
3 Vital Tips for Treating Rosacea Symptoms
In the US alone, there are millions of individuals struggling with sensitive skin, highly susceptible to issues like redness and rosacea – one of the least known skin conditions around, yet one of the most common. According to Rye dermatologist, Dr. Eric Treiber, it isn’t just the patients who aren’t well-versed in rosacea, it’s the healthcare community as well. The fact is that while rosacea is almost as common as conditions like acne, very little is actually understood about the condition. Facts that are well-known about lesser conditions, like the root cause, and even the cure, seem to escape the dermatology world when it comes to rosacea. Despite the lack of concrete knowledge, they do have their theories. According to Rye dermatologist, Dr. Eric Treiber, those individuals with rosacea will also experience increased levels of inflammatory proteins known as cathelicidins within the skin. These proteins are thought to be a contributory factor of redness, dilated vessels, and inflammatory bumps or blemishes. In theory, science does point towards rosacea having a genetic element to it as well – as it does run in families. Other factors that might contribute to rosacea outbreak are environment and lifestyle habits. The lack of knowledge on rosacea does seem to have an effect when it comes to treatment of the condition – because there is no sure-fire cure, skincare companies and dermatologists can often make claims as to their products or treatments as being methods to alleviate rosacea. This can make it difficult on patients to separate the real from the fake. There are however some sure fire ways to help reduce the presence of symptoms.
Sunscreen is Your Friend – Tons of it!Like any other skincare professional,Rye dermatologist, Dr. Eric Treiber is a big believer in the power of sunscreen. Even though rosacea is not completely understood yet, scientists are sure that sun damage does play a key role in aggravating symptoms and causing it to spread. Sunscreen will help protect the skin as a whole, and allowing it to fight off rosacea breakouts before they start.
Use Skincare Products to Help Bolster the SkinMany individuals with sensitive, rosacea-prone skin will often avoid using certain skincare products, especially those with strong, active-ingredients like retinols or AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids). But the truth is, using the right products, in the right concentrations can help you to fight off rosacea and make your skin stronger throughout the day. Some products to consider include:
- Antioxidant Vitamin C Serums – Help correct damage from free-radicals and detoxify the skin. Helps you to regulate and remove toxins from the skin.
- Retinols – While retinols can be tough on your sensitive skin, it can help you deal with rosacea issues if used correctly. Start slow – low concentrations only once or twice a week, and gradually build-up every few weeks or so. With help you build your skin up over time and regulate blood vessels.
- Acne Creams – Try not to use these every day, unless you absolutely need to, as they will irritate and cause rosacea to worsen. Try using them as a spot treatment and they may prove to be effective.
- AHA’s – When it comes to hydroxy acids, use the same gradual build up we previously recommended. Rye dermatologist, Dr. Eric Treiber, recommends patients use the lowest acids first and take up to a year to build up to stronger ones. Even then, don’t go too strong, but definitely be aware of the effects it has on your skin.
The fact is that we all have skincare triggers, and things tend to cause flare-ups, acne issues, and rosacea problems. For some people its stress for others its drinking alcohol, dairy, or sugary sodas. Find out what causes issues for you and take note of it. Whenever you have a flare-up, think about all that you consumed, any products you used, and any activities – one or more might have caused your rosacea flare-up.
For more information on rosacea, or to schedule a skincare consultation, contact Dr. Eric Treiber at Treiber Dermatology today.