Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that can worsen over the years if not properly managed. If you have redness on your face or experience burning or tingling sensations that may be accompanied by spots, you are likely suffering from this skin disorder. Discover our advice for reducing rosacea and living more comfortably with it.
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How to alleviate rosacea?
Rosacea being a chronic condition, there is no definitive curative treatment. However, a dermatologist can prescribe several soothing and calming treatments to reduce the symptoms. If you suffer from rosacea, you can also take some additional precautions to prevent rosacea flare-ups.
Apply sunscreen.
The first step to take if you are suffering from rosacea is to apply a sunscreen every morning with an SPF of at least 50. If you need to be exposed to the sun for extended periods, avoid direct radiation by wearing a hat and trying to stay in the shade. It has indeed been shown that the sun's UVB rays, which are very energetic, are likely to interact with the TRVP4 receptors of the epidermis, partly responsible for the deterioration of skin tissues. The stimulation of these receptors triggers nociceptive mechanisms and a change in the structure of the skin.
Hydrate the face with a suitable treatment.
A skin suffering from rosacea requires a gentle and soothing moisturiser to calm it. The application of creams based on hyaluronic acid for instance, allows for deep skin hydration, while also protecting it against external aggressions and free radicals. To supplement your skin's hydration, you can also use a care product enriched with bisabolol. This active ingredient, known for its soothing and healing properties, can alleviate the sensations of irritation and burning that are characteristic of rosacea.
Avoid trigger foods...
The consumption of certain foods is discouraged when suffering from rosacea. Indeed, studies have shown that spicy foods such as chilli, pepper or bell pepper are likely to interact with certain receptors that have nociceptive and inflammatory roles. It is also advised against consuming alcoholic beverages or foods high in histamine (tomatoes, citrus fruits...) or in cinnamaldehyde (cinnamon) in case of rosacea. These tend to have a vasodilatory effect and cause hot flushes and the appearance of redness.
... and prioritise the consumption of certain foods.
On the contrary, the consumption of certain foods can be beneficial and reduce rosacea flare-ups. The caffeine in particular has vasoconstrictive properties and can help limit outbreaks. Furthermore, vitamin B2, found in green vegetables and rice, and zinc, found in seafood and certain meats, stimulate certain signalling pathways that trigger anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
Sources
Thèse de Kelly ZAROUKIAN. Étude des aspects cliniques cellulaires et moléculaires de la rosacée, des traitements dermo-cosmétiques associés ainsi que de l’impact sur la qualité de vie des patients (2017).
STEINHOFF M. & al. Recent advances in understanding and managing rosacea. F1000 Research (2018).
TAN J. & al. Rosacea: New concepts in classification and treatment. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2021).
ALI F. & al. Rosacea. British Journal of Hospital Medicine.(2021).
