What makes psoriasis so frustrating is that no one knows for certain exactly what causes the problem, although recent studies suggest it may be related to an immune system problem. Referred to as an immune-mediated disorder, it triggers inflammation and sets off a trigger that causes the skin to make too many cells at breakneck […]

Though dramatic, the heartbreak of psoriasis was a phrase used for years to describe this chronic skin condition. Psoriasis is identified by the presence of thickened, scaly areas of skin sometimes accompanied by papules (small, solid, often-inflamed bumps that, unlike pimples, do not contain pus or sebum). These bumps are usually slightly elevated above the […]

the basics Twice a day: Gentle cleanser Recommended cleansers: CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser; Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser; Clinique Liquid Facial Soap Extra Mild; Eucerin Redness Relief Soothing Cleanser; Paula’s Choice Skin Recovery Cleanser for Normal to Very Dry Skin; Paula’s Choice One Step Face Cleanser for Normal to Oily/Combination Skin. TWICE a day: Toner with antioxidants, […]

One of the more expensive ways to treat a selection of rosacea-related problems is with various lasers, including PDL (pulsed dye laser) or light emitting devices (IPL—Intense Pulsed Light). Lasers and IPLs are most successful at reducing and even possibly eliminating dilated blood vessels, persistent redness, swelling, enlarged pores, and skin thickening. What makes these […]

Several lifestyle factors can make rosacea worse, although these are not the same for everyone because people have different reactions to the same ingredients or external ele­ments. These catalysts can include hot liquids, spicy foods, exposure to extreme temperatures (including cooking over a hot stove), alcohol consumption, sunlight, stress, saunas, hot tubs, smoking, rubbing or […]

Having to explore and experiment is one of the most troublesome aspects of dealing with rosacea because no single treatment or protocol works for everyone. With that in mind, retinoids can be worth a try even though there isn’t much research supporting their use. Both Renova (active ingredient tretinoin) and Differin (adapalene) would be two […]

Oral antibiotics have long been used to successfully treat rosacea, but because there is growing concern about prolonged treatment causing bacterial resistance—both for the individual taking the medication and the population as a whole—it has taken a back seat to other options. Yet oral antibiotics truly make a difference in the appearance of rosacea, and […]

In December of 2002 the FDA approved azelaic acid as a topical prescription treatment for mild to moderate rosacea. Azelaic acid, in concentrations of either 15% or 20%, is an interesting, versatile ingredient that is prescribed not only for rosacea but also for acne and brown skin discolorations. It can have some irritating side effects […]

As stated above, no one really knows what causes rosacea, though one of the possibili­ties is that the presence of a microbe under the skin causes the symptoms. Killing off the microbe seems to be the most helpful way to improve the appearance of skin and, if caught early enough, keep matters from getting worse. […]