Dear Doctor
Hi, I have a dry red small area on my face for years now, I have gone to my dermatologic and told me to buy a cream (I don’t remember the name) It worked for a while but after it stopped working.
The redness gets more red when it is hot outside and I sweat on my face or if I scratch it. It doesn’t itch at all or have any other redness anywhere.
I had dandruff (if that helps) but I’m using dandruff shampoos for years now and don’t have anymore. Thank you.
Dear Patient
Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea Symptoms
This condition is known as rosacea, and to be more specific, Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea. The symptoms of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea include redness due to flushing of the cheeks and telangiectasia which are small dilated blood vessels. The red areas may also have a scale due to chronic dermatitis.
Rosacea Triggers
Potential triggers of rosacea include:
1. Sun exposure
2. Emotional, mental and even physical stress. Anger and anxiety are other emotions associated with rosacea.
3. Hot weather
4. Wind
5. Skin care products like harsh soaps and exfoliating creams
Rosacea Treatment
The treatment of rosacea includes:
Avoiding triggers
The first step in treating rosacea is to avoid the triggers that worsen it. Therefore avoid spending time outside especially when it is brightest which is usually from around 10 am to 4 pm. If you have to be out in the sun wear wide brimmed sun hats and sunglasses.
Using mild cleansers
Use mild cleansers like the Eucerin Redness Relief Soothing Facial Cleanser for rosacea .
Applying medication
After cleansing, the face should be patted dry with a soft towel and the medication applied after around 10 minutes when the face is totally dry. Examples of antibiotics that are applied on the skin to treat rosacea include metronidazole 0.75% or 0.1% gel (Metrogel).
Apply moisturizers
Moisturizers can be applied after the rosacea medications. Avoid moisturizers ingredients like alcohol, menthol and camphor which can irritate the skin.
Apply SPF
Broad spectrum (offer protection from UVA and UVB rays) sunscreens with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 should be applied every day. They should be applied 5 minutes after the application of the rosacea medication. Sunscreens with a green tint can help cover up the redness of rosacea.
Use Camouflage Cosmetics
Camouflage cosmetics like cover-up make up can be used to conceal the redness. The Smart Cover-up Starter Kit and the Dermablend Cover Cream are examples of cover-up makeup.
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