Expert tips to take control of rosacea

“ROSACEA is a fascinating and mysterious skin condition: it ranges from simple cosmetic
discomfort to a profound impact on quality of life, which is not always proportional to the severity of symptoms. The key symptom is redness, which is never a good sign on the face, but the diagnosis is not always an easy one; the clinical signs are caused by complex mechanisms. The variety of visible lesions sometimes overshadows the importance of functional signs and the impact on individuals’ daily lives. " - Prof. Bernard Cribier, Dermatologist, France

Three frequently asked questions answered by a leading expert, Dr. Élodie Valin - PhD, NAOS Scientific Valorization Director

How can rosacea symptoms be prevented? 

Consulting a dermatologist and adhering to prescribed treatments are important first steps in alleviating rosacea symptoms as quickly and efficiently as possible. Applying soothing, moisturising and protective dermocosmetic products specifically developed to strengthen the skin’s barrier function, target the biological causes of vasodilation and angiogenesis, to help relieve symptoms more quickly. In the event of flushing, a cold compress can also be applied to the face for a few minutes for an immediate soothing effect. The use of a non-occlusive (non-blocking) tinted cream suitable for reactive skin is useful for concealing redness.

What practices should be avoided on a daily basis?

The first step in preventing outbreaks and flushes is to identify and avoid triggering factors as far as possible. The most common of these include alcohol, spicy foods, sun exposure and stress, but these can vary from one individual to another. In addition to medicinal treatments and associated procedures, dermocosmetic care is of real importance in the management of rosacea, not only to reduce the intensity and extent of redness, but also to relieve all the functional signs experienced by the individual (dryness, tightness, tingling, discomfort, pain). Reactive skin with rosacea requires the use of suitable cosmetic care products with optimum tolerance, particularly gentle cleansers and moisturisers, and regular non-occlusive sun protection with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 50. 

How can you tell the difference between rosacea and acne?

Acne and rosacea are two chronic inflammatory dermatoses that take the form of redness, papules and pustules on the face. Acne is characterised by the presence of comedones (clogged oil plugs trapped inside hair follicles) and can be responsible for scarring and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Visible small vessels are specific to rosacea. The age of the individual can help guide the diagnosis, as acne is very common in adolescents while rosacea starts later in adulthood. Lastly, acne can affect other parts of the body (torso, back), whereas rosacea only affects the central part of the face.

Information provided by NAOS.