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Take the Redness Out With an Anti-Rosacea Gel

BellaSugar — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 11:59:05 -0800

When the complexion problems get tough, the tough go to the dermatologist. After some stubborn acne started to worsen, I headed to my dermatologist (check his acne-fighting tips here) for a visit.

He prescribed Finacea, a water-based gel with azaleic acid. It's generally used to treat rosacea, but my dermatologist said it would not only reduce redness, but also treat the acne. It's expensive, about $115, but insurance can help soften the financial blow. (Or, ahem, there are always Canadian pharmacies.) In my case, it's money well spent. I am so into this gel, it's not even funny.

From the first time I applied it, I saw amazing and quick results. The redness around my nose faded overnight, and within a few days, I found that my blackheads were coming to the surface. (All the easier to eliminate with my extractor.) Two weeks into my love affair with Finacea, I've had significantly fewer clogged pores, and most of my redness is gone. Side effects are minimal; sometimes it makes my skin itchy, but usually I don't have any problems. Obviously, you should talk with a dermatologist before looking into any prescription, but Finacea is such good stuff that I just had to let you know about it.

What You Can Do About Rosacea

BellaSugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:00:32 -0700

For the millions of people who suffer from the redness, facial flushing, and even acne-like symptoms of rosacea, it's easy to feel like there is little or nothing you can do to treat your condition. While not curable, there are many ways you can manage your rosacea so that it doesn't interfere with your life. It is important to note that while some severe forms of rosacea can look like acne, traditional acne treatments will only aggravate your condition. If you suspect you have either acne or rosacea, make a quick trip to your doctor so you can treat your condition properly.

To see some treatments and behaviors that can minimize the discomfort of the condition, read more.

Go easy on your skin: Rosacea can make already-sensitive skin even more so. If you are having a bout of redness and inflammation, treat your skin like you would a baby's. Stay out of the heat (that means no steam rooms, saunas, jacuzzi... you get my drift), and especially avoid the sun. If you do have to venture outdoors, use a baby sunblock with the highest SPF that you can find, and wear a wide-brimmed hat. It can also help to avoid exercise, and moving quickly between hot and cold temperatures. Use only an alcohol-free, gentle cleanser twice a day, and steer clear of facials, microdermabrasions, etc.
Watch what goes into your body: Staying away from spicy foods, alcohol, cigarettes, and hot drinks can help avoid triggering symptoms.
Topical treatments: A topical prescription antibiotic can help reduce moderate inflammation and red bumps. Check with your dermatologist about which one is right for you. Topical Azelaic acid gel is a non-antibiotic option, but it can also only be prescribed by your doctor.
Oral Antibiotics: Severe acne rosacea can also be addressed with the oral antibiotic, Oracea. This is a low-dose, anti-inflammatory drug that has typically lower side effects than traditional antibiotics. These are typically administered for a short-course of treatment that is usually followed up with topical treatments if needed.
Retinoids: Like cystic acne, severe rosacea can be helped with retinoids, which help renew the surface of your skin. Be careful, though; this regimen will double your skin's sun sensitivity, so a high-SPF sunblock is an absolute must at all times.

If any of you have battled rosacea, I would love to hear your stories, and in particular what treatment options worked best for you. For more information on rosacea, you can go to The National Rosacea Society.

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Definition: Rosacea

BellaSugar — Tue, 15 May 2007 15:00:42 -0700

For those of you that suffer from skin disorders or skin discoloration, you understand how upsetting these problems can be. One very common skin disease that effects nearly 16 million Americans and 65 million people worldwide is called rosacea. Fair-skinned adults and especially women are specifically prone to this facial disease.

Rosacea is redness that is usually found on the nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin. Often, it starts as subtle irritations in the center of the face and can develop into severe inflammation, which may become tender. The redness is caused when blood vessels close to the skin's surface dilate, and the skin reacts by forming elevated blotches called papules.

Rosacea can be treated - though not cured - with either topical or oral antibiotics. Sunscreen should be worn at all times to reduce irritation, and doctors may also recommend specific soaps, moisturizers, and other products to help quiet your skin. To counteract the redness of rosacea, you can try to use a yellow- or green-based concealer.

