Rosacea affects over 16 million Americans. If you are dealing with the complication, you are not alone. The good news is that Dr. Wendy Long Mitchell can help you manage symptoms like bulbous nose, prominent facial blood vessels, and facial redness. You might benefit from medications or laser treatments to effectively manage your issue. But since some factors commonly trigger rosacea, you may continue experiencing flair-ups unless you learn to take good care of yourself. Here are some ideas to reduce your chances of experiencing rosacea flare-ups.
Know Your Triggers and Avoid Them
Rosacea flare-ups mainly happen when exposed to certain factors like beauty products, high-temperature foods, very cold weather, overexposure to sun or wind, and spicy food. Since everyone’s experience is different, it is good to know what causes your flair-ups as it will help you avoid them and prevent the condition. Generally, try and avoid anything that increases blood flow to your skin’s surface.
Take Precautions for Your Skin
Several factors contribute to rosacea flare-ups, and exposing your skin to some of them could only make your ongoing condition worse. Therefore, consult your provider for tips to protect your skin from potential rosacea flare-ups triggers. You can use sunscreen whenever you are in the sun to avoid direct UVA and UVB rays. Also, stay out of the sun, use fans, or stay in air-conditioned rooms to cool your skin. Additionally, do not forget to protect your skin during winter by putting on a face mask or a scarf.
Use Gentle Cleansers
If you are prone to rosacea, it would be good to wash your face and other prone areas with a gentle cleanser. This will not only help you avoid rosacea flare-ups but also reduce the risk for infections or breakouts by eliminating bacteria from your skin. Buy a gentle cleanser with a neutral pH and go for products with no fragrance and are allergy tested. Also, wash carefully with your fingertips rather than a sponge or washcloth that could irritate your skin. Additionally, ensure you blot your skin dry to prevent skin irritation.
Moisturize Your Skin
Maintaining your skin moisturized will help create a barrier to prevent flare-ups and can also soothe rosacea. Wash your skin clean and apply a specific moisturizer for better results. Consult your provider to understand the right product for you since vast products are available in the market. Remember to wait for about 10 minutes after washing to minimize stinging or burning and apply your product frequently for better results.
Watch out for Irritants
Some well-known irritants found in some cosmetic products have been found to cause rosacea flare-ups. It is good to read the ingredients in your product label carefully. Generally, watch out for alcohol, exfoliating agents, eucalyptus oil, peppermint, menthol, fragrance, and witch hazel. It will help you avoid flare-ups when you use skin products.
Avoid Touching Your Skin
It would be good if you keep your hands and fingers away from your face. Rubbing or touching your face could stir up rosacea flare-ups, but you can make a conscious effort of not doing it not only to your face but to other areas that are prone to rosacea. Additionally, do not pick any rosacea lesion or rest your hands on your chin or face.
Although rosacea is common, you can prevent flare-ups by avoiding common triggers and taking good care of your skin. Reach out to Manhattan Dermatology to explore more. If you are currently enduring rosacea, your provider will evaluate and recommend the best treatment option for you.
