TREATING FACIAL ROSACEA THE RIGHT WAY: CAUSES, INGREDIENTS, PRODUCTS & OTHER TIPS

Rosacea is a skin disease that is not uncommon: both men and women can get it which for those affected is often associated with high levels of psychological distress due to reddened and uneven skin. But the good news is that rosacea can be treated. Below you will learn what rosacea is, what triggers it and how you can properly treat facial rosacea, including suitable active ingredients and product recommendations for optimal rosacea skin care.

WHAT IS ROSACEA?

Rosacea (also known as couperose) is an inflammatory and congenital disease of the skin on the face, which progresses in spurts and with varying degrees of severity. Usually adults from the age of 30 are affected, in exceptional cases children and adolescents as well. However, rosacea is not contagious or communicable. The disease usually begins with reddening of facial skin; blisters and nodules can also appear.

More precisely, rosacea is a disease in which the skin cells react to inflammation. In addition, the blood vessels in rosacea widen and then appear on the surface of the skin in the form of red veins. In more severe stages, which particularly affect men, there is also accumulation of fluid, which appears as swelling of the nose, for example.

Those affected by rosacea also suffer from burning pains and itching, they often also affect the appearance of the skin and feel disfigured. In many cases, however, rosacea is treatable with the appropriate skin care as well as an adapted lifestyle.

ROSACEA: CAUSES & PREDISPOSITION

The chances of developing rosacea are high if there is a genetic predisposition in the family. Various factors, including neurological, immunological, and microbacterial, are also thought to contribute to rosacea. However, an Irish study suggests that rosacea could be caused by the transmission from a specific type of mite (called the Demodex or hair follicle mite). It colonizes the skin of many people, in rosacea sufferers is seems to be more prevalent. According to the most recent research, however, the actual causes of rosacea have not been clearly clarified. Rosacea also occurs more frequently in fair-skinned women than in men, but usually shows a milder course in women's skin than in men's skin.

CHANCES OF HEALING & TREATMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Rosacea is currently not completely curable. But: With the right treatment and an adapted lifestyle, those affected can reduce these spurts and get the disease under control. Sometimes the disease even disappears unexpectedly.

RECOGNIZING ROSACEA: SYMPTOMS, STAGES & COURSE OF DISEASE

As a skin disease, rosacea manifests itself through various symptoms. In addition, the disease usually goes through different stages. For some people it remains at the preliminary stage, while others go through all stages of rosacea one by one. Important: In order to obtain reliable information about whether you have rosacea, only a diagnosis by a dermatologist is credible.

ROSACEA: COURSE OF DISEASE & STAGES

Rosacea follows a chronic course that occurs in spurts and is individual to each and every person. The areas of skin that are commonly affected by rosacea include:

• Predominantly: forehead, nose, cheeks, chin
• Less often: eyes, scalp, neck, chest, back

Because rosacea manifests itself differently in each and every person affected by it, a clear and unambiguous assignment of stages is not always easy. In general, however, the following stages can be identified.

Itching and a strong feeling of dryness accompany the appearance of rosacea in the preliminary stages.

SUBSTAGE (ROSACEA DIATHESIS)

In the beginning, the disease manifests itself in a sudden reddening of the skin that only lasts for a short time. This is often referred to as erythema or "flushes". Usually the nose, middle forehead, chin and cheeks are affected. In the early stages of rosacea, the skin usually feels drier than usual and is also more sensitive. Those affected often notice this from the fact that their skin reacts with reddening when applying care products that they have always tolerated very well up to now. In this initial phase, it is typical for the redness to subside as quickly as it appeared.

Severity I (ROSACEA ERYTHEMATOSA-TELEANGIECTATICA)

A progression of rosacea can be recognized by stronger redness, which no longer disappears by itself. In addition, this stage of rosacea is noticeable with a feeling of dryness of the skin. Occasional and slight dandruff formation can be observed as well. It also happens that, in addition to the reddening of the skin, there are also highlighted red veins in the skin. These are vasodilatations (or telangiectasias). For those affected, this stage of the disease is associated with the following symptoms:

• Skin tingling and itching
• Feeling hot
• Burning sensation on the face
• Stinging feeling on the skin

Severity II (ROSACEA PAPULOPUSTULOSA)

In advanced stages of rosacea, inflamed and reddened vesicles and nodules, so-called pustules and papules, form. These usually appear for several weeks before they subside. Every now and then it also happens that lymphedema forms: This is an accumulation of fluid that shows up as swellings in the skin tissue. Because of the pustules and papules that form, rosacea is often interpreted as acne at this stage. However, the difference between acne and rosacea is that with rosacea there are no blackheads (or comedones).

