About 14 million Americans suffer from rosacea, and it is a skin problem that affects many more millions worldwide. Rosacea causes facial redness that many people feel detracts from their appearance. Sometimes those who do not understand rosacea avoid contact with those who have it, which can cause social and emotional problems and may even affect an individual’s occupational possibilities. Of course, in some cases it will influence how the rosacea sufferer feels about themselves, which can turn into negative self-esteem and self-confidence issues. So rosacea treatment is important.
Rosacea appears as skin redness on the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. Sometimes it will have a bumpy appearance that resembles acne. Other signs and symptoms of rosacea include watery eyes and inflamed blood vessels on the face.
Completely curing rosacea isn’t possible yet, partly because there’s still some uncertainty in the medical community about the exact cause. Researchers think it may result from a combination of genetic and environmental conditions. However, even though curing rosacea can’t be done, the rosacea creams and rosacea natural treatments mentioned below can, at least, help reduce symptoms and discomfort.
It’s best to talk to your primary care doctor or dermatologist about these treatment options, because this skin problem tends to worsen with time. Rosacea sufferers will be happy to know there are some skin care products for rosacea that your doctor may recommend – but be careful because some over-the-counter skin care products may actually make your skin look worse.
Topical rosacea creams include Metronidazole, which was the first rosacea treatment of its kind and has been available for more than 20 years. Brand name rosacea creams include Metrogel, Metrolotion, Metrocream, and Noritate. A compound named azelaic acid, which is used to treat mild to moderate acne, has also proven to be effective against rosacea. A variety of B vitamins are effective and are available in topical cream form.
Home remedies for rosacea include aloe, apple cider vinegar, burdock and certain pancreatic enzyme supplements. Chamomile and betaine hydrochoride have also shown good results as home remedies for rosacea in the past, as have red clover, rose hips, selenium and zinc.
Light therapy for rosacea is another option. A non-laser type of light known as intense pulsed light or IPL may work with some symptoms, including inflamed veins, redness, and skin thickening on the nose and cheeks.
In addition to the rosacea creams and rosacea natural treatments listed above, you can also make some lifestyle changes that will help. Avoid sunlight, stress, spicy foods, strenuous exercise, hot baths, and corticosteroids as much as you can. Also take note of other conditions or circumstances that seem to cause outbreaks so you can avoid them in the future. It’s also smart to stay away from any known skin irritants.
Work with your primary care physician to formulate a treatment plan and follow it. It’s your best chance to keep the symptoms and effects of this troubling skin condition to a minimum.