Rosacea: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments

April 6, 2023

WHAT IS ROSACEA?

Red, ruddy, flushed skin peppered with visible blood vessels and maybe some bumps to boot. According to the National Rosacea Society, “Rosacea is a chronic disorder of the facial skin with various potential signs and symptoms, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions.” Along with an estimated 16 million Americans, our aesthetics staff sees many clients who suffer from this chronic inflammation of the skin. Read on to learn about the causes, symptoms and treatments for this all too common condition.

WHAT CAUSES ROSACEA?

The exact causes of rosacea are not fully understood. Experts agree it may be caused by a mix of genetics and environmental factors like sun exposure. People of all ages, skin types, tones and shades can be affected.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ROSACEA?

Common symptoms of rosacea include:

Redness or flushing
Small, visible blood vessels
Bumps or pimples

Symptoms can vary from person to person and often overlap with other conditions like oily or dehydrated skin making it hard to tell if it’s just sensitivity, or if you actually have rosacea. A good indicator is the location of visible symptoms as rosacea tends to show up in the center of the face on the cheeks and around the nose.

TREATING ROSACEA

“Rosacea is an ongoing relationship.”
La Suite Skincare founder Rhea Souhleris Grous

While there is no “cure” for rosacea, symptoms and severity can be managed through understanding your unique triggers along with simple lifestyle changes. Common triggers include:

Sun exposure
Emotional Stress
Hot weather
Wind
Heavy exercise
Alcohol consumption
Hot baths or showers
Cold weather
Spicy foods
Humidity
Fried foods
Excess sugar

With sun exposure topping the list, one of the most effective things you can do to ease rosacea is apply a physical broad spectrum SPF daily. Our Sheer Mineral Sunscreen+ SPF 40 contains zinc oxide which not only reflects damaging UV light, it is well tolerated by sensitive skin (zinc oxide is the main ingredient in many a diaper rash cream!).

The relationship between stress and skin is well documented. When we are stressed, our bodies release the stress hormone cortisol, which is linked to inflammation. Sleep is critically important to keep stress levels in check and is also when skin repairs and balances itself. If you’re suffering from rosacea, try including stress-reducing self-care into your day.

Research indicates the possible role of a gut health-skin connection in rosacea. While further research is needed, people with rosacea may be advised on measures to support a healthy gut microbiome, including the consumption of a fiber-rich (prebiotic) diet.

THE BEST FACIALS FOR ROSACEA

Soothing, anti-inflammatory treatments and modalities help calm the skin and reduce redness. Let us help you select the best treatment for your unique needs. Call our Greenwich, CT clinic at 203-861-7338.

FaceTime 90 can be customized to include an exfoliating Cool Peel that targets inflammation along with soothing LED light therapy.
Cryo Collagen Facial uses the power of cold to reduce inflammation.
Reformer Facial includes a corrective peel that targets rosacea and therapeutic infusions which are sent deep into the skin with Ultrasound to help reduce inflammation while strengthening the skin.

THE BEST PRODUCTS FOR ROSACEA

These common skincare ingredients can trigger rosacea:

fragrance
alcohol
camphor
menthol
peppermint
sodium laurel sulfate
urea

Look for calming, anti-inflammatory formulas that help maintain a healthy microbiome.

Check out our full collection of products that target rosacea.

Wondering if you have rosacea and what you can do about it? Book a Virtual Consultation with one of our expert aestheticians and we will create an at-home AM/PM treatment plan personalized for your skin’s unique needs. LEARN MORE