Doc Warrick’s Derm Talk: Rosacea Triggers
Hello there!
On any given day I see at least 3 to 5 patients diagnosed with rosacea - many of whom aren’t even aware they have it. While medications and products can be really great at helping to manage the condition, there are also a few key environmental factors call “triggers” which play a major part in causing flair-ups. Knowing these triggers and how to navigate them can help a patient with rosacea lessen the physical signs which go along with this condition. While there are many different rosacea triggers, the following list is comprised of the most common:
- Sun exposure
- Exercise
- Stress / Anxiety
- Alcohol (especially red wine and champagne)
- Certain foods such as cheese, chocolate, citrus fruits, spicy dishes, and soy sauce to name a few
- Hot baths, showers, and saunas
- Cosmetics containing witch hazel or strong fragrances
All triggers affect each individual differently and to varying degrees. Finding out and recording a list of your own personal triggers are key elements in managing your rosacea. If you’ve noticed any possible symptoms of rosacea, it never hurts to have a dermatologist take a look and give a second opinion. Remember that if rosacea or any other skin condition is left untreated, they often get worse as opposed to clearing up on their own. It can be something as simple as adding a green-tinted, redness correcting product to your
skin care regimen or avoiding one of the common triggers as much as possible, but you will never know your options until you have it checked out.
Until then, I hope you are enjoying Spring in the Lowcountry and don’t forget to wear your sunscreen!
- Doc Warrick
More than Flushing, Blushing & Break-Outs
Shining light on the often misunderstood skin condition of Rosacea.
The common skin condition referred to as rosacea affects more than 16 million individuals, most between the ages of 20 to 50 and many of whom are unaware of their condition. Characterized by the signature red or “ruddy” look on the cheeks, central forehead or nose, rosacea is often mistakenly referred to as adult acne. However, as you can see in the photo above, rosacea is more than acne blemishes - which are a trait of the condition - but visible, widened blood vessels present on the face as well. The direct cause of rosacea is unknown and the severity of the condition can vary upon the individual.
Rosacea patients have sensitive skin which can be easily irritated by products and triggers in the environment. (Doc Warrick dives into common Rosacea triggers in his Derm Talk below!) A hot, stinging sensation during or after flushing episodes can present itself which brings discomfort for the individual. The acne-like blemishes can also be not only painful, but embarrassing for the patient. This brings up another side of the condition which patients find themselves navigating during flushes or episodes.
Rosacea can have social and psychological implications on the patient as well as medical. While navigating the landmine of triggers, an individual with rosacea can find themselves doing a lot of explaining to friends and strangers alike. According to the National Rosacea Society an estimated 78% of the population is undereducated in regards to rosacea. Assumptions can easily be made relating acne blemishes or papules to poor hygiene or the flushed appearance being attributed to alcohol consumption. Large percentages of those with rosacea have reported the condition has affected their social or professional interactions, and some have even reported calling out to work due to flare-ups.
While it can not be completely cured, it can however be managed with various medications, skin care products or laser treatments. Check out our
Rosacea & Redness Board on Pinterest during Rosacea Awareness Month for more helpful products and management tips. If you suspect you may have symptoms of rosacea, please contact our office to schedule a consultation.
Product of the Week: SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel
• Oil-free hydrating gel, optimal for sensitive skin.
• Botanical extracts such as thyme to help soothe and calm irritated skin.
• Contains the anti-inflammatory agent of cucumber.
• Helps reduce redness for patients with Rosacea or acne prone skin.
• Combining this product with a laser treatments can alleviate visual signs of post-treatment redness.
*”Phyto Corrective Gel also contains natural alternatives to hydroquinone and other chemical skin lighteners to help diminish the appearance of brown spots and promote a clear, fresh-looking complexion.” - SkinCeuticals
Learn more about SkinCeuticals Phyto Corrective Gel and all the SkinCeuticals products we carry here.
