A Rosacea Skincare Journey

Dr. JD Rich, a seasoned optometrist at Family Focus Eyecare and the visionary behind Retuva Medical Spa, knows firsthand the challenges of living with rosacea. As he approached his 30th birthday, he noticed a persistent rosy hue on his cheeks, accompanied by papules reminiscent of his teenage struggles with acne.

Confusion and frustration set in, prompting him to delve into forums and medical literature in search of answers. His quest led him to a breakthrough: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, a revolutionary treatment targeting inflammation at its source. With IPL, Dr. Rich found a powerful ally in managing his rosacea, though he acknowledges that it's a chronic condition with its ups and downs.

For Dr. Rich, living with rosacea means navigating a minefield of triggers, from outdoor exposure to seasonal allergies. But armed with IPL and a comprehensive toolkit of strategies, he strives to maintain a clear complexion and empathizes deeply with others facing similar battles.

Through his own journey, Dr. Rich has gained invaluable insights and practical tips for managing rosacea, which he shares with others seeking relief and confidence in their skin.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a common, chronic, skin condition that causes flushing or long-term redness of the face. It may also cause blood vessels to appear on your cheeks, chin, and nose along with small, acne-like bumps that flare up for weeks to months and then may disappear for some time.

Rosacea patients often experience itching, stinging, and burning sensations on affected skin; which when accompanied by visible skin changes, can make sleeping, concentration, and social interactions difficult.

Rosacea currently has no cure and, if left untreated, can result in permanent scarring of the face and severe dry eyes.  Often rosacea is misidentified as acne, dermatitis, and  other skin conditions. However, with proper medication, gentle skincare routines, and avoiding triggers, you can manage your rosacea symptoms effectively.

Papules are small, raised bumps on the skin that are typically less than 1 centimeter in diameter. They are often red or pink in color and may feel tender or sensitive to the touch. In the context of rosacea, papules can be a common symptom, appearing as small, inflamed lesions on the cheeks, nose, forehead, or chin. They differ from pimples or pustules in that they don't contain pus. Instead, they result from inflammation and swelling of the skin's deeper layers.

Learn What Triggers Your Rosacea

"Understanding your rosacea triggers is essential," emphasizes Dr. Rich. "Daily occurrences such as overheating or stress can trigger flare-ups." Dr. Rich suggests avoiding allergens, as they can exacerbate inflammation, and limiting consumption of spicy foods and alcohol. If you notice yourself participating in activities or consuming substances that usually result in flare-ups, consider these strategies to help mitigate symptoms.

To prevent flare-ups triggered by heat, Dr. Rich recommends being aware of these triggers and doing your best to avoid or limit exposure time outdoors or in saunas and hot tubs.

Protect Your Skin From the Sun
Sunlight can exacerbate rosacea by triggering inflammation and increasing redness. Protecting the skin from UV rays with sunscreen, hats, and seeking shade can significantly help in managing rosacea symptoms and preventing flare-ups.

Finding a sunscreen that won't irritate your sensitive skin can be a challenge. Dr. Rich recommends that you look for a sunscreen with:

• Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both
• Silicone (may be listed as dimethicone, orcyclomethicone, or cyclomethicone)
• No fragrance (label may say "fragrance free," but if it says "unscented" choose another sunscreen)
• Broad-spectrum protection
• SPF 30 or higher

When it comes to sunscreen recommendations, several options stand out. EltaMD UV Clear is a clear sunscreen ideal for acne and rosacea-prone skin, offering protection without clogging pores or exacerbating sensitive conditions. Additionally, products like Epionce Daily Shield Tinted SPF and SunBetter Tone Smart by Skin Better are excellent choices for those seeking non-irritating tinted sunscreens. These options are designed to blend seamlessly with various Fitzpatrick skin types, providing both sun protection and a natural, even complexion.

What Treatment Options for Rosacea are Available for Flare-ups?

There are several treatment options available to manage rosacea flare-ups effectively. These include:

Skin Care: Adopting good skin care practices is paramount, serving as the foundation for managing Rosacea symptoms and minimizing flare-ups and the first place to start. Even during flare-ups, it's crucial to prioritize good skincare practices, simultaneously exploring available flare-up treatment options for optimal Rosacea management.

Topical medications: Prescription creams or gels containing ingredients like azelaic acid, metronidazole, or sulfur can help reduce redness and inflammation during flare-ups.

Oral antibiotics: In cases of moderate to severe rosacea, oral antibiotics such as doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control symptoms.  FDA-approved treatment options like oral doxycycline can provide relief, but they may also increase sun sensitivity and trigger upset stomachs in many individuals. While Dr. Rich uses doxycycline himself for severe flare-ups, he advises against its long-term usage.  

