April is National Rosacea Awareness Month: Relinquish the Redness

by redentor | Pur News

Millions of American's have rosacea, however according to the National Rosacea Society and a Gallup survey, 78 percent of American's have no knowledge of this condition including how to recognize it or what to do about it. Through understanding the different appearances of Rosacea, as well as some common triggers, individuals can start taking steps in the right direction toward controlling redness. Rosacea typically begins after the age of 30 and is recognized by permanent or occasional redness on the cheeks, nose, chin, or forehead. Additional signs are small visible blood vessels on the face and bumps or pimples on the face.

Lifestyle and the environmental triggers contribute to rosacea. Important triggers to be conscious of are: food & drink, exercise, weather, emotions, and medications. Here are some tips on what to avoid in these different groups of triggers:

• Food & Drink: Avoid food and alcohol that cause you to flush (especially red wine), spicy foods, and hot drinks Avoid high sodium and processed foods. Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, such as fish, fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise: Avoid over exertion, and working out in the heat. Exercise in shorter increments, and if it is warm outside, exercise indoors preferably with a fan or air conditioning. Drink plenty of water during your workout, and afterward cover your face with a cool damp cloth.
• Weather: Sun protection is key! Always wear SPF with UVA/UVB protection, even on cloudy days. When in direct sun wear a hat to protect from the damaging rays.
• Emotional: Rosacea flushing and blushing is common with stressors. Learn how to reduce your stress through breathing techniques, or other de-stressing exercises.
• Medication: If you are concerned that your Rosacea is brought on by medication, discuss other possible options with your doctor.

In addition to lifestyle choices, treatment options to include a skincare regimen using mild cleansers and moisturizers will calm your skin. Prescription topical creams can also be used to reduce inflammation, and laser treatments are effective in reducing redness caused by rosacea. Although there is not a cure for rosacea, it can be controlled through understanding common triggers and treatments to lessen the redness.

Denice Schwind, PA-C has specialized in medical and Cosmetic Dermatology since 2004 and is an industry leader in skin care and anti-aging. Denice will provide monthly expert, unbiased information to you about skin care products, top trends, medical issues and anti-aging advice in her Edmonds skin care and Anti-Aging column with MyEdmondsNews. Feel free to submit questions directly to Denice at [email protected].