Skincare and Makeup Tips for Rosacea

April is Rosacea Awareness Month, which is an important opportunity to raise awareness and educate people about this skin condition that affects about 16 million people in the U.S. Often, people miss the early signs of rosacea or choose to ignore them after assuming the symptoms are temporary. Unfortunately, without treatment, the effects can persist and worsen so it is important to consult with a dermatologist for appropriate treatment and tips on management.

Typical symptoms include redness, flushing, bumps, pimples, visible blood vessels, which may progress to more severe symptoms such as skin plaques and thickening, irritation of the eyes, burning and stinging sensations, as well as swelling.

One of the most important aspects of managing rosacea is to follow a skincare routine that does not irritate your skin. Follow these tips:

  • Use a gentle cleanser that suits your skin type
  • Avoid using a washcloth – instead use your fingertips to gently spread the cleanser in small circular motions
  • Rinse with lukewarm water, then blot dry with a clean soft towel
  • Apply topical medications after skin is completely dry, then wait 5-10 minutes to apply a moisturizer and other products

When applying makeup, be mindful of the following:

  • The less products you use, the less irritated your skin may be. Using multi-functional products, such as tinted moisturizers with SPF can be helpful
  • Choose green-tinted products, as they help to visually correct the redness associated with rosacea
  • Instead of using a sponge or fingertips, use a brush to apply foundations and concealers
  • Use oil-free and mineral-based products to minimize irritation
  • Avoid red shades for blush and lip colors, which could emphasize redness

If you suspect rosacea or have any other concerns about your skin, hair, or nails, consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Juan Vaillant at Old Bridge Dermatology. Dr. Vaillant specializes in dermatology, as well as anatomic and clinical pathology to help patients who have common issues like acne, rosacea, dandruff, eczema, dermatitis, age spots, skin cancer, hair loss, and psoriasis. Contact our Old Bridge, NJ office at (732) 679-0222 for an appointment!