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Medical Author:

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Gary W. Cole, MD, FAAD

Dr. Cole is board certified in dermatology. He obtained his BA degree in bacteriology, his MA degree in microbiology, and his MD at the University of California, Los Angeles. He trained in dermatology at the University of Oregon, where he completed his residency.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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Diminishing facial flushing by limiting exposure to hot liquids or foods ought to be beneficial. Certain substances are thought to exacerbate rosacea and should be avoided if possible. They include nitrates, certain anti-hypertensive medications, nicotine, niacin, and MSG (monosodium glutamate). Exercise in hot environments and windburn may lead to facial redness. Smoking tobacco products should be avoided.

Green-tinted cosmetic makeup can be useful in camouflaging the red component of rosacea.

People with rosacea are felt to have a low threshold for facial irritation, so bland emollients (moisturizers) are best used in such patients. Appropriate emollients are stiff creams that come in wide-mouthed jars and do not flow. They should be applied to wet skin. Many rosacea patients complain of sensitivity to sunlight, so the application of sunscreens can be of benefit and is a recommended practice for all individuals to minimize the risk of skin cancer.

Although the overuse of potent topical steroids is known to produce a condition called steroid rosacea, the use of 1% hydrocortisone cream (generally available without a prescription) can reduce the redness and inflammation in rosacea. It is claimed that certain commercially available topical creams containing ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid (CeraVe Facial Moisturizing Lotion PM) may ameliorate some of the signs of rosacea. There is some evidence to suggest that oxymetazoline, the active component of many long-acting nasal decongestants, may also be effective in reducing vasodilatation seen in rosacea.

A small study indicated that green tea cream had a beneficial effect on rosacea. Products containing this substances are probably safe to use and can be purchased online.

Chrysanthellum indicum cream and licorice root are said to be helpful for some patients.

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