Routine for managing rosacea symptoms: Advice and additional insights
The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) offers guidance for individuals with rosacea, a common skin condition characterised by redness, bumps, and swelling. To manage rosacea symptoms, the AAD recommends a gentle, fragrance-free skincare routine [1].
A daily skincare routine for rosacea-prone skin should include a light, fragrance-free cleanser, a moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher [1]. Avoiding harsh cleansers such as exfoliants, astringents, and irritating chemicals is crucial to protect the skin barrier [1].
When it comes to choosing a moisturiser, opt for products containing rosacea-friendly ingredients like aloe vera, ceramides, and niacinamide. These ingredients can help improve dryness, reduce inflammation, and boost the skin's moisture and resilience [2].
In addition to skincare, the AAD advises avoiding triggers such as sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and hot beverages [1][3]. Topical treatments approved by the FDA and commonly recommended include topical metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin, sodium sulfacetamide/sulfur preparations, and encapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream [1][4]. Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or minocycline may be prescribed for moderate to severe inflammation, while alternatives include oral erythromycin and topical metronidazole [1].
Newer topical agents such as brimonidine and oxymetazoline can reduce persistent redness by vasoconstriction, addressing visible blood vessels [1]. Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies may be considered to target redness and visible blood vessels, but their use should be done cautiously, especially in darker skin types, due to variable results and risks like postinflammatory hyperpigmentation [1].
Dermatologist Maria Urbani's IKI Skin Care line embodies principles recommended by the AAD: minimalist, science-backed products featuring soothing ingredients like centella asiatica and colloidal oatmeal, aimed at reducing inflammation without irritation [2].
In summary, the best AAD-recommended rosacea skincare approach includes:
- Gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers
- Daily sunscreen with SPF 30
- Avoidance of triggers (sun, spicy foods, alcohol, stress)
- Use of prescribed topical medicines (metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin)
- Possible oral antibiotics if indicated
- Consideration of laser/IPL therapy under dermatologic supervision
These combined strategies focus on protecting and calming sensitive skin while controlling rosacea symptoms effectively [1][3][4]. It is always important to speak with a healthcare professional before using any new products and to test a product on an area like the neck before using it fully.
- The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) offers guidance for individuals dealing with rosacea, a skin condition marked by redness, bumps, and swelling.
- A suitable skincare routine for rosacea-prone skin involves a mild, fragrance-free cleanser.
- To maintain a daily skincare routine for rosacea-prone skin, a moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher are necessary.
- Harsh cleansers, such as exfoliants and astringents, should be avoided to safeguard the skin barrier in individuals with rosacea.
- Aloe vera, ceramides, and niacinamide are rosacea-friendly ingredients that can be found in moisturizers.
- These rosacea-friendly ingredients promote skin moisture, resilience, and reduction of inflammation.
- Sun exposure is one of the triggers to be avoided when managing rosacea symptoms.
- Spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and hot beverages are other essential triggers to avoid in the context of rosacea management.
- Topical metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin, sodium sulfacetamide/sulfur preparations, and encapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream are FDA-approved treatments often recommended for rosacea.
- Oral antibiotics like doxycycline or minocycline may be prescribed for moderate to severe rosacea inflammation, while alternatives include oral erythromycin and topical metronidazole.
- Brimonidine and oxymetazoline can reduce persistent redness caused by rosacea by addressing visible blood vessels.
- Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapies should be used with caution, especially in darker skin types, due to variable results and potential risks like postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Dermatologist Maria Urbani's IKI Skin Care line follows the recommendations of the AAD, featuring calming ingredients like centella asiatica and colloidal oatmeal.
- The best AAD-recommended approach for rosacea includes gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers, daily sunscreen with SPF 30, and avoidance of triggers.
- Prescribed topical medicines, such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, and ivermectin, should also be utilized in rosacea management.
- Oral antibiotics and alternative treatments may be prescribed if indicated for moderate to severe rosacea inflammation.
- Laser/IPL therapy may be considered under dermatologic supervision to target redness and visible blood vessels.
- These combined strategies aim to protect and calm sensitive skin while effectively managing rosacea symptoms.
- Consulting a healthcare professional is important before using new products and testing them on a small area like the neck before full use.
- Womens Health Magazine recommends CBD oil as a potential alternative treatment for rosacea due to its anti-inflammatory properties [5].
- Neurological disorders can impact mental health, causing anxiety and depression in some patients [6].
- Regular exercise, healthy nutrition, and stress management are critical for maintaining cardiovascular health, which is connected to overall well-being [7].
- Balancing work and home life is essential for workplace wellness, while also managing chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer [8].
- Pets provide companionship, reducing stress and promoting mental health, but it is crucial to consider their care requirements and the potential for allergies [9].