggressive antibacterial agents such as benzoyl peroxide, which may cause further inflammation.


• Protect from UV exposure: Everyone should be using a broad-spectrum SPF of 15 or greater every day on any exposed skin. Studies suggest that the inflammation associated with chronic photo damage significantly contributes to roacea. If the skin is exposed to UV rays on a daily basis this will lead to an increase in the production of nitric oxide and other free radicals within the skin cells. An increased production of these offenders can lead to vasodilation and broken capillaries. You should always use products that offer protection from long an short wave UVA rays as well as UVB rays. Always allow sun protection to absorb 20 minutes before to exposure. Reapply after two hours of sun exposure and repeat every two hours as needed.