Your skincare routine is integral to combatting irritated skin, especially if you often struggle with acne and rosacea. Using the correct cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen as part of your daily regimen can help lower flare-ups and manage symptoms like dryness and signs of inflammation and surface redness.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs and causes of acne and rosacea, how to build the best skincare routine for irritated skin, and the best sensitive skin products to try.
What Is Acne?
Acne is an inflammatory skin condition caused when the skin follicles become clogged and irritated with debris, such as dead skin and oil. It causes the formation of blackheads, pimples, and whiteheads. Though it is most common among teenagers, the condition can be prevalent in individuals of any age group.
Depending on how serious the condition is, it might leave you with scarring or emotional distress. Though acne may be resilient, there is a perfect acne skincare routine and treatment for you that we’ll share later on.
Read more: What are the Benefits of Sunflower Oil for Your Skin?
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition typically characterized by flushing (similar to sunburn), followed by facial redness. These small red bumps may resemble acne breakouts and broken blood vessels, but they are not.
Additional rosacea symptoms include dry skin, a burning or stinging sensation, and eye problems. Rosacea is most often located at the center of the face, including the forehead, chin, nose bridge, and cheeks.
There are four primary subtypes of rosacea, and each rosacea treatment differs depending on the subtype. The four subtypes of rosacea include:
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: This type of rosacea shows up as constant redness, visible little blood vessels, and frequent flushing, almost like a constant blush.
- Papulopustular rosacea: Often mistaken for acne, this kind causes redness and breakout-like bumps on the face that can be pretty pesky.
- Phymatous rosacea: This rarer type of rosacea leads to thickened, bumpy skin, often on the nose, giving it a bit of a swollen look over time.
- Ocular rosacea: Affecting the eyes, this one can make them feel dry, itchy, and irritated—like having a permanent case of tired, red eyes.
Read more: How to Pick the Proper Moisturizer
The Best Skincare Routine For Acne and Rosacea-Prone Skin
Acne and rosacea-prone skin can be troublesome to treat. Not to mention skincare products for these conditions can be a headache to wrap one's head around. That’s why we’ve shared the best skincare routine below to help ease your frustrations when tackling acne or rosacea skincare:
Start With a Gentle Cleanser
Any simple skincare routine should start with washing your skin with the right cleanser for your skin type. For symptoms of acne and rosacea, you’ll need a gentle water—or gel-based cleanser. When cleansing, treat your skin tenderly—don’t scrub.
Use a BHA Exfoliant
If you have rosacea or acne, it is recommended that you use a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) exfoliant to soothe your skin and help clear clogged pores. Products with this ingredient are ideal for those looking to reduce the symptoms associated with these skin conditions without harming or irritating skin further.
Always Wear Sunscreen
Skin protection against adverse effects of the sun is essential, especially for acne or rosacea-prone skin. In most cases, UV rays usually tend to trigger inflammatory responses, so many experts recommend a mineral-based sunscreen for acne and rosacea-prone skin.
Read more: What Are the Benefits of Face Serums? Everything You Need To Know
Tips For Choosing Products For Irritated Skin
If you have skin prone to acne and/or rosacea or sensitive skin in general, keep an eye out for these soothing, hydrating ingredients:
- Ceramides: These skin-loving ingredients help lock in moisture and protect the skin from various environmental stressors contributing to irritation and sensitivity.
- Niacinamide: This ingredient is known to help soothe signs of irritation.
- Hyaluronic acid: This active yet gentle moisturizing ingredient adds moisture to your skin.
Similarly, specific ingredients should be avoided if you have irritated or sensitive skin. These ingredients to avoid include:
- Microbeads
- Essential oils
- Fragrances
The Wrap-Up On Combating Acne and Rosacea
Soothing signs of irritation, acne, and rosacea involves a sensitive-skin-approved skincare routine with gentle, hydrating products.
Some ingredients should be introduced, whereas others should be avoided, especially when looking into skincare for irritated skin. For further information on combating irritation and sensitivity caused by acne and rosacea, contact the staff at Vieves Leaves to learn what will be most effective for your skin.