How can I calm a rosacea flare-up?

To calm a rosacea flare-up, it’s important to avoid triggers and use a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and skin care strategies. Using cool compresses and gentle, fragrance-free moisturisers and over-the-counter rosacea treatments containing vitamin B3 can soothe itchy, irritated skin.

One of the most challenging aspects of living with rosacea is dealing with flare-ups, which can cause discomfort, pain, and embarrassment. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to calm a rosacea flare-up and reduce your symptoms.

One option for reducing the redness associated with a rosacea flare-up is to apply brimonidine. This is a topical gel that works by constricting the blood vessels in the affected area, which can help reduce redness and flushing. This medication is generally safe and effective for most people with rosacea, although it can sometimes cause side effects like skin irritation and dryness.

In addition to medication, there are other steps you can take to calm a rosacea flare-up. First, it is important to identify and avoid triggers that can worsen your symptoms, such as spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures. It may also be helpful to use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products and to protect your skin from the sun.

If you are experiencing itchy, irritated skin during a rosacea flare-up, applying a cool, damp compress to the affected area can help soothe your skin and reduce redness and rosy cheeks. You can also use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser containing vitamin B3 (niacinamide) to help hydrate and protect your skin and settle inflammation. Some over-the-counter preparations (e.g. Propaira Rozaway cream) contain soothing compounds such as bisabolol and colloidal outmeal.

For some people with rosacea, laser treatments may be an effective option for reducing redness and visible blood vessels. Laser treatment works by targeting the blood vessels beneath the skin and causing them to shrink, which can help reduce redness and improve the overall appearance of the skin. This type of treatment is generally safe and well-tolerated, although it can sometimes cause temporary redness and swelling.

Calming a rosacea flare-up involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and skincare strategies. Brimonidine can be an effective option for reducing redness and flushing associated with a rosacea flare-up, while avoiding triggers, using cool compresses and gentle moisturisers can help soothe itchy, irritated skin. For some individuals, laser treatment may be an effective option for reducing redness and improving the appearance of rosacea, including red cheeks and visible blood vessels. It is important to consult with a dermatologist or GP with qualifications in rosacea management to determine the best treatment approach for your individual needs.