Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting millions of individuals. It presents a varied spectrum of skin redness, skin breakouts (pimples and pus bumps), blotchiness, sensitivity, irritation, uneven texture and tone in the central part of the face. It mostly appears in middle age women but can occur earlier and in all genders and races.
Rosacea is caused by internal (genetic, hormonal) and external environmental skin stressors (1). The most common triggers for rosacea flares are sun exposure (UV light), extreme temperatures (heat and cold), irritating skin care (etc, harsh exfoliants and potent active ingredients such as retinoids, potent AHAs, mechanical scrubs, fragrances, and certain chemical sunscreens) as well as aggressive skin procedures (etc, dermabrasion, strong chemical peels). Certain lifestyle choices also negatively impact rosacea: hot spicy or strongly flavored foods, significant alcohol consumption and smoking as well as chronic emotional stress.
So what is the best way to manage Rosacea?
A Holistic Approach with Nutrition
Holistic approach where we combine prevention, traditional medical treatments and alternative therapies can be the ultimate win-win for rosacea patients. Healthy lifestyle modification where moderation of above triggers is the long-term solution for rosacea. Anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of whole-grain complex carbohydrates, fibrous and antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables as well as balancing omega-infused fats is beneficial for rosacea (2). Since rosacea is strongly related to gut health, certain GI-microbe balancing and anti-inflammatory supplements have anecdotal scientific evidence to improve rosacea (such as probiotics, omega fatty acids, vitamin D). A food diary and nutritionist can further assist in identifying rosacea related skin-gut connection.
The Best Skincare for Rosacea
It’s important to understand that individuals with rosacea generally have sensitive skin with a very vulnerable skin barrier which requires precise care. So hydrating, gentle facial cleansers and make-up removers are more appropriate, such as Cerave, Bioderma and Neutrogena. Exfoliating skin toners are too irritating for persons with rosacea, yet calming and cooling skin mists can reduce skin stinging, burning and redness are better for skin balance, for example Avene and Stamina Cosmetics. Regular use of physical or mineral sunscreens (etc. La Roche Posay and EltaMD) is critical to prevent rosacea flares.
Strengthening and moisturizing skin barrier twice daily is crucial to enhance skin resilience in rosacea, etc. Vanicream and Cetaphil. There are many effective over-the-counter topical treatments for rosacea. Some efficacious rosacea ingredients include: azelaic acid, sulfur, niacinamide, gotu kola, curcumin, aloe, green tea and others (3).
Our Stamina Intentional Moisturizer is an anti-stress multitasker for rosacea, because it repairs skin barrier, hydrates the skin and soothes skin redness and inflammation. It contains a unique blend of natural and clean skin adaptogens (etc. gotu kola, curcumin, aloe, green tea, and niacinamide) to help to offset rosacea skin stress. This antioxidant and antimicrobial Stamina®️ Complex helps to protect, balance and renew skin. Our skin adaptogens are refined skin signal conductors which orchestrate a beautiful skin radiance symphony.
However if you are struggling with rosacea, it's best to consult your local dermatologist for your personalized skin care. Dermatologists can offer an array of medical grade skin care, prescription topical and oral medications and laser treatments which can have significant improvement in rosacea.
Being Cognizant of Psychological Stress
Psychological stress is another important aggressor of rosacea (4). Currently, we often live very driven, tech-connected and multi-tasking lives: nurturing our family, friends, working multiple jobs, side projects and purposeful services in the community. It is not surprising that we often feel stressed and our skin mirrors this stress story. If your skin is rosacea-prone, this is your vulnerable red flag (no pun intended 😖), and you need to pay attention. If your skin is flaring red, and our skin is connected to the rest of our mind-body, you can only imagine what is happening to the rest. So consider managing rosacea as a whole, not in isolation. Furthermore, because rosacea is evident on the face, and related to skin flushing during emotional situations and exercise, it can have a major impact on individuals’ social and emotional wellbeing. This harmful effect on self-esteem creates a vicious negative mental stress cycle.
Practicing Mindfulness to Reduce Stressed Skin
Mindfulness is a great remedy to reduce this harmful stress-skin loop (5) and overall wellness. Self-reflection, 4-7-8 breathwork, visualization, affirmations, and gratitude practice are various ways to integrate mindful therapy as part of healing rosacea. You can further habit stack these healthy lifestyle habits by combining them with integrative skin care, check out our mindful approach to a skin care ritual, Stamina®️Synergy. Consider adding this guided meditation daily as part of your stress-resistant rosacea care to anchor skin stamina.
Additional Resources for Rosacea
In addition, thank you for personal development leaders like Jamie Kern Lima, who inspire us to destigmatize rosacea and other skin conditions. Rosacea support groups, for example, National Rosacea Society, are also helpful for more guidance and to embrace the rosacea community. Our connection with others can foster physical, emotional and social wellbeing.
Continue following us for more healthy #DoseofStamina and Skin Stamina Tips and remember, YOU GOT THIS 💪!
Be Well,
Dr. MBK, Founder of Stamina Cosmetics
Co-Founder of Precision Skin and Body Institute
References:
- https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34819228/
- https://www.dovepress.com/getfile.php?fileID=90203
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20467395/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29771216/]
*** Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice on this website and is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related recommendations. The statements made about specific products are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease nor to be considered as a substitute for personal advice from a healthcare professional.