We all strive for great skin. The kind of greatness that we are constantly attempting to create with makeup; an even tone, with no breakouts or redness — just a completely clear canvas. The dream is, of course, that we eventually won’t need makeup to create this finish — that we’ll simply use the right concoction of skin creams to get us to a place that we’ll be able to face the world makeup-free.
But, when it comes to skin conditions like rosacea, controlling flare-ups and covering up the redness that comes with it is a constant, never-ending battle. Many sufferers learn the in’s and out’s of their ailment, and learning how to cope (with a few key tricks up their sleeve) is the best they can do.
Since there is no cure for rosacea, it’s always a balancing act — striving for new ways to cover up the redness, and figuring out how to minimize it with the help of a derm at the same time.
We spoke to cosmetic dermatology practitioner Lauren Abramowitz, founder of Park Avenue Skin Solutions, about her favorite products for concealing, and the best methods of treatment out there right now.
Protecting
"Zinc oxide is a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial. It has a calming effect for rosacea patients as well as sensitive skin patients, reducing inflammation in the skin, which is part of the ideology for acne rosacea,” says Abramowitz. She recommends looking for formulas that contain zinc oxide, like Elta MD and Replenix.
Elta MD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46, $32, available at Dermstore.
Covering Up
“This formula serves as a luminous finish on top of any zinc oxide cream. It evens out skin tone, softens imperfections, and boosts moisture levels in the skin. The pearlescent pigment in this product infuses one's natural complexion with a radiant, flawless glow.” Abramowitz tells us.
Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint, $55, available at Sephora.
Topical Prescription Creams
There is no true known cause of rosacea, so unfortunately, there is no cure for it. But, there are some common regimens that are known to treat the flare-ups that come with it.
A proper topical regimen is crucial, says Abramowitz. This typically includes a cocktail of prescription strength and non-prescription strength creams, and at times, a short-term dose of oral antibiotics if needed for any severe flare-ups.
The Lumecca
The new gold standard in treatments for rosacea is The Lumecca, a high-powered IPL treatment. Initially, the treatments are performed once per month for five to six months.
Your Diet
“I am a huge believer that nutrition and stress plays a huge role in rosacea flare-ups,” says Abramowitz. She typically advises her patients to follow the Alkaline Diet, an eating plan based around the idea that foods alter the acidity (or alkalinity) of your body. Stimulants such as coffee, tea, alcohol, and excessive sugars are vascular dilators, which according to Abramowitz can cause vascular dilation, i.e. flushing of the skin, and should be avoided.
Illustrated by Isabel Castillo.
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