Does your face flush for no apparent reason? Do your cheeks take on a ruddy appearance? Can you see tiny, red spider veins across your face? If you can relate to these symptoms, you may have rosacea.
More than 14 million people in the U.S. are living with the frustrating skin disorder of rosacea. Some people may only experience mild, intermittent facial redness, while others may have more severe and persistent symptoms that include extreme redness, pimples and broken capillaries, and thickened, rough skin. Although there is a not a clear-cut answer to the cause of rosacea and there is no cure, there are ways to manage it by avoiding certain triggers and implementing an appropriate skin care regimen.
Rosacea Triggers
Extreme temperatures: Strong winds, intense heat and cold temperatures all wreak havoc on the sensitive skin of rosacea patients. Minimize exposure during the cold winter months with a scarf to protect your face when outdoors. Always apply a medical grade moisturizer for sensitive skin daily to protect against dryness. Excessive heat indoors from fireplaces and stoves is known to cause flare-ups as well. Be sure to check your thermostat and avoid saunas and hot baths.
Sun exposure: Even mild to moderate sun exposure is enough to cause an outbreak of rosacea symptoms. Never forget to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. A wide-brimmed hat can provide coverage for your face as well, and is recommended in combination with sunscreen for extra protection.
Alcohol: It has been well documented that alcohol dehydrates the skin and exacerbates certain skin conditions. Recently, the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology conducted a study to find out how alcohol influences the development of blotchy red skin conditions. Alcohol depletes the skin of antioxidants and can cause the blood vessels to dilate, which severely aggravates the symptoms of rosacea.
Spicy food: Top trigger foods include hot sauce, tomatoes, wine, citrus based dishes, marinated meat, and chocolate. These items were among the top rosacea triggers reported in a recent survey on foods and beverages by the National Rosacea Society.
Rosacea Treatment
Laser Away Redness: Laser treatments are ideal for eliminating facial veins and minimizing overall facial redness, while ensuring that no damage is caused to the surrounding skin tissue. Dr. Jenny utilizes the 1064 YAG long pulsed laser to target these veins and destroy their blood flow to the superficial vein. The result is a clearer and more even complexion. There is minimal downtime associated with this laser treatment and in many cases, the veins targeted disappear immediately. Treatments can be repeated every 6 weeks if necessary.
Home Care: The products you use at home play a crucial role in the health of your skin and implementing a daily skin care regimen is the best way to protect the investment of your in-office skin care treatments. When the proper products are being utilized at home, results of your in-office treatment are enhanced and last longer. Rejuvaphyl® Redness Recovery by MDRejuvena is an ideal product to include in your regimen. This oil-free treatment gel uses a proprietary blend of ingredients, including the patented Phytochromatic MD® Complex, which is clinically shown to reduce the appearance of visible redness while evening skin tone.
