To understand this better it can be helpful to explore how and where the various parts of the digestive system interact with skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis or eczema.

Rosacea does cause dry skin due to a poorly formed cornified cell envelope and multi-lamellar lipid structure. You need calcium for cell membrane signalling of an intricate process such as the formation of the cornified cell envelope as this external covering protects corneocytes while also working in synergy with the multi-lamellar lipid structure to slow down TEWL. Rosacea affected skins have poor absorption of calcium and Vitamin A, B, K, Omega 3 and 6.

Rosacea is aggravated by topical products as they break down the skins barrier defence systems and lead to cellular inflammation of the immune system. A chronic cutaneous disorder of unknown origin which occurs most commonly in adult-aged individuals. Rosacea is vascular in nature, with characteristic symptoms involving changes of the superficial blood vessels and connective tissue as well as enlarged sebaceous follicles. The affected areas are generally centro-facial skin (cheeks, nose, chin and forehead).

Manifestations include transient or persistent facial erythema, telangiectasia, oedema, non-
follicular papules and pustules. In advanced stages, the nose and eyes may also become involved. Women are affected 2-3 times more than men, men are affected more severely and progress to advanced stages more often than women. The erythema of rosacea is apparently aggravated by chronic sun exposure and photo-damage. Exposing facial skin to sources of radiant heat reproduces the erythema.

What causes Rosacea?

Little is known about the cause of Rosacea. Suggested theories include:

• Demodex folliculorum - A sebaceous duct mite that may cause inflammatory or allergic reactions. They are suspected to be erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, the vectors for microorganisms that cause pustules phymatous and ocular.
• Helicobacter pylori – Bacteria responsible for synthesizing grading system for assessing
  gradations of gastrins in the gut, leading to stimulation of flushing.
• Menopause – Cause of hormonal fluctuations
• Still, no known cure – managing symptoms is key

To reduce rosacea flare-ups through food, these items should be avoided or at least minimise the effects through proper balance:

1. Drink plenty of water (2-3 litres) glasses of water
2. Eat more fruits and vegetables
3. Eat a diet high in fibre, with plenty of raw or lightly steamed vegetables, and whole grains
4. Make sure you are getting enough of the essential nutrients your body needs; supplements can be used under supervision from the skin therapist.
5. Avoid dairy foods
6. Avoid fried foods
7. Avoid foods which cause flushing, e.g. hot drinks, spicy foods, and alcohol
8. Avoid acid - forming foods e.g. grains and sugar

Water is the most important medication in your health toolbox! It is vital to life and cellular
regeneration.

Commonly used Topical Therapy

• Metronidazole (Rosex) - papulopustular rosacea– reduces inflammatory lesions and erythema. It is an anti-bacterial and anti-protozoal agent.
• Antibiotics–clindamycin, minocycline, doxycycline and tetracycline - anti-inflammatory action
• Low dose Isotretinoin – treatment of pustular and phymatous rosacea
• Azelaic Acid – anti-bacterial, normalizes keratinization and anti-inflammatory

* Cortizone should be an absolute last resort as they break down protein - ie. Your skin!
Treatment of Rosacea using Vitamin A Retinoids (Vitamin A variations) appear to modulate the expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors within the skin, and is one thought as to why isotretinoin (prescription strength Vitamin A) may have a therapeutic effect in the treatment of Rosacea.

How do we choose a treatment option?

• Patient-experience/history
• Patient-lifestyle
• Compliance
• Fear factor
• Inflammation
• Known triggers

Important Reminder

Rosacea has no cure and if untreated, patients will most likely experience a diminished quality of life. Though not life-threatening, as it progresses, it can become extremely debilitating to the sufferer. With the right treatment, it is possible to significantly reduce facial flushing and restore some degree of the patient’s confidence. Little steps lead to a successful treatment outcome.

Treatment solutions in the salon can include - Calming antioxidants, LED Therapy & Skin Needling. If you suffer from Rosacea or are struggling to manage this condition get in touch with the salon so we can assist.