Vascular stars on the face, flushing of the cheeks, inflammation, and pustules are just a brief list of symptoms of a condition with the sophisticated name “rosacea.”
What is “Rosacea”?
Rosacea is a persistent expansion of blood vessels on the face. Initially, it is subtle and temporary, but over time it becomes a constant redness on the skin of the face. Its other name is “rosy acne” because, if left untreated, inflammatory elements and pustules appear on the skin.
Why Does “Rosacea” Occur?
One of the main reasons is heredity and genetics. Various external and internal factors also play a significant role. They trigger the onset of the disease, contribute to its manifestation, and worsen its course. When exposed to trigger factors, the superficially located blood vessels on the face react by expanding. Initially, this expansion is temporary but eventually becomes persistent.
Internal factors that provoke rosacea include stomach diseases, high blood pressure, hormone imbalances, and pregnancy.
External factors include improper diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, visiting hot baths or saunas, taking hot showers or baths, prolonged exposure to cold and wind, using aggressive cosmetic products, and poorly selected cosmetics.
An exacerbating factor in the development of rosacea is the presence of the Demodex mite. Its active reproduction on the skin can provoke an outbreak or worsen the course of the disease.
What Measures of Prevention and Control for Rosacea Exist?
Initially, you should analyze what may be a triggering factor for your situation and try to eliminate it as much as possible.
Keep a diary and note what triggers your condition. This will help you identify the culprit more easily.
You need to choose the gentlest and most delicate skin care routine: wash your face with room temperature water, avoid physical exfoliation methods (scrubs, peeling, brushes, massaging, steaming the face, etc.), and replace them with chemical ones, such as enzyme peels. Your cosmetic line should be for sensitive skin or skin prone to redness and rosacea. Components like arnica, witch hazel, vitamin C, vitamin K, aloe vera, etc., may be included.
Protect yourself from the sun. Sunscreen is essential for people with rosacea. Use products with maximum protection factors SPF 35+/50+.
Avoid hot food. All food and drinks should be consumed at a warm temperature. Limit spicy, salty, and acidic foods, and observe how you react to citrus and chocolate. Exclude champagne and other heavily carbonated drinks, as well as red wine.
Limit visits to hot baths or saunas. If you can’t avoid them completely, use a wet, cold towel on your face when visiting. Avoid sudden temperature changes, such as contrast washing, rubbing with ice cubes, washing with hot water, etc.
Minimize stress as much as possible!
Never attempt to treat rosacea on your own with hormonal creams and ointments. This is a direct path to complications.
Consult a dermatologist, and together you will achieve the desired results.