An estimated 16 million Americans suffer from rosacea (say it out loud: roe-ZAY-she-uh). April is Rosacea Awareness Month, so let’s discuss this condition and what we can do about it.
Rosacea presents as a redness across the nose and cheeks, oftentimes feeling like a sunburn that won’t go away. This can be uncomfortable and stressful for patients.
For those who suffer from it, there are many simple tips we recommend to manage it. Here’s what our providers say:
Make sun protection a priority. SPF 30 everyday will help with rosacea. “It is also a smart habit to protect your skin generally and to prevent skin cancer, sunspots, and other issues going forward,” says Ashwin Kumar, PA-C.
“Stress can trigger a flare-up, so do your best to keep calm. In stressful moments, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. I know, it is so much easier said than done, but it’s important to keep your cool so your face doesn’t get hot,” says Kira Schachinger, PA-C.
Avoid overheating. “It’s tricky this time of year when temperatures can swing by up to 40 degrees throughout the day,” says Dr. Daniel Peraza. “Dress in layers, keep showers short and warm (not hot), and have cold water on hand.”
“Look for a green tinted foundation that can be layered under your other make-up to help camouflage redness,” says Elisabeth Neal, PA-C.
Pay attention to your skin care ingredients list. Dr. Jose Peraza recommends avoiding menthol, camphor, or sodium lauryl sulfate, as they can wreak havoc on your complexion.
If alcohol is a trigger for your flare-ups, try white wine instead of red. Alternatively, drink water instead of alcohol.
Rosacea is a condition where a board certified dermatologist can help you figure out the root cause of your condition. We have decades of experience helping patients develop personalized treatment plans for their lifestyles.
There is no need to let rosacea have the upper hand; make an appointment to discuss the options available to assist you with this condition.