RESCU: What is Rosacea?
Dr. David Orentreich: Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that is characterised by flushing, blushing and inflammatory acne-like flare-ups most commonly seen on the cheeks, chin, forehead and nose.
As the disease progresses, the redness can become ruddy and persistent. Small, superficial, red “broken” blood vessels usually appear in the above areas. In advanced cases, rosacea can lead to a thickening of skin on the nose (rhinophyma). While rosacea is more common in women, rhinophyma is much more prevalent in men. Severe rosacea can irritate eyes, leaving them watery or bloodshot.
RESCU: What can cause Rosacea?
Dr. David Orentreich: The exact cause of rosacea is still uncertain, although a contributing factor appears to be an increased number of demodex folliculorum, which are microscopic mites inhabiting the oil glands. Rosacea seems to affect adult, fair-skinned people.
RESCU: What are some of the triggers of Rosacea flare-ups?
Dr. David Orentreich: For people who are prone to rosacea, flare-ups can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, alcohol consumption, environment, and activity level.
Severe weather conditions, including cold, windy climates or hot temperatures and exposure to sunlight can cause redness. In fact, heat from a variety of sources, such as a shower, sauna, hot kitchen or other hot environment can cause rosacea flare-ups.
RESCU: Is there a cure? How do you typically treat Rosacea?
Dr. David Orentreich: Rosacea is usually a chronic condition. Although there is no permanent cure for it, its severity can wax and wane, depending upon the time of the year, personal habits, and treatment. Topical and oral antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory ingredients are mainstays in treating rosacea.
RESCU: What recommendations would you give for cleansing, moisture and make-up to a patient that has Rosacea?
Dr. David Orentreich: For patients who have rosacea, I recommend gentle cleansing. Patients can still benefit from exfoliation, especially gentle exfoliation with salicylic acid. Moisturiser should be soothing and non-irritating so that it calms the redness as well as addressing the sensitivity that might accompany the condition. Non-irritating, oil-free make-up is best for people with rosacea.
RESCU: How important is wearing sunscreen if you have Rosacea?
Dr. David Orentreich: If you have a condition that is making your skin irritated and red, such as rosacea, it is even more important to protect with sunscreens. When skin is already inflamed from a pre-existing condition, it is even more sensitive to sunlight.
Sunscreen should be free of irritating chemicals. Moreover, those with rosacea should also avoid sun exposure during the hours of 10am – 2pm.
RESCU What else do you recommend to prevent/avoid further irritation?
Dr. David Orentreich: Redness and skin sensitivity can be caused by several intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsically (i.e. genetically), allergies to specific ingredients can cause reactions. Extrinsic factors causing skin sensitivity include sun exposure, overuse of exfoliants and reactions to an ingredient that acts as an irritant (i.e., if someone uses an overly strong soap it can act as an irritant and cause a reaction such a dry, tight feeling of the skin). The post-‘operative’ effects of procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatment can also increase sensitivity.
To reduce skin sensitivity, avoid sun exposure, weather extremes and products with irritating fragrance or other known irritants. Strong soaps and hot water should be avoided. Use products that are fragrance free, allergy tested, mild and have soothing ingredients.
Alcoholic beverages and spicy foods may cause vasodilatation and exacerbate already red and irritated skin. If consumed in large quantities over time, these may contribute to enlargement of blood vessels. In some individuals, certain foods will trigger an episode of irritation, and should be avoided. If you are affected in this way, be aware of what foods cause redness and consume alcohol in moderation.
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