April is Rosacea Awareness Month. Are you one of the 16 million people living with Rosacea? Curious which products we often recommend for patients with this skin condition? Take a look at our Rosacea & Redness Relief product board on Pinterest to learn more about how to help your flare-ups.
Vbeam Perfecta Laser Treatment for Rosacea
Patients will often inquire about laser treatments for their Rosacea. At Dermatology & Laser Center of Charleston we utilize the Vbeam Perfecta laser, a Pulsed Dye Laser, to help diminish the appearance of redness associated with Rosacea.
The Candela Vbeam Perfecta sets the standard for technology and safety, and has been successfully in use since the 1980’s. While most patients will report feeling a warming or tingling sensation during treatments, as the light is being absorbed by the blood vessels. During the Vbeam Perfecta treatment, the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) is protected by Candela’s exclusive dynamic cooling method, DCD, which sprays a cooling mist onto the targeted area of skin before each laser pulse, maximizing comfort and protecting the skin during treatment.
Depending on the individual, treatment packages for the Vbeam Perfecta generally average a series of 5 sessions with maintenance at 9 to 12 months. This treatment works well in conjunction with the patient’s Rosacea skin care regimen.
Below you will see an individual’s Before & After photos after being treated with the Candela Vbeam Perfecta Laser:
Before After
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To be considered a candidate for the Vbeam laser, an individual must be seen and evaluated by a provider. If you would like to learn more about the Vbeam Perfecta, please continue reading here. You may request a consultation by contacting us via email as well.
April is Rosacea Awareness Month. Learn more about this skin condition here.
Product of the Week: Avène Redness Relief Soothing Cream
- Three powerful ingredients combine to work in helping reduce the appearance of redness and blotchiness, caused by Rosacea.
- Avène Thermal Spring Water soothes and softens the skin, while the cream moisturizes and the SPF 25 protects from daily UV sun exposure.
- The slightly green tint aids in neutralizing and diminishing red skin tones.
- Avène Redness Relief Soothing Cream is also shown to reduce the frequency of recurring flushes and preventing future redness.
To learn more about Avène Redness Relief Soothing Cream and all of our Avène products, please continue reading here.
April is Rosacea Awareness Month. Are you one of the 16 million people living with Rosacea? Curious which products we often recommend for patients with this skin condition? Take a look at our Rosacea & Redness Relief product board on Pinterest to learn more about how to help your flare-ups.
Question: What can trigger a Rosacea flare-up?
Answer: Rosacea flare-ups can be triggered by a number of things including heat, stress, and regular activities such as cleaning the house or doing yard work. It is important to note that triggers may not be the exact same for every person. One may see a flare from a glass of wine while another may have a stronger reaction to colder weather as opposed to warmer weather. Keep watch as to what factors can be possible triggers for your Rosacea and take measures to either avoid them, remove yourself before a flare-up occurs, or prepare yourself (for example: when traveling) to handle any flare-ups with appropriate products so as to not disrupt your life.
To read an extended list of Rosacea triggers and tips to coping with them, please continue reading here: Rosacea Triggers from the AAD
April is Rosacea Awareness Month. Learn more about this skin condition which affects an estimated 16 million people here.
Product of the Week: glominerals Redness Relief Powder
Reduce redness on the spot with the glominerals Redness Relief Powder. With ingredients such as honeysuckle, caffeine and zinc oxide, this light yellow powder soothes your skin while neutralizing surface redness.
• Wear daily and reapply as needed to reduce the appearance of redness.
• Recommended for all skin types, including sensitive, acne-prone & Rosacea.
• Formulated with glominerals’ exclusive blend of antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E and green tea, it provides nutrients that are vital to maintaining skin’s healthy radiance.
Learn more about our glominerals makeup line here. Today’s Product of the Week also happens to be our April Product of the Month! For the month of April, all glominerals makeup products and brushes are 20% off!
April is Rosacea Awareness Month. Learn more about this skin condition here.
