Banishing the Blush of Rosacea

Recognizing the Signs

Rosacea is a disease of the facial skin that has a varied appearance and is the cause of more than a little confusion among clients and professionals. 

According to the American Acne & Rosacea Society, rosacea may be caused by an enzyme and a peptide, which together produce a protein that causes an inflammatory response in the skin.  There are more than 14 million people who suffer from rosacea in the United States alone.

Clients with rosacea blush easily.  However, having pink cheeks is not enough to warrant a diagnosis.  With rosacea there will be some degree of inflammation present at times, like pimples or swelling.  Rosacea is most common on the center of the face, such as the chin, nose, cheeks and forehead. 

Many clients will report that they blush easily from food, emotion, exercise, or the weather.  They get red more quickly and stay red longer than those without rosacea.   Many clients also develop more visible blood vessels (telangesia).   These blood vessels may be referred to as “broken blood vessels” but actually, they are just large and more visible. 

Treating the Condition

If I suspect that a client has rosacea, I suggest they go to a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and thorough explanation of their condition.

Rosacea skin is irritable, so I avoid abrasive products or treatments.  I focus on calming techniques to soothe the skin.   While most peels are not appropriate for rosacea skin, PCA’s Sensi-Peel provides anti-inflammatory, anti-acne and antibacterial action, making it an excellent choice for helping calm rosacea.  Using the Sensi-Peel can help the redness and inflammation subside substantially after treatment. 

Another highly effective treatment is Red LED Therapy which calms and heals the irritation and redness of rosacea.  Many of my rosacea clients benefit greatly by using SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel (often referred to as the “magic potion”) once or twice a day rather than a prescription product.  Whatever route you decide to try, I am confident that you will be very pleased with the results I deliver to your skin.  It’s amazing what proper treatments and products can do for this common, but bothersome disease.