You Can Look Mah-velous!

Tweaking your skin care regimen can significantly impact rosacea and acne

(RxWiki News) Fernando Lamas famously said to Johnny Carson on The Tonight Show, "Johnny, I would rather look good than to feel good any day." With significant acne and rosacea, feeling good and looking good may not be happening.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends healthy skin care habits that can be impactful in the treatment of acne and rosacea. 

"Treat acne and rosacea consistently with dermatologist recommended products."

Dermatologist Diane S. Berson, MD, FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Weill Medical College of Cornell University in New York, NY explained  stripping skin of lipids, compromises the protective outer layer of the skin which can make a patient's acne and rosacea worse.

Berson suggests keeping the skin well hydrated with the proper skin care products. This way, the barrier will stay intact which will allow patients to better tolerate their medications. Berson provides step by step skin recommendations:

In Depth

  • gently wash with a non-irritating, pH balanced cleanser to decrease inflammation
  • avoid harsh cleansers, alkaline bar soaps and alcohol-based products as they may worsen irritation
  • those with acne should use a light, oil-free moisturizer that is non-comedogenic, or won’t clog the pores
  • those with rosacea should use moisturizers containing lipids, such as ceramides, as they are usually well tolerated and improve the barrier that is often compromised
  • new sunscreens with microfine zinc oxide are smoother, lighter textured and more cosmetically appealing formulations
  • spray or gel-based sunscreens also work well for those with acne or oily skin
Review Date: 
April 24, 2011