Rosacea is a common (~16 million people in the USA) skin condition that can present on the face, head and neck by flushing, redness, heat, pimples and visual capillaries that can get worse when not treated properly. Currently the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, however there are several theories of how rosacea has evolved over the years. The possibilities range from defects in the immune system, nervous system, facial capillaries (blood vessels) and the presence of microbes and Demodex mites. Additionally there is evidence that shows that this skin condition can be inherited.
Rosacea needs to be diagnosed by a licensed Physician and at this time isn’t curable. Good news is this condition is manageable with the ability to reduce and relieve the symptoms. Looking at the short term and long term treatment is important in managing rosacea.
There are four variations that have some similarities, however depending on your variation there are different treatments. You may find that you are in multiple categories, however look at the totality of how the condition is presenting in your skin to address accordingly.
Type 1 - Neurovascular Rosacea: Red areas presenting on the face and sometimes some areas of capillaries (blood vessels). Best course of action is topical vitamin C. Not all vitamin C’s are created the same. Our favorite is Herbal Skin Solutions. Vitamin C has an amazing ability to strengthen the capillary walls. If you have rosacea in your family this is a wonderful way to help in prevention. Use this beautiful serum morning and night under your exfoliant or treatment.
Type 2 - Inflammatory Rosacea: Along with facial redness, there are red bumps and pus-filled spots. The Acne Rosacea Skincare Set will address the inflammation and the breakouts. Check out the pictures of Ashley as she dramatically reduced the redness and breakouts on her skin.
Type 3 - Phymatous Rosacea: The skin thickens and can become bumpy and thick textured especially on the nose. Seek a physician for treatment. If this subtype is in your family be proactive with the topical vitamin C, Mandelic Acid and lots of hydration.
Type 4 - Ocular Rosacea: Inflammation of the eyes and eyelids, sometimes presenting in the face as well. Seek a physician for treatment.
With all types of rosacea the skin may experience dryness, swelling, heat, flaking, burning or itching. We want to bring down the inflammation as this can cause more damage and irritation in the skin. One amazing solution is in your kitchen. Grab an ice cube an ice your skin a minimum of two times a day. Moving the ice quickly over the face for approximately two minutes will be a new habit that you will be looking forward to! You are giving your capillaries a work out with the constricting. Capillaries are muscles and when we make them work they get stronger! Our capillaries start their life in the dermis of the skin. With age and trauma that happens to our skin the capillaries will be seen in the epidermis.
Our three step process at Over It! is what makes us so unique and creates the change in your skin you have been searching for. HYDRATE (Hydrator Serum), EXFOLIATE (Mandelic Serum), and TREAT (Acne Treatment).
We haven’t treated a single person that doesn’t need hydration in the skin. Hydration is robbed by elements, so there is a need to apply topical hydration to the skin. Hydrator is a serum, not a facial cream. Our serum is formulated to drop deep into the skin providing hydration to the cells which preps the skin to receive the next product effectively.
Mandelic Serum is anti-bacterial. One of the thoughts with rosacea is that we all have mites, called Demodex mites that live near our hair follicles (pores) and feed off the oil and dead skin cells in our pores. One theory is that rosacea has a harder time with these mites increasing and irritating the skin. Mandelic acid is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and an exfoliant to clear out the pores - reducing the desired living conditions of the mites.
Your face is a little look into what could be going on internally. If you struggle with rosacea you may have experienced flare ups. Looking back at the potential contributing factors there are some additional steps you can take that look at the body as a whole. A daily nutrient-dense probiotic will help to strengthen your immune system. Nervous system regulation has become more and more of a conversation many are having these days. Learning to be present and self aware as you fluctuate throughout the day and how your body is feeling can have tremendous benefits. Help bring your nervous system in to harmony. That might be stepping outside to take a couple of deep breaths; stop and hug someone or a pet; taking a bath; going on a walk; stretching; lighting a candle or drinking a tall glass of water. This is an area that may seem overwhelming. Start slowly and appreciate the small victories; those moments when the hard work start to pay off and you feel better!
