Rosacea is an inflammatory skin disorder affecting 10% of the population, with a higher prevalence in females, fair skinned individuals and people over 30 years of age3,4,6,8,9. The exact cause of rosacea is yet to be elucidated, however a genetic link has been suggested4,8,10. It predominantly affects the chin, nose, cheeks and the forehead, and typically moves through phases of exacerbation and remission3,10.
ROSACEA
ROSACEA
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin disorder affecting 10% of the population, with a higher prevalence in females, fair skinned individuals and people over 30 years of age3,4,6,8,9. The exact cause of rosacea is yet to be elucidated, however a genetic link has been suggested4,8,10. |  |
 | There are many trigger factors involved in the exacerbation of rosacea symptoms including:
The Demodex mite has also been implicated in the exacerbation of rosacea, with increased numbers being found within affected skin, especially in cases where papules and pustules are present4,8,10. It has been suggested that defective skin immune function may allow for greater numbers of this mite within the sebaceous gland and the affected skin of Rosacea sufferers, and with greater numbers comes an exacerbation of inflammation4,8. |
| UV exposure has also been implicated in rosacea amid concerns associated with UV radiation alongside the heat produced by the sun which can trigger symptoms8,10. UV induced free radical damage has also been connected, and has the potential to cause damage to skin structures via inflammation which again exacerbates the symptoms 2,6,8,10. Antioxidant levels are decreased in rosacea due to higher levels of free radicals within the skin, hence the internal free radical defence system is compromised which can lead to skin damage due to oxidative stress2,6,10. Due to the above processes changes to the skins structure can be noted in rosacea including:
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| | Generally rosacea starts with symptoms of transient flushing and skin redness, however over time as the skin loses structure and strength the symptoms tend to persist for longer and become more prominent4,10. Constant triggering of symptoms can lead to worsening of the condition as a continuous cycle4,9,10. Common symptoms associated with rosacea may include some or all of the following:
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| The use of appropriate skincare for rosacea sufferers is essential1,7. Skincare for rosacea is based around reducing the symptoms of skin inflammation, redness, flushing, poor barrier function, dryness, dehydration and reactivity1,4. Sunscreens are essential for addressing UV exposure to reduce UV associated skin damage, triggering of symptoms and also to decrease free radical damage1,4,5,7,11. Sunscreens containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide tend to be better tolerated by rosacea clients1,7. Due to the situation of oxidative stress caused by free radicals, antioxidants assist with supporting the internal antioxidant systems to reduce free radical damage4,6. Antioxidants are often used in combination with anti-inflammatory botanical ingredients such as Ginko biloba, green tea, Aloe vera, allantoin and licorice1. Vitamin A/retinoids can assist with rebuilding the skin which will give it strength over time, hence lowers exacerbation periods7,11. The use of camouflage makeup is also beneficial for rosacea to improve the self-esteem of the client1,5. It is important to note that if cosmetic interventions are no longer successful, medical treatment may be required5. | |
