Rosacea: Characteristics and Care
What do Bill Clinton, J.P. Morgan, and Mariah Carey all have in common? Well, yes, there’s the fame and wealth, but few people know that three are known to have suffered from the skin condition rosacea. Rosacea prone skin requires special care and treatment, and by learning a little more about the condition you’ll see that rosacea doesn’t have to totally change the way you live your life.
Written by Lisa Powell, Green Health Research Contributor
A woman suffering from rosacea
Characteristics of Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin condition which is characterized by redness of the face, most often this redness is seen on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. Bumps and pimples may also occur in areas where the redness is present, and without treatment over time the nose may grow larger and bumpy in appearance. The condition generally appears after the age of 30, and most often affects women and those of Caucasian descent. The appearance of rosacea may come and go over time, but left untreated the condition usually grows worse.
Rosacea Treatment Options
Rosacea comes and goes, and the events that bring about it appearance are called “triggers.” Common triggers include stress, exposure to the sun, hot weather, and using irritating skin products. Treatment plans are unique to each rosacea sufferer, and are designed by doctors. Plans generally include the use of antibiotics to treat any pimples or skin lesions as well as different medicated creams or ointments that help control redness. It is also generally recommended that rosacea sufferers keep a journal of their flare-ups so that they can identify and then avoid any personal triggers for the condition.
Caring for Skin Affected by Rosacea
There are several steps that you can take to minimize the appearance of rosacea and avoid flare-ups. Using facial products that don’t contain bismuth oxychloride is always a good idea for those with rosacea. Bismuth oxychloride is made from copper, lead, and chlorine byproducts and is what gives certain makeup products their pearlescent sheen. However, it also acts as a trigger for both rosacea and acne, and can cause itching and skin blemishes even in those without any skin conditions.
Besides avoiding bismuth oxychloride, it is important for those with rosacea to use gentle, non-abrasive skin care products and makeup that don’t contain alcohol or fragrances, as these both act as triggers. Using a moisturizer and products with sunscreen is also recommended, as is mineral makeup. Mineral makeup is recommended because most brands don’t contain alcohol or fragrances, and do contain sunscreen. However, just make sure when you’re shopping that you’re buying mineral makeup with bismuth oxychloride so that you don’t accidently purchase a product containing this common irritant and rosacea trigger. With the proper treatment plan, gentle cleansing products, and the right cosmetics, you’ll be well on your way to fewer flare-ups and healthier skin!