Guidelines in Choosing the Right Moisturizers for Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin condition wherein redness occurs on the nose, chin, forehead, and cheeks. According to doctors, the exact cause of rosacea is yet unknown, although they have observed that several factors can trigger a flare up, such as sun exposure, stress, heavy exercise, spicy foods, certain cosmetics, and many others. Aside from redness of the skin, pimples and bumps can also occur on the affected area of the skin and a burning sensation can be felt in the eyes. Rosacea also damages the ability of the skin to retain moisture, thus, resulting to dry skin conditions. This can cause some burning and stinging sensations, which is why it is important to use moisturizers for rosacea.
Since rosacea is a clear indication of a sensitive skin, you should be very careful in picking the products that you use for your face to avoid aggravating your condition. When choosing moisturizers for rosacea, you should follow some simple guidelines. Keep these in mind when you are reading various labels as you scour for the right moisturizers for rosacea in the skin care aisles.
-“For Sensitive Skin” – Most skin products are categorized to suit different skin types, such as dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Although rosacea can make your skin dry, this does not mean that you should instantly go for moisturizers that are formulated for dry skin. These can contain too much oil, humectants, or emollients that can be harsh on your skin. Whatever benefit you get from their hydrating properties could be outweighed by their irritant potential. Pick something mild instead. Go for those that are for sensitive skin or hypoallergenic variants. They provide moisture while being gentle to your skin.
-Bland moisturizers – These moisturizers for rosacea do not contain harsh ingredients that could cause irritation to the skin. As much as possible, you would want to avoid any triggers that could start a flare up, so avoid moisturizers that contain unnecessary ingredients. Remember that you are looking for a product that will alleviate the dryness of your skin, so skip the fragrances, alcohol, and other additives. Other ingredients to watch out for are peppermint, menthol, retinols, alpha-hydroxy acids, eucalyptus, lanolin, propylene glycol, camphor, acetone, formaldehyde releasers, and urea.
-No to acne treatment products – Even if your rosacea comes with pimples, avoid moisturizers that are formulated for acne because they contain ingredients that could dry the skin, like salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. It is best to ask your dermatologist for the right solution for your acne while taking into account your rosacea.
-Calming ingredients – On the other hand, you may want to use a moisturizer that has a calming effect on your skin that could reduce the symptoms of rosacea. Green tea, aloe, and chamomile are known to have a soothing effect, which can lessen any inflammation and redness that you may be experiencing.
-Sunscreen – Since sun exposure is known to trigger flare ups, you should also use moisturizers for rosacea that provides an SPF 15 protection or more.
Now that you know what to look for and what to avoid when looking for the best moisturizers for rosacea, it would also benefit you to know the proper way to apply it. Ideally, apply your moisturizer after you have cleansed your face in the morning and in the evening. Make sure that you use a mild cleanser before you moisturize and choose hypoallergenic cosmetic products on top of your moisturizer. If you are using a topical cream for your rosacea, apply this after cleansing and let it dry for about five minutes before you apply your moisturizer. It is important to use gentle and minimum strokes when applying your moisturizer, as excessive rubbing can exacerbate your condition. Further, make sure that you clean your hands before touching your skin. Any dirt or bacteria can aggravate your already irritated skin, especially if you have acne as well.
To help you choose the right moisturizers for rosacea, here are a few brands that you may try.
Dove Moisturizer
Dove has always taken pride for having a line of products that are mild for the skin. It is no wonder that a group of dermatologists has chosen to use their moisturizer in studying the effects of regularly applying a moisturizer on skin with rosacea. The three-week study ended with a conclusion that the daily use of a mild moisturizer can greatly improve skin hydration, health, and quality.
Cetaphil Daily Moisturizer
This moisturizer is fragrance-free and has an SPF 15. It can greatly improve the skin’s ability to retain moisture and significant results can be seen after two weeks of continued use. Since it already has a sunscreen, users no longer have to use a separate product for their sun protection. It also has a non-greasy formula, which is why most rosacea sufferers swear to love this product.
Rosacea Care Willowherb Moisturizer
This moisturizer is rich with ingredients that all help in reducing the signs and symptoms of rosacea. First, it has vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting. Rosacea flare-ups are caused by the expansion of the blood vessels and vitamin K can reverse this by healing the capillaries. Second, it has willowherb extract, which is a natural ingredient that has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. Its calming effect can reduce the inflammation on your skin. Third, it has seabuckthorn oil, which is rich in vitamins E and C. This oil is a healing agent and an anti-oxidant too. The combination of all these ingredients makes this moisturizer ideal for rosacea sufferers.
Aveeno Ultra Calming Moisturizer
After a week of use, Aveeno Ultra Calming Moisturizer can greatly reduce the redness of your skin. It contains feverfew extract, which calms the skin and provides anti-oxidant benefits as well. This is formulated for sensitive skin and has a sunscreen of SPF 15.
These are just some of the products that you may use for your face if you are suffering from rosacea. If the first product you try causes any redness or irritation, stop right away and switch to another. It may take several trials and errors before you finally find a product that will work well with your skin, but it comes with the territory of having this sensitive skin condition. Just remember that even if rosacea has no cure, you can and will find products that will provide nourishment for your skin and reduce your symptoms.
