Rosacea is a skin condition that involves redness or inflammation and sensitive skin. Exfoliating can increase these issues in some people with rosacea.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that typically affects the central part of the face, such as the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it’s thought to be a
The condition is more common in people with fair skin and typically begins after age 30. While there’s no cure for rosacea, people can usually reduce and control symptoms with treatment and lifestyle adjustments.
This article looks at whether people with rosacea should exfoliate their skin.
There is no definitive answer to this question. For some people, exfoliating can exacerbate their
However, if someone has rosacea, their skin is likely more sensitive and prone to irritation.
Exfoliating products may contain chemicals that are too harsh for skin with rosacea. Exfoliating with tools and scrubs may further increase skin irritation and inflammation.
People with rosacea may use a very gentle exfoliator to exfoliate. It is best to avoid harsh scrubs or chemical exfoliants.
Rosacea is a highly individual condition, and what irritates one person’s skin might not affect another’s.
However, common ingredients people with rosacea might want to avoid in their products include:
- Alcohol: Often present in toners and astringents, alcohol can dry out and irritate the skin, worsening rosacea symptoms.
- Witch hazel: While commonly present in skin care products for its astringent properties, witch hazel can irritate rosacea-prone skin.
- Fragrance: Artificial fragrances are among the most common irritants in skin care products. A person with rosacea may wish to opt for fragrance-free products.
- Menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil: These ingredients can cause a burning or stinging sensation, which is particularly problematic for sensitive, rosacea-affected skin.
- Sulfates: Often found in cleansers and shampoos, sulfates such as sodium lauryl sulfate can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation.
- Exfoliating agents: Harsh exfoliants, including physical scrubs and certain chemical exfoliants (such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid), can be too abrasive and irritating.
- Hydroxy acids: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) have exfoliating properties but
can be too harsh for rosacea-prone skin. - Retinoids: While beneficial for some skin types, retinoids can be irritating and drying for those with rosacea.
Some products and ingredients that are generally considered beneficial for rosacea-prone skin include:
- Gentle cleansers: It is a good idea to look for mild, fragrance-free cleansers. One may wish to
avoid alkaline soaps, which can strip the skin of its natural oils. Cream or lotion-based cleansers are usually a good choice. - Moisturizers: Moisturizing is key in managing rosacea. A person may opt for products that are oil-free, fragrance-free, and hypoallergenic.
Ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides can be particularly beneficial as they help to hydrate and repair the skin barrier. - Sunscreen: Sun exposure can exacerbate rosacea symptoms, so using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is crucial. Mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are typically well-tolerated by rosacea-prone skin.
- Anti-inflammatory ingredients: Products containing niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3,
can help reduce redness and inflammation. Other anti-inflammatory ingredients include allantoin, green tea extract, and aloe vera. - Sulfur: Topical sulfur products can help reduce redness and inflammation. Sulfur often appears in prescription and over-the-counter treatments for rosacea.
- Azelaic acid: This prescription medication
can reduce inflammation and redness. It’s also effective in treating acne, which can co-occur with rosacea. - Metronidazole: Medical professionals
often prescribe this topical antibiotic for rosacea as it can help reduce inflammation and redness. - Physical barriers: In some cases, products like silicone-based foundations or moisturizers can act as a physical barrier to protect sensitive skin from environmental irritants.
Treating and managing rosacea effectively involves a combination of techniques. Here are some tips to help manage and alleviate the symptoms of rosacea:
- Identify and avoid triggers: Common triggers for rosacea flare-ups include sun exposure, hot or cold weather, stress, spicy foods, alcohol, and certain skin care products.
- Sun protection: Sun exposure is a well-known trigger for rosacea. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily. Hats and sun-protective clothing can also be beneficial.
- Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate rosacea, so incorporating stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise into your routine can be beneficial.
- Dietary considerations:
Some people with rosacea find that certain foods and drinks, such as spicy foods, hot drinks, and alcohol, can trigger flare-ups. - Regular dermatologist visits: Regular checkups with a dermatologist can help manage rosacea effectively. They can provide personalized advice and adjust treatments as needed.
- Makeup: If someone uses makeup, looking for non-irritating, mineral-based products can be good. Green-tinted makeup can help to neutralize redness.
- Be gentle with the skin: Avoid rubbing, scrubbing, or massaging the face too hard, as this can aggravate rosacea.
Read on to learn the answers to some commonly asked questions about exfoliating with rosacea.
How often should you exfoliate with rosacea?
People with rosacea may exfoliate less frequently than those without the condition.
Once a week or even less often can be sufficient, but this can vary depending on individual skin tolerance. People can pay attention to their skin and adjust the frequency accordingly.
Should I exfoliate if I have redness?
If someone is experiencing active redness or a rosacea flare-up, it is usually best to avoid exfoliation until their skin has calmed down. Exfoliating irritated or inflamed skin can worsen redness and irritation.
Can you use AHA or BHA with rosacea?
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) are common exfoliating agents. However, they
By adopting a gentle skin care routine, avoiding known irritants, and seeking professional medical advice, many people with rosacea can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their skin health.
Everyone’s skin is different, so what works for one person may not work for another, especially when dealing with sensitive skin conditions like rosacea.