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Rosacea

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:52:45 -0700

Illustrations

Rosacea

Acne, close-up of cysts on the back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, or eyelids. It may appear as redness, prominent spider-like blood vessels, swelling, or skin eruptions similar to acne.

Alternative Names

Acne rosacea

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Although the cause of rosacea is unknown, you are more likely to develop this harmless skin condition if:

You are fair skinned.
You blush easily.
You are a woman. However, men are usually more severely affected.
You are between the ages of 30 and 50.

Rosacea involves enlargement of the blood vessels just under the skin and may be associated with other skin disorders (acne vulgaris, seborrhea) or eye disorders (blepharitis, keratitis).

Symptoms

Redness of the face in discrete areas or covering the entire face
A tendency to flush or blush easily
Increased vascularity (spider-like blood vessels called telangiectasia) of the face
A red, bulbous nose
Acne-like skin eruptions (may ooze or crust)
A burning or stinging sensation of the face
Irritated, bloodshot, watery eyes

Signs and tests

Your physician can usually diagnose rosacea with a thorough medical history and physical exam.

Treatment

There is no known cure for rosacea. The goal is to identify and avoid possible triggers, and thus reduce flare-ups. In fact, the National Rosacea Society strongly recommends that you keep a symptom diary to identify the specific triggers you may have. As you keep track of your symptoms, you should start to see a pattern within several weeks of what makes your rosacea worse. Use this information to avoid future flare-ups.

Here are some steps that may help:

Avoid sun exposure. Use sunscreen every day.
Avoid prolonged exertion in hot weather.
Try to reduce stress. Try deep breathing, yoga, or other relaxation techniques.
Limit spicy foods, alcohol, and hot beverages.

Triggers vary from person to person. Other triggers may include wind, hot baths, cold weather, specific skin products, exercise, or other factors.

Oral antibiotics (such as tetracycline, minocycline, or doxycycline) or topical antibiotics (like metronidazole) applied to your face may control skin eruptions. Other medications (isoretinol or Accutane), which are similar to vitamin A, are stronger alternatives that your doctor or dermatologist might consider.

In severe cases, laser surgery may help reduce the redness. Surgical reduction of enlarged nose tissue may also improve your appearance, if you so choose.

Expectations (prognosis)

Rosacea is not medically dangerous. It is not curable, but can usually be controlled with treatment. It may be persistent and chronic.

Complications

Permanent changes in appearance (for example, a bulbous nose)
Psychological damage, loss of self esteem

References

Habif, TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004:198-200.

Noble J. Textbook of Primary Care Medicine. 3rd ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2001:760-761.

van Zuuren EJ. Systematic review of rosacea treatments. J Am Acad Dermatol. Jan. 1, 2007: 56(1): 107-15

Review Date: 2/5/2008

Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

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Rosacea

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:31:16 -0700

Back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Rosacea is a condition where the area of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, or eyelids become inflamed. It is a chronic skin disorder that can cause redness, prominent blood vessels, swelling, or skin eruptions similar to acne. Rosacea occurs most often in fair skinned people, particularly those who blush easily. It is also more common in women.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

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Rosacea

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:33:31 -0700

Back

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Rosacea has multiple phases, beginning with flushing of the skin, followed by redness, followed by the development of small blood vessels visible in the skin. The later stage is exhibited by the red blisters on this person's cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Underlying redness and small blood vessels are also seen.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

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Reader Review of the Day: Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash

BellaSugar — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 10:00:00 -0700

Purpose Gentle Cleansing Wash ($7) has been around for years, and I always see it sitting unobtrusively on the shelf at the drugstore. It's the sort of product that has a big, loyal following, but that you don't hear much about. Reader Natalie12 decided to change all that, and she's happy to sing this unassuming cleanser's praises. She says:

"I've been using Purpose twice a day for about three years now, and I'll never change. It's not overly scented, and it's strong enough to get my makeup off at the end of the day, but not so strong and harsh that it aggravates my sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. It rinses off clean without residue, and you can't beat the price! However, I have found that it stings if I get it in my eyes, no matter what the ads say."

