There are so many varying skin types and conditions that mould the way we look after our skin and even affect the way we feel about ourselves and our confidence levels. Rosacea is one of those skin concerns that are more difficult to hide. This is due to the area (the face) where rosacea is more aggressive and prominent. If you wonder what rosacea is or are looking for a way to treat this condition, read on to view all the facts you need to know.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin condition that affects the blood vessels in your skin. These blood vessels are visible on the surface of the skin. Rosacea can usually be seen within the cheek, chin, nose and forehead areas of the face. In addition to blood vessels, flushing in the face may become apparent as well as small pus-filled lumps that can appear as a result of this skin condition.
Rosacea is not always a constant concern. Like other skin conditions such as perioral dermatitis, rosacea can flare up for multiple days or weeks before calming down and even disappearing for a varying period of time.
Does it go away?
As mentioned before, this skin condition is likely to have flare-ups. This means that although it is an ongoing condition, it may not always be visible or apparent. Irritations such as weather or temperature can come into play when experiencing a flare-up. However, everyone has different triggers for their rosacea and so it may take some time to figure out how to deal with yours. Unfortunately, the root cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure for this condition. But the good news is that there are treatments that can soothe rosacea and help to reduce the effects of flare-ups.
What to avoid
Because there are multiple ways that rosacea can be triggered, the way to treat and take preventative measures will vary per person. But let us take a look at the most common things you can do to help keep your rosacea flare-ups at bay if these are one of your triggers:
Sun- Unfortunately for summer lovers, if you have rosacea- the sun can be a key trigger in causing a flare-up. To stop this from happening, be sure to use an adequate sun protection spray or cream and wear a brimmed hat that will protect your face from UV rays.
Heat- Avoid taking hot baths or showers and rather opt for warm ones instead. Sitting too close to open fires or radiators/heaters can also be a trigger. Make sure you have effective cooling measures in place- whether this may be a fan in the summer or using a cold compress on your neck if overheated.
Alcohol- Being one of the most common causes of a rosacea outbreak, stronger alcohol can have lasting effects. Consider taking your favourite beverages watered down or weakened with soft drinks. Wine, specifically red wine is thought to be one of the most triggering.
Spicy food- Still enjoy your favourite dishes! But try to eat foods that won’t cause you to sweat or overheat. Enjoy your favourite flavours in milder versions.
Skin and hair care products- Carefully select daily products that are created for more sensitive skin types. Hypoallergenic or unscented products are extremely helpful in preventing flare-ups and breakouts of many skin conditions. Try to avoid products that contain harsher or less natural ingredients.
How to treat rosacea
Although it can not be cured you can improve the appearance of rosacea with specific treatments that target the capillaries. Calming facials and treatments range, and are treated after examining your particular case. Results may vary depending on the severity of your skin condition, but at The Dorchester Clinic, we have experts on hand to give you advice and guide you to a treatment that will be able to target your skin type and condition.
If you are suffering from rosacea, you can book your consultation appointment with us today at The Dorchester Clinic.