My Tips For Treating Rosacea

I get a lot of people with rosacea writing to me – particularly at this time of year when the weather gets cooler and central heating is switched on. Allergy-prone skin can be particularly sensitive to temperature variations.

Rosacea is a common skin allergy that appears on the face - usually along the upper cheeks and nose.

Symptoms include facial redness, dilated capillaries and, in some cases, small hard spots. It is most common in women over the age of 30 and several friends of mine developed the condition during their first pregnancy.

If you suffer from rosacea it is important to avoid the following triggers:

- Caffeine
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol in skincare products
- Sunlight

Moisturise with a chemical-free moisturiser such as our Chamomile & Rosehip Cream. Rosehip is a fantastic skin healer and strengthener while Chamomile (see image) contains azulene, a natural anti-inflammatory, which will cool and calm the flushing.

Diet is also important when dealing with all skin allergies and rosacea is no exception. Try and increase your intake of Essential Fatty Acids (Omega 3, 6 & 9) as these can help calm and condition the skin from the inside. Oily fish, seeds and nuts are all good sources as are supplements like a high grade flaxseed oil.

Pcynogenol, or pine bark extract, is also believed to be a good natural remedy for rosacea as it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.