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Over 14 million people in the USA suffer from an extremely common skin condition known as rosacea. Interestingly enough, many of those 14 million don’t even know they have it. Even though rosacea is quite ubiquitous within the general population a large number of people with the problem have never heard the term.
Rosacea is a scattering of red patches and acne-like bumps on the facial skin. It’s certainly noticeable and can lead to a wide variety of emotional, social and psychological problems if not dealt with. The most common signs of rosacea according to the National Rosacea Society located in Illinois (www.rosacea.org) are redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead, small visible blood vessels on the face, bumps or pimples on the face and/or watery or irritated eyes.
Rosacea can be found in both sexes and, although predominately affecting those with fair skin, can also strike those of Asians and African American descent. This skin disorder most often appears after the age of 30 although any age may show symptoms of rosacea.
Unfortunately, doctors don’t understand the exact cause of rosacea. Some researchers feel it is caused by an underlying blood vessel disorder while others hypothesize that rosacea is caused by particular strains of bacteria. Either way, almost all health care professionals contend that rosacea has no cure and includes episodes of remissions and reoccurrences.
The condition can range from mild cases up to life-altering cases where an individual shows a decrease in self esteem, scales back on social and work place interactions and may even cease leaving the house on some days due to the severity of their rosacea.
Researchers have also found that there does seem to be a connection between certain triggers and flare ups. These triggers include sun exposure, emotional stressors, extreme weather temperatures, wind, alcohol, heated beverages and/or spicy food consumption, hot baths, heavy exercise and certain skin care product ingredients.
Rosacea is a common, yet little talked about skin disorder that deserves to be brought into the open. If you suffer from rosacea or have a family member or friend with this disorder, take heart. There are medications, skin care products and other therapies that can decrease the severity of the rosacea episodes leaving you better able to enjoy your daily life. Below you will find a skin care regimen from the National Rosacea Society along with several excellent skin care products that can be used in conjunction with any medications or suggestions that your health care provider may suggest.
Skin Care Regimen for Rosacea
Dermatologists specializing in skin disorders such as rosacea recommend a daily gentle cleanse (preferably in the mornings) using a mild soap or cleanser. Try to never use any skin care product that contains abrasives or that is grainy and textured as these will only aggravate the skin condition. Likewise, only use soft cloths or pads and never rough washcloths, brushes or loofahs. Be sure to remove the soap with warm water and dry thoroughly with a soft cotton towel. If you are using a topical medication wait several minutes to allow the face to dry completely, this will discourage overgrowth of bacteria. Finally, before applying other skin care products, including makeup, let the medication sit on the skin and soak into the deep layers for five to 10 minutes.
Skin Care Products for Rosacea
Pevonia Botanica RS2 Care Cream calms irritated, inflamed, and itchy, dry skin through its unique blend of herbal ingredients. Green tea, licorice, hazelnut oil, French rose oil and chamomile extract are combined in this beautiful, soothing cream that easily glides across sensitive skin and sinks into the deepest layers to cool and comfort. The RS2 Care Cream provides UV protection, one of rosacea’s potential triggers. The cream can be used in the morning and at night and should be rubbed on the face and neck for complete coverage and protection.
If your rosacea tends to be associated with stinging, and extreme sensitivity try B. Kamins Booster Blue Rosacea Treatment. This skin care product aims to reduce sensitivity, calm inflamed and irritated skin cells while also smoothing uneven and bumpy skin. The Booster Blue Rosacea Treatment can be combined with other B. Kamins products by purchasing the complete Rosacea Kit or Rosacea Starter Kit which includes several other rosacea focused skin care products. This line helps to reduce redness and blotchiness while keeping inflamed regions to a minimum.
Article posted 9/18/2006.
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