Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness in the face along with dry, rough itchy or scaling skin. What causes rosacea is not entirely understood, but certain risk factors are believed to contribute to the condition. While doctors may prescribe creams, lotions or pills for rosacea treatment, many are able to control their symptoms through a healthy diet and lifestyle. (1)
Rosacea Causes and Risk Factors
- Problems with blood vessels in the skin
- Sun damage/UV radiation
- Inflammation
- Demodex, a microscopic mite that is a normal inhabitant of human facial skin
- Reactions and side effects to certain medications
- Genetics
- Having light, sensitive skin and eyes
Rosacea Symptoms
- Redness in the face, especially toward the center in the cheeks and nose
- Spider veins
- Swelling and painful skin
- Sensitive skin
- Stinging and burning in the skin
- Easily blushing when embarrassed
- Acne-like breakouts and overly oily skin
- Large, visible and inflamed pores
- Raised patches of skin called plaques
- Bumpy texture to the skin
- Parts of the skin that thicken
- Sensitivity of the skin around the eyes
Types of Rosacea
- Subtype 1 (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea): Characterized by facial redness, flushing and visible blood vessels
- Subtype 2 (papulopustular rosacea): Characterized by acne-like breakouts and sensitivity, persistent redness, bumpa and pimples
- Subtype 3 (phymatous rosacea): Characterized by swelling, fluid retention, thickening skin, redness and various symptoms from other subtypes
- Subtype 4 (ocular rosacea): Characterized by rosacea around the eyes (2)
Roacea Treatment
1. Identify Diet Triggers
Skin inflammation can be a sign of a food allergy or sensitivity. Natural treatments for rosacea includes an anti-inflammatory diet free of potential allergens. Foods that act as home remedies for rosacea include:- Organic fruits and vegetables: Organic produce contains antioxidants, vitamin and minerals that help protect the skin. Leafy greens along with orange and yellow fruits and vegetables are especially helpful for fighting skin damage.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, coconut oil, nuts, seeds and avocado can help fight inflammation and manage stress levels.
- Anti-inflammatory foods and herbs: Herbs and foods for rosacea treatment include turmeric, ginger, garlic, onions, tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables and green tea. (3)
- Potential allergens: Common allergens include dairy, gluten, shellfish, seafood, nuts and eggs.
- Caffeine and alcohol: Alcohol and caffeine can increase facial redness and flushing.
- Sugar and processed foods: Sugar causes inflammation and can easily aggravate skin disorders. Avoid processed and packaged foods along with artificial sweeteners and ingredients.
- Fried foods: Refined vegetable oils including corn, soybean, sunflower, safflower and canola oils are high in omega-6 fats. Avoid fried foods, trans fats and hydrogenated oils to help reduce inflammation.