Light therapy: Light-based therapies, such as intense pulsed light, (IPL), can target blood vessels and reduce redness associated with rosacea flare-ups.

IPL Treats the Symptoms of Rosacea at the Root Cause

IPL treatments work by emitting high-intensity light pulses that target the hemoglobin in blood vessels and melanin in the skin. This makes IPL an effective solution for reducing redness and addressing pigmentation concerns.

Specifically, IPL can significantly reduce redness caused by conditions like rosacea, facial flushing, or broken capillaries. The light energy is absorbed by the blood vessels, causing them to coagulate and eventually fade.

With its ability to selectively target vascular and pigmented lesions, IPL offers a versatile and non-invasive approach to improving skin tone and texture.

Redness (Erythema):
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is an effective treatment for reducing redness associated with conditions such as rosacea, facial flushing, and broken capillaries. During IPL treatment, the light energy is absorbed by the blood vessels, leading to their coagulation and eventual fading. While significant improvement can often be seen after just one session, multiple IPL sessions are typically necessary to achieve optimal results. This non-invasive procedure offers a safe and efficient solution for addressing redness and vascular concerns, helping patients achieve a more even complexion and improved skin appearance over time.

Telangiectasia:
Telangiectasia, characterized by small, dilated blood vessels near the skin's surface, can be effectively treated using Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. IPL works by targeting these vessels, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed by the body. This treatment is frequently utilized to address vessels appearing not only on the face but on legs and other areas of the body as well. IPL offers a non-invasive solution for reducing the appearance of telangiectasia, providing patients with smoother, clearer skin.

"I have literally tried every cream and pill and nothing made a lasting difference for my Rosacea until Dr. Rich recommended IPL Therapy! After a series of treatments, I no longer have raw skin or acne! " - Megan C.

Cleansing skin is essential for everyone, but it holds particular importance for those with rosacea due to the condition's sensitivity and specific triggers. Here's why cleansing is crucial for rosacea-prone skin:

• Removing Irritants: Rosacea is often triggered or exacerbated by environmental factors and irritants. Cleansing helps remove dirt, oil, makeup, and pollutants that can aggravate sensitive skin, reducing the likelihood of flare-ups.
  
  
• Maintaining Skin Barrier: Rosacea often compromises the skin's natural barrier function, making it more susceptible to irritation and inflammation. Gentle cleansing helps maintain the integrity of the skin barrier, preventing further damage and promoting healthier skin.
  
  
• Managing Symptoms: Proper cleansing can help manage common symptoms of rosacea, such as redness, inflammation, and papules. Using non-abrasive, non-comedogenic cleansers can soothe the skin and minimize discomfort.
  
  
•  Preventing Secondary Infections: Rosacea-prone skin is more susceptible to bacterial infections. Regular cleansing helps remove bacteria and impurities that could lead to infections, reducing the risk of complications.
  
  
• Enhancing Treatment Efficacy: Cleansing prepares the skin to better absorb topical medications and treatments prescribed for rosacea. By removing barriers such as excess oil and dead skin cells, cleansing ensures that medications can penetrate the skin effectively, maximizing their benefits.

When cleansing rosacea-prone skin, it's crucial to choose gentle, fragrance-free products specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol, sulfates, and exfoliants, as they can exacerbate symptoms. Additionally, always pat the skin dry gently with a soft towel and follow up with a moisturizer to help maintain hydration and further support the skin barrier.

What Skincare Products are Best to Use if I Have Rosacea?

Dr. Rich has achieved significant success in maintaining the results of IPL treatment by utilizing Skinbetter, Epionce and EltaMD skin products.

Cleansing: Epionce foaming cleanser or Epionce milky lotion cleanser, Elta MD's Foaming cleanser

AM: Alto Advanced

Afternoon: Mystro Serum (3 out of 7 days of the week)

PM: Alpha Ret followed by EltaMD Skin Recovery night mask

Products are available for purchase at Retuva Medical Spa, located at 3301 W Broadway Business Park Ct, Suite E, Columbia, Missouri. If you have any questions regarding which products best suit your needs, our professional staff will gladly assist you!

In Summary

Understanding rosacea triggers and implementing appropriate skincare recommendations can significantly improve the management of this chronic skin condition. Dr. Rich and the experienced team at Retuva Medical Spa are dedicated to providing personalized solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're seeking advice on skincare products, treatments, or lifestyle modifications, we're here to help.

Don't hesitate to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable professionals to start your journey towards healthier, clearer skin. Together, we can develop a comprehensive plan to address your rosacea concerns and enhance your overall well-being.