Have you ever asked yourself, how do I now if I have rosacea and what are the best natural homemade remedies? If so, this article aims to provide an analysis of what rosacea is, what are the different types of rosacea and what causes this condition together a set of DIY home remedies for your rosacea skin care routine.
What is Rosacea?
According to Harvard Health Publishing, the media and publishing division of the Harvard Medical School of Harvard University:
Rosacea is a common, long-lasting skin condition that causes inflammation and redness of the face. It usually starts with redness on the cheeks and nose, and also can affect the forehead and chin. Rosacea tends to affect fair-skinned adults between ages 30 and 50 who have “peaches and cream” complexions and a history of blushing easily. Women develop rosacea more often than men, but men are more apt to develop lumpy, enlarged noses, a condition called rhinophyma. Rosacea often is mistaken for sunburn and often goes undiagnosed.
In rare cases some other parts of the body can be affected such as the eyes or scalp. Even the ears, chest, and back can be red all the time.
What Causes Rosacea?
It is not known exactly what causes this condition, but genes and exposure to the environment appear to play an important role. Some experts believe that exposure to certain mites or bacteria can trigger rosacea causing inflammation while others consider it is an inherited condition from one of your family members.
Another recent research suggested that drinking alcohol causes rosacea as well. Published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, the study concludes that people ( especially women) who drank alcohol had a higher risk of developing this condition. White wine or hard liquor presented the highest risk factor.
What are the different types and symptoms of Rosacea?
There are four different subtypes of rosacea and if you have most of the symptoms described bellow, it is very likely that you have developed this skin condition and it’s about time you saw your GP as early diagnosis and treatment can help stop the condition getting worse.
The American Academy of Dermatology , classifies rosacea in four subtypes:
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: characterized by redness, flushing, visible blood vessels.
Papulopustular rosacea: characterized by redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickens and has a bumpy texture.
Ocular rosacea: Eyes red and irritated, eyelids can be swollen, and person may have what looks like a sty
Home Remedies for Rosacea Treatment
If after reading the above pieces of information you came to the conclusion that you might suffer from rosacea, it’s best to see medical advice as your doctor might give you rosacea treatment prescriptions such as Antibiotics, Brimonidine , Azelaic acid (Finacea), Estrogen, Laser treatment for rosacea or other medical procedures.
In case rosacea affects your eyes, you might also need to visit an ophthalmologist, who will know the best way to treat the area surrounding the eyes and how to prevent vision problems from worsening.
If you have already been medically diagnosed with this skin disorder and are looking for natural home remedies for rosacea treatment, here are our top suggestions:
Avoid rosacea triggers
Sudden changes in temperature and prolonged exposure to the sun at unsuitable hours are not recommended for those who suffer from rosacea skin disorder. A sun cream with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 is recommended. A broad-spectrum sun cream that protects against UVA and UVB light should be used but make sure you choose only non irritant cosmetic products so as to avoid any possible allergic reactions on face. During cold and windy weather, cover your face and nose with a scarf.
Rosacea treatment diet is also a key factor.It is necessary to avoid spicy meals, unhealthy fats, alcohol, coffee and tea as they might dilate blood vessels. Drinking 2 l of water per day is essential as well as physical exercises. Daily intake of fruits and vegetables is also important and enrich our diet with cold pressed oils that have Omega-3 and Omega-6. If possible try to avoid sugar and processed foods as much as possible.
It is best to choose only specific, high quality, non-allergenic or irritant cosmetic products and keep you makeup as natural as possible.It may be possible to disguise patches of persistent red skin using specially designed foundation.
Stress is also a commonly reported trigger of rosacea. Breathing exercises such as Stress Relief Breathing could succesfully help you manage your stress levels.
Home remedies for rosacea
Onions are full of minerals, nutrients, vitamins and unique anti-inflammatory compounds. If you have a mild form of rosacea, you can apply to the affected area some onion juice mixed in equal parts with corn or olive oil up to two times a day for one week.
Lavender is very good for maintaining skin health.
Make an infusion with 10 g lavender on which you pour 200 ml of boiling water. Cover for 30 minutes, strain and apply to the face three times a day.
Lavender essential oil could also be used. Dilute lavender essential oil in a carrier oil and apply to your skin no more than twice a day.
It is also possible to mix some drops in your favorite moisturizer. Use about five drops per ounce of product.
Another remedy mother nature gave us is Rosemary. It stimulates blood circulation, strengthens capillaries and boosts cellular regeneration. Rosemary also protects cellular structures from free radical action and works wonders for wrinkled and red skin. Make an infusion with 20 g of Rosemary, pour one liter of boiling water and leave it covered for 20-30 minutes. Strain and clean your face with the infusion using a clean cotton pad.
According to WebMD, Green tea reduces redness and inflammation caused by rosacea due to its anti-inflammatory properties and may be a safe and beneficial treatment for this skin condition.
Make a green tea infusion as you would normally do when preparing your daily cup of tea. Leave it in the fridge for about 30 minutes then apply on the affected area using a clean compress dipped in the cooled infusion.
Drinking green tea is also a great idea.
Oatmeal hydrates, heals irritations, relieves the itching sensation and acts as an efficient anti-inflammatory. Grind a handful of oats in your food processor. Take 1/2 cup of ground oats and mix with 1/4 cup of water to create a paste and then apply to the affected area without massaging. Leave for 15 to 20 minutes then rinse thoroughly with cold water.
Tea tree essential oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, kills germs resistant to methicillin, vancomycin and other antibiotics. It can be diluted in a carrier oil and applied directly to your skin no more than twice daily.
Other essential oils which can be used to redness treatment ( always combined with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil and no more than twice a day): eucalyptus, geranium, chamomile, rose and thyme.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Home Remedies for Rosacea Treatment mentioned in the present article are not medical advice, they are only intended as options for you to discuss with your dermatologist or your primary care physician. If you suspect or are concerned that you might suffer from rosacea, always make sure you visit a dermatologist or your primary care physician for a diagnosis and treatment options.There are many skin conditions and diseases with signs and symptoms similar to rosacea , some of which may be very serious. Always ask your dermatologist or your primary care physician before trying any natural remedies at home.
Other tips for your home skin care routine
1. Make sure you clean your skin every morning and evening using a gentle cleanser.
2. Rinse your face with lukewarm water and allow skin to dry thoroughly before you apply medication or make-up.
3. Stay away from astringents, toners and other facial or hair products that are nor mild, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.
1 comment
thanks Sabinne, this article is really helpful, for me tea tree essential oil worked best.