How to Live – and Thrive- with Rosacea
Living with rosacea can feel like a game of ‘what now?’ when it comes to flare-ups and triggers. The good news is that it’s possible not just to live with rosacea, but to thrive! By understanding your skin and making a few smart choices, you can keep flare-ups at bay and feel more confident. At Midwest Dermatology, our physicians and aestheticians are here to help you along the way.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that causes redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps on the face. It usually comes and goes, and triggers like stress, spicy foods, or sun exposure can make symptoms worse. But rosacea doesn’t have to hold you back. Let’s talk about how to manage it with confidence!
New! A Sunscreen Game-Changer for Rosacea
Managing rosacea involves a combination of lifestyle adjustments, skincare routines, and the right products. At Midwest Dermatology, we’re excited to introduce a game-changer in sun protection for sensitive skin: EltaMD’s UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This innovative sunscreen offers broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection and features a green tint to neutralize redness, making it ideal for rosacea-prone skin. Its 100% mineral-based formula includes Centella Asiatica and a ceramide blend to soothe and strengthen the skin barrier.
Adding this sunscreen to your routine can help protect against UV triggers and manage rosacea symptoms effectively. Talk to your Midwest DERMaesthetics aesthetician to learn more! UV Skin Recovery can be purchased at our Lakeside and Dodge Street office, or arrangements can be made for pickup at any location. Or order online at midwestderm.com.
Prescription Treatments for Rosacea
When lifestyle changes aren’t enough, prescription treatments can make a difference. Your dermatologist at Midwest Dermatology may recommend:
- Topical treatments for redness: Brimonidine (Mirvaso) and oxymetazoline (Rhofade) help reduce flushing by constricting blood vessels. They work quickly but are best used occasionally to avoid rebound redness.
- Topical treatments for bumps: Azelaic acid, metronidazole, and ivermectin target rosacea-related breakouts. Results can take a few weeks, but they provide long-lasting relief.
- Oral antibiotics: For more serious symptoms, oral doxycycline can reduce inflammation and calm the skin.
- Oral acne medication: In severe cases, isotretinoin may help clear persistent bumps, but it requires careful medical supervision.
Ready to take the next step? Schedule an appointment with a board-certified physician at Midwest Dermatology to start your journey to better skin!
Eat to Thrive
It might sound surprising, but your diet plays a big role in how your skin behaves. Some foods can reduce inflammation and keep your skin calm, while others might trigger redness. Here’s a quick guide:
- Anti-inflammatory heroes: Think dark leafy greens, berries, and veggies like bell peppers and carrots. These help keep your skin happy.
- Healthy fats: Foods like olive oil, eggs, and peanut butter can keep flare-ups under control.
- Omega-3s for the win: Load up on salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts to reduce inflammation.
- Gut health matters: Prebiotics and probiotics (like kefir and kimchi) can support your skin from the inside out.
Pro tip: Keep a food diary to track what works for you. Everyone’s skin is unique!
Stay Sun Smart
Sun exposure can be a major trigger, so sunscreen is your best friend. Look for mineral-based formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, and make sure it’s SPF 30 or higher, such as Elta MD’s new UV Skin Recovery Red Color Correcting Green Tint Broad Spectrum SPF 50, developed for patients with rosacea and other redness causing conditions. Bonus points for wearing wide-brimmed hats and sun-protective clothing!
Exercise Wisely
Getting moving is great for your health, but intense workouts can heat you up and lead to flushing. Opt for low-intensity exercises like walking or yoga and keep cool with a damp towel or facial mist. Hydration is key, too!
Skincare That Loves Your Skin
Finding the right products can make all the difference. Go for gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers with soothing ingredients like aloe or chamomile. Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol and menthol—they can make symptoms worse.
Visible redness associated with rosacea affects millions of people globally and is a chronic condition that can lead to considerable physical and emotional distress.
Various factors, such as stress, diet, specific medications, family history, and environmental stressors, can trigger flare-ups. However, there are supportive skincare options available that can help reduce the visible signs of rosacea, such as redness and papules/pustules.
Mystro Active Balance Serum recently received the National Rosacea Society Seal of Acceptance for its demonstrated ability to control redness associated with rosacea. SkinBetter’s proprietary P.A.T.H. Technology found in Mystro Active Balance Serum utilizes a purposeful blend of plant-based adaptogens to uniquely support the skin’s natural ability to adapt to stress and achieve balance. Mystro Active Balance Serum is available for purchase at the Lakeside and Dodge Street offices or online at midwestderm.com.
Pro tip: Many Midwest Dermatology nurses and staff members have discovered the benefits of Mystro! Ask at the front desk to see if it is right for you.
Consider Laser Treatments
For stubborn redness, treatments like IPL or Excel V lasers can be a game-changer. These options target visible blood vessels and reduce flushing, giving your skin a more even tone.
You’ve Got This!
Managing rosacea doesn’t mean giving up on feeling good about your skin. With the right care and expert support from Midwest Dermatology, you can thrive. Our board-certified dermatologists are here to create a personalized plan that works for you. Ready to take control? Let’s do it together! Call (402) 933-0800 to schedule or use our convenient online appointment link to schedule your own appointment where and when you want to go!