Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by redness and inflammation of the face, often accompanied by small red bumps, broken blood vessels, and even thickened skin. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rosacea can vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:

• Facial Redness. This is the most common symptom of rosacea and is often described as a "flush" or "blush" that comes and goes. This redness can be persistent and can affect the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.

• Small Red Bumps. These bumps are similar to acne and are sometimes filled with pus. These bumps commonly appear on the face.

• Broken Blood Vessels. Rosacea can cause blood vessels in the face to become more visible, giving the skin a "spider web" appearance. 

• Thickened Skin. In advanced cases of rosacea, the skin can become thick and bumpy, especially on the nose. 

• Eye Symptoms. Rosacea can also affect the eyes and cause symptoms such as redness, itching, burning, and even vision problems. 

• Dry, Sensitive Skin. Rosacea-prone skin can be dry and sensitive and may be more prone to itching, stinging, and burning sensations.

Types

There are several types of rosacea, each with its own set of symptoms:

• Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea. This is the most common type of rosacea and is characterized by facial redness, flushing, and broken blood vessels. It is often accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation on the skin.

• Papulopustular Rosacea. This type of rosacea is characterized by small red bumps and pus-filled pimples, similar to acne. It is more common in people with fair skin and is often accompanied by facial redness and flushing.

• Phymatous Rosacea. This type of rosacea causes thickening of the skin, often on the nose, giving it a "bulbous" appearance. It can also affect the cheeks, chin, forehead, and ears.

• Ocular Rosacea. This type of rosacea affects the eyes, causing redness, itching, burning, and even vision problems. It can also cause swollen eyelids, dry eyes, and a gritty or sandy sensation in the eyes. It is often accompanied by facial redness and flushing.

It is also important to note that people with rosacea may have symptoms of multiple types which can also change over time. The symptoms of rosacea can also vary in severity. It is best to consult a dermatologist or other healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Triggers

The triggers of rosacea can vary from person to person, but some common triggers include:

• Exposure to sun and wind. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun and wind can cause inflammation and redness in the skin.

• Hot or cold temperatures. Sudden changes in temperature, such as going from a warm room to a cold outdoors, can cause flushing and redness.

• Emotional stress. Stress and anxiety can cause the blood vessels in the face to dilate, resulting in redness and flushing.

• Spicy or hot foods. Eating spicy or hot foods can cause flushing and redness in the face.

• Alcohol consumption. Consuming alcohol, especially in large quantities, can cause flushing and redness in the face.

• Certain skin care products. Some skin care products, such as those that contain alcohol or other irritants, can cause redness and irritation in the skin.

• Hormonal changes. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menopause, can cause symptoms of rosacea to worsen.

• Medications. Certain medications, such as blood pressure medications, can cause flushing and redness.

• Gastrointestinal issues. Gastrointestinal issues, such as acid reflux, can cause symptoms of rosacea to worsen.

It is also important to note that triggers can vary from person to person, and it may take some trial and error to identify your specific triggers. 

Treatment

Treatment for rosacea typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes and medical therapy.

• Lifestyle Changes. Avoiding known triggers, using sun protection, and taking steps to manage stress can help reduce symptoms of rosacea.

• Medical Therapy/Topical Medications. Metronidazole and azelaic acid are the two most commonly used topical medications to reduce the redness and inflammation of rosacea. They can be applied as cream, gel, or lotion. Topical ivermectin is also another option that has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammatory lesions and redness. Topical brimonidine is also a newer treatment option that is applied topically to reduce redness and flushing.

• Oral Medications. Oral antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and macrolides, may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and clear up any bacterial overgrowth. Isotretinoin, an oral medication commonly used to treat acne, has also been used to treat rosacea with success.

• Light-based Treatments. Laser therapy or intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy can be used to remove any thickened skin or visible blood vessels caused by rosacea. These treatments can also help to reduce redness and inflammation.

• Surgery. In advanced cases of rosacea, surgery may be recommended to remove thickened skin or visible blood vessels.

Rosacea Wash

In addition to traditional medical treatments, incorporating a skincare routine that includes products specifically formulated for rosacea-prone skin can also be helpful in managing the symptoms of rosacea. One such product is our pHat 5.5 Rosacea Soothing Wash, a gentle and effective cleanser specifically formulated for people with rosacea-prone skin.

The formula of Rosacea Wash contains a blend of natural ingredients that are known to be beneficial for rosacea-prone skin, such as Manuka Honey, Aloe Vera, and Cehami. These ingredients can help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reduce redness and inflammation, and provide hydration to dry, sensitive skin.

It is sulfate-free and non-foaming, which makes it gentle enough for daily use without stripping the skin of its natural oils. Using it twice daily as part of your daily skincare routine can help remove dirt and impurities without causing further irritation to the skin.

Rosacea Cream

Gentle and soothing natural relief. pHat 5.5 Soothing Rosacea Cream moisturizer for works great in relieving rosacea, redness, inflammation, acne, dermatitis, and other skin irritations associated with four types of Rosacea. It is pH balanced and contains extra vitamins and minerals your body needs to moisturize and repair skin damage.  

With Aloe Vera, Manuka Honey, Cehami, Plumeria, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil as well as Hempseed and Olive Oil we give you an approach to handling your Rosacea naturally. You may have used many skincare products before but with our powerful and organic formula, we target all the signs and symptoms of Rosacea for optimum results.

Gentle Reminders from pHat 5.5

It's important to note that while Rosacea Wash can be a helpful addition to your skincare routine, it should not be used as a replacement for traditional medical treatments prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's best to use it in conjunction with other treatments recommended by a healthcare provider, such as avoiding triggers and following a good skincare routine.

It is also important to note that rosacea is a chronic condition that may require long-term management. Even with treatment, flare-ups can still occur, and it's essential to continue to avoid triggers, use sun protection, and follow a good skincare routine.

It is important to work closely with a dermatologist or other healthcare provider to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider will consider the type of rosacea you have, the severity of your symptoms, and any other medical conditions you may have before recommending a treatment plan.