Severity III (GLANDULAR-HYPERPLASTIC ROSAZEA)

This is the most severe form of rosacea: you notice how sebum glands and connective tissue enlarge and grow excessively. This creates so-called phymes, bulbous growths that occur, in particular, as deformations of the nose (or rhinophyma). Usually men are more affected by these than women. In this phase of rosacea in particular, the level of distress is very grave due to the strong physical change.

Rosacea can also occur during or after pregnancy.

SPECIAL FORM OF ROSACEA

In addition to this widespread course of rosacea, which is usually limited to the face, there are a few other special forms of rosacea:

• Eye rosacea (called ophthalmorosacea), which is noticeable when the blood vessels of the eyes become enlarged and the eyelids are inflamed
• Rosacea fulminans, which tends to occur during and after pregnancy
• Steroid rosacea that results from long-term use of cortisone

HOW IS ROSACEA DIFFERENT FROM COUPEROSE?

Whether couperose is an early form of rosacea or an independent disease is controversial among medical professionals. What is certain, however, is that couperose has these symptoms:

• Redness
• Dryness
• Sensitivity
• Dilated blood vessels

That means: the serious symptoms of rosacea do not (yet) occur with couperose. For reliable information on whether you may have couperose or rosacea, it is best to consult a dermatologist.

13 ROSACEA TRIGGERS & POSSIBLE CAUSES

According to the most recent research, the causes of rosacea have not been conclusively clarified. However, there are some characteristics that are more common in people affected by rosacea: Often it is fair-skinned people who develop rosacea from around the age of 30. In addition, more women than men are affected. In exceptional cases, children and adolescents can also develop rosacea. While the causes of rosacea are not exactly clear, there are a number of triggers that signal the occurrence of the rosacea flare-ups.

1. SUN

Skin affected by rosacea can react very strongly to UV radiation. Even a short walk without sun protection can cause the disease to break out, not to mention sunbathing on the beach. A suitable sunscreen (sun protection factor 50+ with oil-free product formulation), even in the shade, as well as the appropriate physical sun protection in the form of a hat and sunglasses are indispensable for this trigger.

2. SUDDEN TEMPERATURE CHANGES

Sudden changes in temperature, from cold to warm or the other way around, can cause flare-ups. In these cases, those affected should avoid strong temperature fluctuations from very warm rooms to cold environments, as well as, for example, going to the sauna.

3. HOT BATHROOMS & STEAM BATHS

Whereas a hot bath usually promises relaxation after a long day, it can trigger a flare-up in the case of rosacea and become a stress factor. Even higher room temperatures can cause a surge in sensitive skin. A shower with water at a good temperature is the better choice here. The same applies of course when heating rooms.

4. HOT DRINKS

Coffee, tea, cocoa, punch and the like: Even hot drinks can promote flare-ups. Therefore, it is worthwhile to let the drinks cool down a little before you drink them.

5. WIND

Persistent wind is also a common cause for rosacea. Especially in combination with the cold, it causes reddening of the face in those affected by it. In such cases it makes sense not to be outside, but to seek shelter indoors. If it is unavoidable that you go outside, you should protect your skin with a soft scarf and a hat.

6. STRESS

It is well known that stress even affects normal skin. With rosacea, however, even low levels of stress can result in very uncomfortable and painful symptoms. Therefore, it is all the more important to avoid recurring stress factors in the long term and to ensure sufficient relaxation phases.

You can actively prevent rosacea flare-ups with less intensive types of sport and targeted stress reduction.

7. EXERCISE

Unfortunately, because exercise increases blood circulation, it is also one of the possible triggers of rosacea flare-ups. It is therefore advisable to exercise moderately and avoid excessive training. Relaxing forms of yoga such as yin yoga, for example, are a good choice, whereas Bikram yoga, which takes place in hot temperatures, or intensive sports such as boxing may be unsuitable depending on your disposition.

8. SMOKING

Smoking harms all skin types, and in the case of rosacea, it can aggravate the symptoms. This even applies to staying in rooms where others smoke.

9. RED WINE & OTHER ALCOHOLIC DRINKS

Since alcohol dilates the blood vessels, it's no surprise that it can cause flare-ups too. Red wine, in particular, is considered a common cause of rosacea.

10. SPICY FOOD

Spicy dishes can also cause rosacea to flare-up. It is therefore worth avoiding spicy curries, stews, sauces and the like.

