Skin Care Alert: April is Rosacea Awareness Month!

For a skin disorder that affects 14 million Americans a year, medical evidence finds that as many as 78% of Americans have no knowledge about rosacea. Read on to educate yourself about this common disorder, as well as skin care tips on how to manage rosacea if you or someone you know suffers from it.

Blushing is a common expression of embarrassment or being shy, but for rosacea sufferers, a tinge of color on the cheeks gradually becomes a nuisance that can negatively impact a person's life physically, emotionally and socially.

Rosacea is a name that many may not be familiar with, but this facial skin disorder targets millions each year. While many don't know what it is, there are even more people who have symptoms but don't realize it. What is rosacea? Who does it affect? What can be done? The answers to these questions can be found not only in this article, but will also be brought to the public's attention throughout the month of April, which is Rosacea Awareness Month.

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin disorder that targets the cheeks, nose, forehead and/or chin. It usually appears between the ages of 30-60 and is often mistaken for sunburn or blushing. That may not sound like such a bad deal but if left untreated, rosacea can result in bumps, pimples, burning, stinging, itching and--in severe cases--thickening of the skin due to the enlargement of excess tissue. In 60% of cases, rosacea has even attacked the eye area, leading to vision problems.

The Challenge

The bad news is that rosacea cannot be cured and is a chronic and relapsing condition. There are treatments and medication but those who have it will most likely have to deal with flare-ups throughout their lives. Medical studies show that 68% of sufferers say the condition has lowered their self-esteem, while 41% say it's so bad to the point where they avoid public contact or social gatherings.

Rosacea Awareness Month

Throughout April organizations such as the National Rosacea Society will be holding public educational activities to increase awareness about rosacea, as well as providing resources and other helpful information for early diagnosis and treatment. With 10% of rosacea sufferers not seeking treatment, it is vital that the general pubic acknowledges the presence of this stressful skin disorder.

The Solutions

In these cases, putting together an effective skin care routine and making necessary lifestyle changes are vital to making this condition manageable. Dermatologists and websites such as www.Rosacea.org stress the importance of paying attention to your skin.

• Be sure to note any recent changes in your lifestyle, routine or diet that may have caused your outbreak or flare-up. Make changes as needed so that it doesn't happen again. These changes may include avoiding sun, wind, spicy foods, and alcoholic or heated beverages.
• Visit your dermatologist who can help guide you down the proper path to managing your rosacea.
• Create a daily facial skin care routine so that your skin always stays in the best of health. Use a gentle water-based cleanser that isn't grainy or rough on your skin, and use your fingertips to apply it instead of rough cloths that can be harsh.
• Always remember to use lukewarm water instead of water that is too hot or too cold.
• Pat your face dry--don't rub.
• Use proper topical medication afterwards and wait a few minutes for your skin to completely absorb it.
• Use makeup to cover up any problem areas. There are a number of brands that specialize in camouflaging problem skin. Even tinted moisturizers work well to counter the appearance of a red face. Be sure to consult with a skin care or makeup specialist so you get the shade that is right for you.

La Roche-Posay Toleraine Facial Fluid works to soothe, hydrate and stabilize skin affected by rosacea, leaving it soft, refreshed, calm and fully hydrated.

MD Formulations Critical Care Calming Gel is ideal for treating flare-ups in a way that is gentle and doesn't leave any greasy residue or film. Filled with antioxidants, this product will also help to strengthen skin cells.

The ATOPALM line is famous for its calming ingredients and ability to balance even the most difficult of skin conditions, including rosacea, eczema and severely dry skin.

Source: skincare-news.com