Yahoo News 4 Signs Your Redness Is Actually Rosacea
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Nathalie from Cumbria asks:
'How Do I Know If I Have Rosacea?'
Expert: Dr Johanna Ward, founder of skincare brand ZENii
This is such a common question for the simple reason that it can be difficult to differentiate rosacea - a common skin condition affecting around one in 20 people in the UK - from normal redness or flushing.
As a result, rosacea is often misdiagnosed as acne, eczema or a skin allergy. But there are a few signs to look out for if you suspect rosacea is to blame for your redness.
What causes rosacea?
While doctors don’t know the exact cause, rosacea is a result of an inherent problem with the skin barrier function. The protective lipid layer around skin cells becomes leaky, letting water out - and allowing toxins in.
Rosacea is most likely genetic, with Caucasian people more susceptible to it than those with darker skin tones. But environmental and lifestyle factors - stress, pollution, alcohol, cosmetics and spicy foods - can also trigger rosacea.
How do you know if you have rosacea?
To address your question, rosacea often begins with easy flushing and redness of the face. If these symptoms occur regularly, capillaries can break permanently, leading to lasting redness in the skin. Excessive sun exposure can accelerate this process, too.
Crucially, there are a few key signs that differentiate rosacea from redness or flushing:
Skin can feel irritated and raw.
Redness occurs in the centre of your face, around your cheeks, nose or chin.
You might have pimple-like breakouts (but no blackheads)
Your pores may appear larger, with visible blood vessels
How can you treat rosacea?
A consistent skincare routine is vital to protect, restore and calm the skin so it becomes healthier over time. If you don’t take care of your skin, cumulative sun damage, pollution and ageing will take their toll - and the skin won’t be able to compensate for the damage.
A good routine needs to include a quality cleanser, antioxidant serum, an SPF and night cream (with gentle retinol). Then you’ll need bolt-on products that will help to ease inflammation, fight free-radical damage and boost collagen.
Above all, don’t be hesitant to use skincare products if you suffer from rosacea – if they’re good quality, they’ll help the skin. Just be sure to avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol, witch hazel, camphor, sodium laurel sulphate and excessive fragrances.
As for a 'rosacea diet'? I suggest one rich in plants to ensure you get enough vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3. These all help to boost the skin barrier. Diet light on the veg? Supplementing with vitamins C, E and A and omega-3 can have a similar positive effect, too.
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