April is Rosacea Awareness Month which is geared to help raise awareness of this widespread yet often misunderstood chronic facial disorder. Rosacea affects approximately 16 millions Americans. Springtime is considered to be rosacea season due to the flareups that the change in weather causes.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that mainly affects the middle third of the face. Rosacea symptoms include flushing, persistent redness, bumps, and visible blood vessels.
Rosacea can affect all segments of the population, individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk.
Rosacea is more commonly diagnosed in women, but men are also affected. It is believed that more severe symptoms are seen in men because they often delay seeking medical help until Rosacea reaches more advanced stages.
Common Rosacea Triggers:
Sun Exposure
Emotional Stress
Hot Weather
Wind
Exercise
Alcohol Consumption
Hot Baths
Spicy Foods
There is no cure for rosacea and the cause is unknown, products are available to control or reverse its signs and symptoms.
“You play an important role in caring for your rosacea. Wash your face with a soap-free cleanser and lukewarm or cold water. Use a non-comedogenic, gentle moisturizer as well as a daily sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.”
- Dr. Mercedes Florez
While medical therapy can address the underlying physical aspects of rosacea, these tips & tricks can help boost your self-confidence when it comes to your physical appearance. Proper use of skincare and cosmetics can help reduce the appearance of Rosacea symptoms.
Clean & Moisturize your Face - Find a cleanser and moisturizer based on your skin type and apply gently without rubbing your skin.
Always use an SPF - Daily use of SPF is essential in any skincare routine but especially so for anyone with Rosacea since sun exposure was named a top trigger in a National Rosacea Society survey.
Spot-Test New Products First - Always test out a new product on your arm to make sure your skin doesn't have an adverse reaction to it.
Choose an Oil-Free Foundation & Concealer - Avoid applying foundation and concealer with your fingertips as that could add unnecessary oil to the face. Use an anti-bacterial brush and always clean your brush between uses.
Mineral Powder Makeup - Mineral makeup is a good choice for those with Rosacea since it does not contain potentially irritating ingredients and helps tone down the look of redness.
Avoid Red Lip Shades - Red lip shades will draw out the redness in your skin. Stick to neutral shades close to your natural color to downplay the redness in your skin.
Are you thinking you might be part of those 16 million Americans who have Rosacea - be proactive in your skin’s health. Schedule an appointment with your dermatologist. If you haven’t seen a medical professional yet and are self-treating your signs and symptoms, consider this April your motivation to seek proper diagnosis and treatment.
Do you have any Rosacea tips & tricks?