Tips for Routine Facial Cleansing

In addition to medical therapy, a gentle twice-daily facial cleansing routine can help keep your rosacea under control. Here are some tips that will leave your skin clean without aggravating your condition.

Use a very mild soap or non-soap cleanser. Any products that might irritate skin are not useful.

Massage cleanser with your fingertips. A soft pad or washcloth may also be gently used, but patients should avoid rough or abrasive materials, loofahs, brushes or sponges.

Rinse the face with lukewarm water. Avoid temperature extremes, especially hot water, which may cause flushing.

Dry the face gently. Blot with a soft and thick cotton towel. Never pull, tug, scrape or scratch.
Air dry before applying medication. Let your face dry until surface moisture is gone. Then apply any topical medication that has been prescribed. Let the face dry again before using any moisturizers, sunscreen, makeup or other skin-care products.

Avoid irritating skin-care products. Eliminate or find alternatives for any skin-care products that sting, burn, irritate or cause redness.