Is there a beauty product you can't live without and you want everyone to know? Absolutely can't stand something for which you spent your hard-earned cash? Want to see what other people think of the product you're about to buy? You need the Product Reviews page, where Bella readers can write and read all about over 50,000 beauty goodies. Check it out; there's sure to be something there for you.

Reader Review of the Day: Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser

BellaSugar — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:01:58 -0700

Here’s a classic if I’ve ever seen one. Cetaphil’s Daily Facial Cleanser ($11) is gentle and aroma-free, perfect for anyone with sensitive skin or for those who like creamy formulations. Fifty-nine readers have reviewed this iconic product, as did CRob; and, here’s why she likes it:

I've used Cetaphil for about 12 years and it's been the perfect answer to my problematic skin. I tend to be oily in the Summer, super dry in the winter; I break out occasionally, and have been diagnosed with rosacea. All the while, Cetaphil has been the best solution for treating my cranky skin kindly.

If you have a favorite cleanser, whether it’s a cream, gel, foam, or in bar form, we want to hear what you have to say about it. Head over to the Product Review section, and check out my Cetaphil review, too.

Rhinophyma

admin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 17:53:58 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Symptoms
Signs and tests
Treatment
Expectations (prognosis)
Complications
Calling your health care provider

Illustrations

Rosacea

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

Rhinophyma is a large, bulb-shaped, red-colored (ruddy) nose.

Alternative Names

Bulbous nose; Nose - bulbous; Phymatous rosacea

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Rhinophyma was once thought to be caused by heavy alcohol consumption, but this is not the case. Rhinophyma occurs equally in those who do not drink at all and those who drink alcohol in quantity. The condition is much more common in men than in women.

The cause of rhinophyma is unknown, though it is generally regarded as a severe form of rosacea. It is a relatively rare disorder involving thickening of the skin on the nose and the presence of many oil glands. The nose takes on a bulb-like (bulbous) look.

Symptoms

Symptoms involve an abnormal appearance of the nose:

Thickening
Bulb shape
May be reddish
Waxy, yellow surface

Signs and tests

Rhinophyma may usually be diagnosed without any testing. A skin biopsy may be needed to confirm the diagnosis in unusual cases.

Treatment

Surgical reshaping of the nose is the best known treatment for rhinophyma. This may be accomplished by laser, scalpel, or dermabrasion. There have been reports of good results from using certain acne medications.

Expectations (prognosis)

Rhinophyma can be corrected surgically, but the condition may recur.

Complications

Emotional distress can be caused by the change in appearance.

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of rhinophyma and would like to discuss treatment.

Review Date: 12/19/2007

Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz, Kelli A. Stacy, ELS. Previously reviewed by Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (10/26/2006).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_001037

Dr. Obagi: Moisturizers Make You Age

BellaSugar — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 07:01:07 -0700

When it comes to skin, we're all aging - whether we like it or not. Recently, I interviewed dermatologist Dr. Zein Obagi of ZO Skin Health. I asked him a few questions regarding his specialty, anti-aging skin care, and he had plenty to say. Here's a bit; more to come!

How is it that pimples and wrinkles can occur at the same time? Talk about a double whammy!
The two problems may occur at the same time, but they have different causes. Pimples are related to oil gland activity, the amount of sebum produced, and pores. Oil glands are hyperactive in some individuals (hormones, genetic factors), resulting in acne and rosacea when pores become clogged. Acne has nothing to do with age. Wrinkles are due to loss and destruction of collagen without replacement, due to cell inactivity. Both problems can and do, sometimes, occur at the same time.

What products/techniques can actually do the reverse, causing premature aging and/or wrinkling?
Moisturizers, when used daily as part of a skin care program, will accelerate aging and wrinkling of the skin, as they reduce cellular activity, causing the cells to become lazy and sensitive. Repeated AHA use, IPL [Intense Pulsed Light], and photo-rejuvenation treatments without cell stimulation, will reduce the skin's ability to regenerate healthy functioning cells.

Come back later this week for more of Dr. Obagi's thoughts on healthy aging and skin care.
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