Rosacea Skin Care is Sensitive Skin Care

Highly sensitive skin is characteristic of rosacea. Rosacea sufferers have very sensitive skin that requires special care. Changing one's skin-care routine can go a long way toward relieving the unsightly symptoms of rosacea.

To properly care for your skin, keep in mind the following factors.

Cleansing the skin should remove dirt without upsetting your skin’s protective layers or natural pH balance. Everyday soaps and cleansers are often harsh, causing dryness and irritation. Because rosacea–prone skin can be easily irritated, it is important to cleanse with a non-irritating, soap-free, oil-free and fragrance-free, gentle skin cleanser. Use as small an amount of cleanser as possible and apply it gently with your fingers. Rinse with plenty of lukewarm water and blot with a soft towel.

There is no substitute for medical treatment in the effective management of rosacea. A basic rule to follow is to apply your rosacea treatment lightly across the affected areas only and allow it to dry before applying moisturizer, makeup or sunscreen. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Often you will need to experiment with several sunscreens before finding the one that suits you. Apply your sunscreen often and liberally to all exposed areas when outdoors, whether during the summer or winter. Consult your pharmacist for additional information on sunscreens.

Rosacea and other skin conditions noted for dryness can upset your facial skin’s normal protective barrier. To help restore moisture without causing irritation, apply a long-lasting water-based moisturizer in a cream or lotion formulation. Make sure you choose a product that does not contain fragrances or lanolin.

Maintain your skin’s normal healthy state by cleansing and moisturizing your face once in the morning and again before bedtime.

Avoid pulling or scratching your facial skin; do not use loofahs, brushes, hard sponges or rough towels on your face.

Keep your face well protected when outdoors in cold or windy weather; always use a scarf to cover your cheeks and nose.

Drink a lot of water.

Use a humidifier to offset the drying effects of indoor heating.

Reduce your bathing time; use lukewarm, instead of steaming-hot water.

Stay away from harsh cleansers and astringents that over-dry your skin or any substance that causes redness or stinging.

Avoid alcohol-containing shaving creams or gels; do not use after-shave lotions.

Use an electric shaver rather than a blade, which might cause further irritation. If you use a blade, replace it regularly to avoid scraping.

Avoid skin care products that contain any one of the following ingredients: witch hazel, menthol, peppermint, salicylic acid, eucalyptus oil or clove oil.

Use natural fiber fabrics, other than wool, close to your face or against the skin. Cotton, linen, silk and hemp are soft, breathable and non-irritating.

Choose light, oil-free makeup products. They are safe to use and effective in countering the impact a rosacea flare-up may have on your appearance.