Skin Concern

Everything you need to know about treating rosacea

Rosacea is a complex yet common inflammatory skin condition, affecting one in ten people. While it still isn’t clear exactly what causes it, rosacea is known to be triggered by genetics, environmental factors, immunity and health, and recent research even suggesting it can originate in the gut biome.

It usually affects the skin in the form of redness over the face (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea), and in some occasions skin lesions and swelling which can be mistaken for acne (papulopustular rosacea) or redness and irritation in and around the eyes (ocular rosacea). Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure, but there are some treatments and products which can help relieve the symptoms of rosacea. So, if you or someone you know are over this endless “flushing”, hyper-reactivity or inflammation when it comes to your skin, read on.

Lady spraying O COSMEDICS Hydrating & Setting Spray on her face

What are the best skincare products to use on rosacea?

A gentle, calming and minimal routine is the best option when it comes to soothing rosacea symptoms. You want to ensure your skin is hydrated and nourished, and to protect it from pollutants or irritants. If you want to play it safe product-wise, your best option is to book a consultation with your local skin specialist about your rosacea (since each skin will vary in severity). However, if you’re needing something for the meantime, the products below have been created specifically for sensitive, inflamed and rosacea-prone skins.

O COSMEDICS O-Biome Hydrating & Setting SprayWorking to improve and regulate the natural and delicate skin biome, this hydrating and refreshing spray reduces levels of corynebacterium kroppenstedtii, a proinflammatory microbe prevalent in rosacea skins.

NEUROCOSMEDICS SOS Relief CreamThis fast-absorbing hydrating and moisturising lotion offers irritated, red and compromised skins anti-irritant, calming and soothing properties from ingredients like shea butter, date seed extract, jojoba leaf extract and chicory root.

Dp Dermaceuticals Skin Veneer A boost of hydration specifically created for skins affecting by sensitivity, dermatitis, eczema and other skin conditions, this carefully balanced and fragrance-free moisturiser nourishes with peptides, proteins and botanicals to replicate the skin’s natural barrier function.

O COSMEDICS Mineral Pro SPF 30+ Quality SPF 30 protection with natural, soothing mineral zinc oxide is an absolute daily must for those suffering from rosacea, as the sun can worsen symptoms. This gentle formula also contains Kakadu Plum Extract for antioxidant protection.

Can I use active ingredients for anti-ageing or pigmentation on my rosacea-prone skin?

While it’s definitely possible to make the most of active ingredients to treat signs of ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles or pigmentation, it’s best to first calm the skin and ensure that your skin barrier is repaired. When you do begin using actives, start with gentle ingredients like peptides, ceramides and hydrating hyaluronic acid, and save the stronger retinols and acids for areas of your complexion that have less redness (this could be different for everyone, for example your forehead or eye area may have less irritation than your cheeks).

Which professional skin treatments can help with rosacea?

We’re lucky enough to live in an age of advanced skin-science, unlike 10 or 20 years ago, with modern skin treatments that are able to successfully minimise the symptoms and appearance of rosacea. As with your active skincare, it’s best to arrange a consultation with your skincare specialist to ensure you’re choosing the right treatment for your skin (as symptoms do vary), however below are some of the treatments you can look out for:

Dermapen Microneedling

Dermapen Microneedling is a leading skin rejuvenation treatment, and has been shown to improve rosacea symptoms by normalising the creation of blood vessels (known as angiogenesis) and releasing regulatory growth factors, strengthening capillaries for a decrease in redness. The treatments also work to increase the integrity of the two top layers of the skin, the dermis and epidermis, to improve density and resiliency. Your practitioner will determine how many sessions and at what intervals will help you achieve best results, as you’ll need time between each treatment for your skin to fortify and create new collagen.

Choosing a Dermapen Gold Authorised Treatment Provider will ensure clinically proven protocols are followed, including use of the safe, targeted meso-glide products from Dp Dermaceuticals.

NEUROCOSMEDICS by GINGER&ME Clinical Facial

If you’re looking for a more entry-level skin treatment but feel concerned about reactions from facials or peels, this one is for you. The NEURCOSMEDICS Intensive Hydrating and Soothing Clinical Mask in-clinic facial treatment has been created to calm and soothe red, inflamed, irritated and rosacea-prone skins. One of the active ingredients, IBR-CALMDEAGE, has a direct action of reducing the appearance of fragile and weakened capillary walls, which works to reduce irritation, inflammation and redness while strengthening the skin. It also contains Vitamin E, a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, and Beta-Glucan (derived from oats) to calm and hydrate the skin, stimulating healing and collagen synthesis.