11. DAIRY PRODUCTS

Dairy products can also foster rosacea. These include, for example, cheese, quark, whipped cream, butter, yogurt and a lot more. In this case, you can't avoid trying things out and seeing exactly how your skin reacts to the products. However, there are now a number of vegan products or milk alternatives that you can use. Important: Avoid products that are based on soy, as these are also suspected of triggering flare-ups due to their high histamine content.

12. ARTIFICIAL PERFUMES

Artificial fragrances can not only trigger pigment spots and skin irritation, but also flare-ups of rosacea. Therefore Doctor Mi! medical skincare completely avoids the use of artificial fragrances, in all products of the care line.

13. INCORRECT SKIN CARE

Inappropriate skin care routines can irritate rosacea-affected skin and cause flare-ups. The decisive factor is the exclusive use of products whose use is also safe for rosacea: like those in the Doctor Mi! ROSAZEA SET that was specially created by Dr. Miriam Rehbein, dermatologist and product developer at Doctor Mi! medical skincare.

SUCCESSFULLY TREATING ROSAZEA: HOW TO DO IT

Despite the many possible triggers that cause rosacea flare-ups, there is good news: With the right facial care and an adapted, conscious lifestyle, you can usually get rosacea under control. Correct treatment is crucial here.

Rosacea outbreaks can be well controlled with proper skin care regimens.

WHICH INGREDIENTS HELP IN TREATING ROSACEA?

Since skin affected by rosacea is very sensitive, the active ingredients that you use should not irritate the skin barrier, but rather make it more resistant. In many cases, therefore, anti-inflammatory, skin-calming and restorative ingredients are ideal. On the other hand, you should avoid essential oils and other active ingredients that promote blood circulation, such as menthol.

Some of the active ingredients that are particularly effective in treating roscea include:

• TECMi! ®-encapsulated Retinol (no ordinary Retinol!)
• Panthenol
• Allantoin
• Ectoin®
• Acetylglucosamine
• DEFENSIL®-PLUS
• SyriCalm ™ CLR
• Vitamin B3 / niacinamide
• Vitamin B5 / pantothenic acid
• Amino acids
• Black Beeome ™
• AHA fruit acids
• BHA / salicylic acid

Important: Ingredients that you should definitely avoid are artificial fragrances! These not only trigger rosacea but also irritate normal skin and lead to pigment spots in the long term.

Tip: None of the Doctor Mi! medical skincare products contain artificial fragrances or essential oils. This ensures that the entire care range is optimally compatible. You will also find all of the above-mentioned active ingredients that are recommended for the treatment of rosacea in the products of Doctor Mi! medical skincare.

INSIDER TIP: TECMi! ® RETINOL FOR THE SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF ROSACEA

Regular Retinol is often mentioned as one of the active ingredients to avoid in rosacea - which is true, because ordinary Retinol does not always completely penetrate into the deeper skin layer, where it is needed for its cell-renewing properties, but instead often adheres to the surface of the skin, where it can cause serious irritation in rosacea patients.

With Doctor Mi! medical skincare's specially developed TECMi!®-Retinol, this is different: The Retinol molecules are enclosed in a double encapsulation, which ensures that the Retinol molecules penetrate directly into the lower skin layer and do not adhere to the skin surface. Here they unfold their entire skin-renewing, restorative and cell-protecting effect, which has been scientifically proven. In addition, the TECMi!® encapsulation ensures that the molecules are more resistant, for example, to the influence of light.

That means: The TECMi!® encapsulation acts like a double protective cover and ensures that your skin benefits completely from all the skin-renewing and caring benefits of Retinol without exposing them to possible side effects.

TECMi!®-encapsulated Retinol

Conventional Retinol

WHICH CARE PRODUCTS WILL HELP ME IN TREATING ROSACEA?

If you have rosacea, it is important that you use skin care products that are mildly formulated to avoid additional irritation and weakening of your skin. At the same time, however, relevant active ingredients should also be contained in suitable dosages.

The ROSACEA SET by Doctor Mi! medical skincare is a dermatological care range that perfectly combines these requirements: Enriched with a multitude of selected active ingredients that are both gentle and effective for the skin, your rosacea will be fully nourished. The product formulations completely dispense with artificial fragrances which irritate the skin and cause irritation. In addition, Doctor Mi! medical skincare largely manages to avoid using oils which is recommend with rosacea.

