Rosacea is a chronic skin condition generally affecting fair-skinned people between ages 30 and 50. Symptoms may include flushing, redness, spider veins, swelling, and pimple-like bumps around the nose, cheeks, and chin. There is no known cure for rosacea, and in fact, doctors don’t even know what causes it. Genetics are a likely factor, but it could also involve bacteria, diet, or mites (yes, you read that correctly). Even so, there are many things you can do to minimize rosacea symptoms, and some of these home remedies do not involve prescription medication. Here are several natural treatments you can consider trying.
Vitamin C
The spider veins often seen in people with rosacea happen when the walls of the veins are overstretched or damaged. Vitamin C plays a vital role in maintaining the strength and integrity of these walls, making it an important part of rosacea treatment. The nutrient is readily available in many fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, bell peppers, strawberries, and Brussels sprouts. It can also be taken daily as a supplement.
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
While all B vitamins are important for maintaining skin health, a deficiency in riboflavin, or B2, exists in many people diagnosed with rosacea. Dietary sources of the vitamin include meat, eggs, milk, nuts, and green vegetables. B-complex supplements are also available for your consideration.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a common and well-tested treatment for many skin conditions and irritations because it promotes healing and regeneration of the epidermis. It can be used topically through lotions and creams, taken as a supplement, or consumed in foods, such as fatty saltwater fish, whole milk, eggs, and many fruits and vegetables.
Green Tea
Green tea extract has been shown to significantly reduce redness and lesions caused by rosacea. The extract can be found in many over-the-counter creams and lotions, but be sure to choose something gentle, and test it on a small part of the skin to avoid further irritation. People have also found relief by applying a cold, wet green tea bag to the affected area of skin.
Licorice Root
Licorice root extract can be used as an alternative to topical hydrocortisone because it promotes the growth of naturally occurring steroid hormones in the skin, making it an effective anti-inflammatory agent. There are many skin products on the market that use licorice extract as an active ingredient. You can also make a mask using licorice powder and aloe vera gel. Find the recipe here.
Chamomile Compress
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, chamomile can be used topically to treat symptoms of rosacea. Simply steep a few cups of chamomile tea, cool in the fridge, and use a washcloth to apply it to the face. The cold temperature will provide an additional soothing, anti-inflammatory element to the treatment.
Oatmeal
Washing the face with a gentle oatmeal cleanser or applying an oatmeal paste to the affected area is another way to treat rosacea symptoms. Oatmeal’s soothing, moisturizing, and anti-inflammatory effects make it a skincare classic for a reason.
In addition to trying some of the treatments listed above, people with rosacea should also take some baseline precautions people dealing with rosacea should take: Protect skin from sunlight with gentle sunscreen or clothing, avoid rubbing the face or using irritating products on it, and keep a log of foods and activities that seem to trigger outbreaks so that you can pinpoint patterns and eliminate causes when possible. Finally, remember that supplements and herbs come with their own sets of side effects, drug interactions, and possible allergic reactions, so do your research and talk to your doctor before adding them to your healthcare regimen.
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