Today Jen Mathews, who blogs at mybeautybunny.com is guest posting, Enjoy!
Taming Rosacea
Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness, inflammation, bumps and small, visible blood vessels on the face. There are many theories on what causes rosacea, but none have been proven. Sun exposure, stress, spicy foods, heavy exercise and hot baths can trigger rosacea flare-ups.
Rosacea is not a life-threatening condition, but it can be a very frustrating one. Many people think for years that they just have sensitive skin, when in fact they have this itchy or burning and inflamed medical condition.
If you have rosacea, you are not alone – there are an estimated 16 million sufferers of rosacea in the US! The good news is that while there is no cure, it is possible to minimize redness outbreaks with a few specific, soothing skincare ingredients.
Willow Bark
Willow bark has been used as a cure-all for many years, and when scientists started to figure out why, the pieces fell into place. Willow bark contains a chemical called salicin that is similar to aspirin. In vitro tests have also shown activity against the bacteria that live on the skin. Willow bark is a great choice if you need to bring down inflammation, bumps and redness in skin.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of the most common drinks in Asia, where it treasured for both its signature taste as well as its healing properties. Green tea is an antioxidant, which helps to repair damaged skin, and it also has photo-protective qualities, which means that it protects you from the sun. Many people who have rosacea find that sun exposure makes their condition worse, and this is where green tea can help.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is typically applied topically, and you will find that it has a soothing and cooling property that feels good on skin that is red and irritated. Aloe vera can prevent you from feeling itchy and scratching at the problem areas.
Licorice
Licorice contains a powerful chemical called glycyrrhizin and a 2003 study stated that this chemical was a good choice for people with a variety of skin issues. It reduced red, inflamed skin and helped cool the skin significantly. Many people keep licorice around as a topical agent for their rosacea.
Cucumbers
When you are looking for a very quick soothing remedy, simply cut cucumbers into rounds and lay them over the affected area. Cucumbers are cool, and they rehydrate the area very well. Some people also put the cucumber into a blender, creating a paste that they can smear on. Leave the cucumber on the affected area for fifteen minutes before rinsing it away carefully with cool water. You can also find cucumber as an ingredient in skincare products for sensitive skin.
ZENMED Skin Support System
The ZENMED Skin Support System is perfect for rosacea sufferers. It contains the key ingredients mentioned above to help reduce redness, inflammation and bumps, and it helps to prevent permanent skin damage. The 3-step system includes a gentle cleanser, mask and serum. Because rosacea affects all skin types, you can choose the program that works best for you – the dry skin trio or the oily skin trio.
ZENMED Oil Free Sunscreen with SPF 30
If you have rosacea, your skin may be sensitive and easily irritated. Avoid using any products that burn, sting or irritate your skin, and always wear a non-irritating sunscreen such as ZENMED Oil Free Sunscreen with SPF 30. Take a moment to think about all the different ways that you can tame rosacea in your life; it might be easier than you think!