Apply topical medication first, allow it to dry, then
apply moisturizer.
According to many dermatologists, moisturizer is key for preventing the burning, stinging, itching and irritation often associated with rosacea, as well as building a strong moisture barrier to help keep out impurities and irritants that may aggravate sensitive skin.
Rosacea often involves a defective moisture barrier in the facial skin as well as increased moisture evaporation (transepidermal water loss), both of which may contribute to the skin’s irritability and susceptibility to inflammation. In addition, rosacea usually appears after age 30, when facial skin naturally tends to become drier. It has been estimated that approximately half of all rosacea sufferers experience dry skin, and therefore winter or dry weather may pose particular difficulties for individuals with rosacea. Dry air — both outdoors and in buildings that are warmed with a dry heat — intensifies the challenge to already-sensitive skin.
There are many facial moisturizers that have been developed specifically to manage the signs and symptoms of rosacea. These are specially formulated with ingredients intended to calm and soothe facial skin and to help prevent redness from irritation. Some moisturizer ingredients that may be beneficial for rosacea skin include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, vitamin C, aloe and, depending on your particular skin, niacinamide. Some moisturizers also contain sheer green color neutralizers to correct the appearance of redness. Used daily, moisturizers can help soothe irritation, improve appearance and restore the skin’s proper functioning.
Applying moisturizer to your face should not reduce the effectiveness of topical medication. First, clean your face with a mild cleanser and let it air dry. Then apply your topical medication and allow it to dry. After that, you should be able to follow up with any moisturizer or make-up products without interfering with your medical therapy.
Rosacea patients with sensitive skin might try a moisturizer combined with a sunscreen, which may be gentler and less likely to cause skin irritation. Those who shave their face may wish to use a moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin to help soothe the skin after shaving.
For useful advice on caring for skin with rosacea, visit these areas of the site: