It’s the time of year when redness and sore eyes become a problem due to the harsh conditions of winter that can play havoc on skin.
Understanding rosacea and its symptoms can really help to keep it at bay. Rosacea might start as slight flushing when going from the cold outside to inside in the warm or even runny bloodshot eyes. The condition can have a huge impact on self-confidence – 10% of the population suffer from it and feel they can’t go out without makeup due to the redness.
In a Gallup survey, 70% of rosacea sufferers said the condition lowered their self-esteem, 41% reported that they avoided social engagements and almost 70% said they felt it affected their professional life. In some of the worst cases, 30% said they had even missed work during flare-ups.
The actual cause of rosacea is not fully known and there is no known cure. However, there are actions that can be taken to reduce and control the signs and symptoms. Typically, the onset is noted by flushing of the cheeks and the odd broken capillary on the face. Sadly, many people misconstrue that the sufferer is a heavy drinker, which very often causes embarrassment.
What are the symptoms of rosacea?
Suffers may experience one or more of the following symptoms:
There are varying degrees of rosacea, however, these can be summarised in the following categories:
It is typical to experience symptoms across the sub-types; these symptoms may also progressively get worse, so early diagnosis and treatment is of paramount importance. Several theories have been put forward as to the cause, one is that the sebaceous glands may be infected with a skin mite, Demodex folliculorum. However, in skin biopsies, the mite was only present in one in five rosacea sufferers.
The condition has also been linked to mercury fillings and infection of the stomach, Helicobacter pylori. It is thought rosacea maybe be caused by problems with the immune system as it targets antibodies against certain sebaceous glands. It may be any one of these triggers or a combination of them that gives rise to the onset of rosacea. Personally, I find if I eliminate sugars and yeast from my diet then my skin is much healthier.
Action plan to treat rosacea
Your doctor may recommend a low dose antibiotic (tetracycline) to reduce symptoms, there are other things that you can try. It is important though that you consult a doctor if you start to get rosacea in your eyelids, it’s called blepharitis. It’s characterised by itchy, red eyes a little similar to conjunctivitis.
How you can help reduce the aggravation of rosacea
How diet and lifestyle affect rosacea breakouts
Most rosacea sufferers have dehydrated skin, drink plenty of water. Keep your body thermostat cool, sip cold drinks and do not have excessively hot baths.
Avoid stimulants, alcohol, spicy foods, cigarettes, and caffeine. Alcohol in particular dilates the blood vessels to make them more visible. It is vital to wear a sunblock with an SPF of 30 or apply a product with zinc or titanium oxide to protect the skin.
Keep a diary and make a note of any trigger factors. Dairy, yeast and sugar can be contributors to rosacea.
Rejuvenated Supplements
H3O Hydration and H3O Night Repair both contain powerful anti-inflammatory and are excellent for hydration levels.
Collagen Shots have been found to reduce the severity of rosacea as it strengthens connective tissue and acai berry is believed to increase the strength of vascular walls.
Rejuvenated Skin Perfecting Complex has been formulated to help with rosacea, acne and eczema. It has a host of skin calming ingredients to soothe and reduce irritation.
Which top skincare products to help rosacea?
What treatments will help rosacea?
Ellipse IPL will target red skin cells and blood capillaries. By exposing vascular lesions to the short pulses of light the heat coagulates the broken blood vessels which are dispersed naturally by the body. IPL gives a good reduction in general redness and is successful with individual broken capillaries.
LED Lights are specially designed to create chemical reactions within the skin tissue. The great thing is they are pain-free and a series of treatments can reduce redness and inflammation. Results continue to improve over a 6-month period. Suggested equipment: Light Fusion Facial in Salon and FaceLITE for home
TTC Natural Enzyme Peel - This ultimate adaptive treatment is an enzyme-based all-natural skin peel.
This masque’s dual-action helps to treats dead skin cells, comedones, blackheads, acne and rosacea which will assist in keeping your skin looking its best. It will also help to nourish, restore and deeply hydrate – a unique combination that is essential to achieving ideal skin.
Head to our online shop to browse the products mentioned and don’t hesitate to get in touch for tailored advice on how to combat the appearance of rosacea.