Rosacea: Treating Recurring Redness
A common symptom of rosacea is a recurring redness on the face. Without treatment, the redness can become more frequent and eventually become permanent. Fortunately, there are effective treatments for the redness that can reduce its appearance and slow down its progress. Let’s look at a few of the more common treatments.
Protecting Your Skin from the Sun
Exposure to the sun will trigger redness associated with rosacea. Protecting your skin from the sun will help you avoid flare-ups and keep redness away. Here are common recommendations:
- Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day. This will help protect your skin from sun damage.
- Avoid the sun when possible. If you need to go out, try to do it in the early morning or late afternoon, avoiding the midday sun.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when going outside. This will help shade the face even if you have to step out into the sun.
- Stay in the shade. When you are outside, seek a shady spot. Under a tree, under an umbrella, or on the shaded porch are just a few ideas.
Being Gentle with Your Skin Care
Using pressure or harsh cleansers can contribute to redness. You need a skin care routine that is gentle. This can include:
- Use gentle cleansers, as recommended by your dermatologist.
- Use your fingertips to apply the cleanser to the face. Use the minimum amount of pressure necessary.
- Rinse your face with cool water. Hot water can draw the redness up.
- Pat the face dry with a soft towel. Don’t wipe the face or rub it with the towel.
There are a few things you should not do as part of your skin care routine. This includes:
- Do not use toners or other astringents
- Do not use a washcloth
- Do not use soaps with fragrances
Avoiding Your Rosacea Triggers
Rosacea flare-ups bring up redness. It’s important to know what triggers your rosacea and avoid these triggers whenever possible. It can be helpful to keep a journal of lifestyle, habits, and diet to pinpoint your possible triggers. Your dermatologist can help you assess them and recommend ways to adjust.
Laser Treatments
When redness is a persistent issue, laser treatments are a good option for clearing the skin. This is especially true when blood vessels are visible or the redness is constantly present. Laser treatments can reduce the appearance of the blood vessels with a few regular treatment sessions. In some cases, the treatments can clear the redness completely.
Prescription Medications
Two prescription medications often recommended for rosacea are brimonidine gel and oxymetazoline hydrochloride cream. These reduce redness of the skin for up to 12 hours. The redness will return as the medication wears off. Both of these medications have undergone clinical trials which demonstrate their effectiveness and safety.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are experiencing redness related to your rosacea, the first step to take is to talk with your dermatologist. Here at the Fargo Center for Dermatology, Dr. Rachel Ness, offers her expertise in rosacea and laser treatments to help you achieve clear, radiant skin. Call our Fargo office or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment today.