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Posted by on 2014-05-05 15:07:13
Although an estimated 16 million Americans suffer from rosacea, most of them aren't aware of it. Here's a quick guide to rosacea, and what your skin care can do to help
The Symptoms:
Rosacea is a chronic and progressive vascular disorder that can affect the cheeks, nose, chin, eyes, forehead and can be seen on other parts of the body as well. Here are some common features established as a classification system for the diagnosis of rosacea by the National Rosacea Society USA:
- Frequent and severe flushing
- Persistent facial redness
- Swelling of the nose and cheeks
- Extremely dry, scaly skin
- Papules/pustules without blackheads
Rosacea.org cites the chairman of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr John Wolf, who says "The earliest signs of rosacea are often overlooked because people assume they are temporary and will go away". Think you're experiencing these symptoms? See your physician for a diagnosis and begin treatment.
The Treatment:
Targeting and treating rosacea early-on can keep it from getting worse. In addition to seeing a dermatologist to identify treatment options, The American Academy of Dermatology recommends following a skin care plan to keep rosacea under control. But according to a survey conducted by the National Rosacea Society, 41% of participants said that certain skin care products aggravated their skin. So, where can you begin to find products that are effective, yet gentle? Read on for my step-by-step suggestions, and hear about what Bioelements skin care users have to say about them.
Your Skin Care Routine:
Step 1: Cleanse
What you should use: A mild cleanser. Those with rosacea can have a more sensitive stratum corneum - the top layer of skin we see when we look at ourselves in the mirror, and the primary layer of the epidermis affected by our daily skin care. Choosing mild, gentle products will help minimise irritation and calm skin.
Product must-have: Bioelements Sensitive Skin Cleanser. Dermatologist and clinically tested to be non-irritating this olive-oil based cleanser will keep skin clean without stripping it of natural, essential oil. Used in conjunction with the rest of Bioelements Sensitive Skin line, at-home skin care user Barbara has this to say about it: "Love the products as I've been diagnosed with rosacea and these do not irritate my skin. My skin is softer and has more moisture".
Step 2: Tone
What you should use: Mist a hydrating toner over your face once it's dry to restore skin's PH, keep it calm, balanced and prepare it for subsequently applied products. RosaceaNet, a website developed by the American Academy of Dermatology, recommends the following: Skin is most absorbent when wet. Applying medication or anything else immediately after washing can cause burning and stinging. Waiting 5 or 10 minutes can help reduce this. If the skin still stings or feels irritated, allow more time to pass. Some people find it helpful to wait 20 to 30 minutes.
Product must-have: Bioelements Calmitude Hydrating Solution: "I have horrible rosacea and Bioelements Calmitude/Sensitive line makes my face feel "HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY!" Kimberley
Step 3: Strengthen
What you should use: To minimise the chances of irritation or a flare, the AAD recommends replenishing the skin's hydrolipidic barrier. They say "studies have shown that applying a barrier-repair emollient twice a day can help diminish rosacea because an emollient softens skin and coats it to stop water loss".
Product must-have: Bioelements Stress Solution. "This feels like satin on my skin. I have rosacea and this helps tone down the redness. Love it!" Barb
Step 4: Moisturise
What you should use: A moisturising broad spectrum sunscreen during the day, and a mild moisturiser at night
Product must-have: Because rosacea can occur in any skin type, there are multiple moisturiser choices. Bioelements Really Rich Moisture is a non-greasy option. "I have an extremely sensitive skin and then rosacea on top of that. My face always seems dry no matter what. This lotion does not irritate my face. It leaves it feeling soft. Love it!"
Alternatively, Bioelements Calmitude Sensite Skin Moisturiser will hydrate, and is dermatologist and clinically tested to be non irritating. Sun exposure can cause rosacea to flare, so it's very important to always apply a moisturing broad spectrum sunscreen like Bioelements Ray Defense every day before stepping outside.