The Doctor Mi! ROSACEA SET includes the following products: [product-slider handles = "clean-cleaning gel, tone-face toner, peel-face peeling, day-anti-aging-day cream, night-Retinol-night cream, red-Retinol-serum, mask, hand-sanitizer"]

Tip: Convice yourself of the excellent effectiveness of Doctor Mi! medical skincare in our before and after area!

IS IT SENSIBLE TO TREAT ROSACEA WITH ANTIBIOTICS?

Temporary treatment with anti-inflammatory antibiotics is an option, particularly for stage II rosacea. However, this is not a substitute for targeted skin care of rosacea. Caution is also advised in the case of permanent treatment with antibiotics: this is because bacteria can develop resistance to the respective antibiotic over time.

DOES LASER THERAPY HELP WITH ROSACEA?

Laser therapy can achieve good results for rosacea: It can be used to temporarily remove or reduce redness, swelling, enlarged veins and nodules, for example. A lymph drainage can also help to reduce swelling. However, it cannot be ruled out that the rosacea will return. Repeated treatment is possible though, and laser therapy is very painless. If you are interested in laser therapy for rosacea, you can make an appointment here at the Munich practice of Dr. Miriam Rehbein.

MORE TIPS & RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TREATING ROSACEA

In addition to the active ingredients and care products mentioned, you will receive further tips and recommendations below that will help you in your treatment of rosacea. The following always applies to rosacea: Try to avoid strong stimuli.

KEEP A DIARY & IDENTIFY ROSACEA TRIGGERS

It is essential to keep a diary, so that you know exactly how to adjust your lifestyle and diet: You should write down exactly what you made and ate on which day and note the days on which your skin flared up. This is the best way to find out which individual triggers lead to the flare-ups of rosacea.

Tip: Of course, you can also use an app for this, such as the Rosacea Diary (for Android | for iOS).

NUTRITION IN ROSACEA: WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR

Smoothies, fitness salads and lots of tea: if some magazines are to be believed, they are the holy grail of healthy eating. If you are affected by rosacea, however, caution is advised: There are some foods that are known to cause rosacea flare-ups. Foods containing histamine, in particular, are suspected of promoting flare-ups, as are wheat and sugar. You should also check whether your skin reacts to spicy dishes and hot drinks with flare-ups.

Tip: Because the liver is responsible for detoxifying the body, intermittent fasting can also work well in some cases to prevent rosacea.

EXERCISE & STRESS REDUCTION FOR ROSACEA

Stress, sudden changes in temperature, and intense exercise sessions can promote flare-ups. That is why moderate training is the order of the day for rosacea: walks, bike tours that are not too strenuous, meditative yoga and a lot of relaxation are beneficial. If you are also outdoors, it is important that you use sun protection factor 50+ every day and all year round, even in cloudy skies or snow as UV radiation also reaches your skin here. It is best to use an oil-free sunscreen to protect your skin.

MAKE-UP WITH ROSACEA

If you want to use make-up with rosacea, make sure that it is non-comedogenic, i.e. that it does not cause pimples. In addition, it is also important that when choosing foundation, concealer and powder, you avoid products that contain oil and those that contain artificial fragrances. Mineral powder, for example, is well suited as a foundation. In addition, you should always apply sun protection factor 50+ during the day before applying make-up.

By the way: You can safely neglect the sun protection contained in foundations as it is almost always way too low to effectively protect your skin from UV radiation. When it comes to sun protection, it is best to use an oil-free product formulation.

SHAVING WITH FOR ROSAZEA: CHOOSE A DRY SHAVE

If you have rosacea but don't want to do without shaving your beard, it is best to dry shave. This will avoid unnecessary skin irritation and reduce the risk of a rosacea outbreak.

TREAT ROSACEA CORRECTLY - WITH DOCTOR Mi! MEDICAL SKINCARE

Rosacea is a serious disease that can be very stressful for those who have it. If you also suffer from rosacea, look for the ROSACEA SET in our Doctor Mi! online shop as it is the perfect skin care package for the face to treat and care for rosacea in a gentle yet effective way. This way, you regain control over your skin and strengthen it sustainably: for a calm, more even and healthier complexion.

About Dr. Miriam Rehbein

Dr. Miriam Rehbein is a licensed specialist in dermatology as well as the founder and product developer of Doctor Mi! medical skincare. As a recognized expert in skin care, she not only passes on her specialist knowledge to colleagues at congresses and training courses, but also treats patients in her Munich practice. Based on her many years of experience in dealing with patients, Miriam Rehbein has created a care line with DoctorMi! medical skincare that pursues one goal in particular: to help the skin to help itself.