Rosacea sufferers tend to have an extremely sensitive skin that may be easily irritated on exposure to chemicals. Such chemicals are often present in cosmetics which, if used by a rosacea sufferer, could trigger a "flare-up" of symptoms such as redness, burning and stinging of the face.

Studies have suggested that cosmetics can be used by patients with rosacea. However, cosmetics should be:

• Noncomedogenic - i.e. should not form blackheads and blocked pores
• Nonacnegenic - i.e. should not predispose to acne
• Nonirritating to the skin
• Hypoallergenic - i.e. unlikely to cause allergy

Therefore, before applying any cosmetics, rosacea sufferers should always familiarize themselves with the product's ingredients and ensure it is suitable for their sensitive skin type.

Skin irritation and allergy

Studies have shown that patients with rosacea have a lower threshold for irritation caused by locally or topically applied creams and cosmetics. Such products can cause an itching, burning and stinging sensation across affected areas of the face. Sometimes, no allergic reaction will manifest across sensitive skin on first application of a product, but a severe allergic reaction may follow on second application. Contact dermatitis is also more common in rosacea patients.

Skin care

Commonly, individuals with rosacea have dry, thin skin but others may have oily skin or a combination of dry and oily. Whatever the skin type, rosacea sufferers should follow a skin care routine that aims to prevent irritation and therefore symptoms.

Patients with dry skin should focus on moisturizing their face to prevent it flaking or drying. Similarly, patients with oily skin should take measures to prevent symptoms, by using cleansing agents that prevent pores becoming clogged with sebum and dirt, therefore reducing the likelihood of secondary skin infection and acne developing.

Further Reading

• Rosacea - Facial Redness
• Rosacea Symptoms
• Rosacea Epidemiology
• Rosacea Subtypes
• Rosacea Causes