Rosacea relief

A flare may bring facial warmth, flushing, persistent redness, burning or increased sensitivity. Some people notice pimple-like bumps as well. Symptoms can vary from day to day and may involve the central face more than the outer cheeks.

Commonly reported triggers include heat, sunlight, hot beverages, spicy meals, alcohol, vigorous exercise and emotional stress, but each person has a different pattern. Avoiding every possible trigger can make daily life unnecessarily restrictive; focus on the exposures that repeatedly precede your symptoms.

Wash with lukewarm water and a non-abrasive cleanser, pat dry and moisturise while the skin is slightly damp. Use sunscreen and a hat outdoors. During a flush, move to a cooler environment and avoid rubbing or applying harsh cooling products.

Keep a simple symptom diary and change only one product at a time. If self-care is not enough, a dermatologist can assess whether prescription treatment, Azelaic Acid Treatment, IPL Photofacial or Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment is appropriate. Do not apply someone else’s steroid or acne medicine to a red, stinging face without advice.

Seek a review for frequent flares, ongoing redness, painful bumps, worsening burning or sensitivity that interferes with sleep, work or skin care. Get urgent help for eye pain, vision changes, light sensitivity or significant eyelid swelling, which can signal eye involvement.

What triggers are most relevant to my symptoms? Which cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen ingredients should I avoid? Do I need treatment for inflammation, visible vessels or bumps, and how will we judge whether it is helping?