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THE ROSACEA REPORT

The Ultimate Rosacea Skincare Routine

Stop the Flare-Ups Before They Start

Rosacea got you feeling like your face is throwing a fiery tantrum at the worst possible moments? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s not permanent.

With the right skincare routine, you can turn the heat down and keep your glow.

Here’s how to do it.

Rosacea Is Manageable, Not Curable

While rosacea can’t be cured, it can absolutely be managed with the right lifestyle choices and skincare routine. Here are a few things to stop doing to keep your skin happy:

  • Stop smoking: It’s a major rosacea trigger and ages your skin.
  • Avoid tanning beds: UV exposure worsens redness and flare-ups.
  • Leave gritty exfoliators for your feet: Your face deserves a gentler touch.
  • Skip hot showers: Stick to lukewarm water for cleansing and bathing.

Say no to common triggers: Avoid menthol, alcohol, and witch hazel.

Step 1: Start with the Right Cleanser

Your cleanser sets the tone for the rest of your routine. Rosacea-prone skin loves something gentle and soothing.

What to look for:

  • Fragrance-free formulas: Fragrance is a no-go for sensitive skin.
  • Creamy cleansers: Always choose cream-based cleansers. If you’re oily, a creamy light foam can work too (see our new cleanser launching soon!).
  • Hydrating ingredients: Think ceramides, panthenol, and glycerin.

What to avoid:

  • Harsh exfoliants or scrubs.
  • Cleansers with alcohol, sulfates, or menthol.

Pro Tip: Wash your face at night with a cleansing oil like our Japanese Cleansing Oil, then follow with a cream cleanser for a double cleanse. In the morning, rinse with cool water—no need to wash again unless you’ve had mind-blowing sex. If you do, use a gentle cleansing water like our Calm Cleansing Water (coming soon!).

Step 2: Master the Moisturizer

Hydration is key for keeping your skin barrier healthy and happy.

What to look for:

  • Ceramides: These help repair your skin’s barrier.
  • Niacinamide: Calms redness and strengthens the skin.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin.
  • Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5): Excellent for soothing and hydrating sensitive skin.
  • Shea Butter: Adds nourishing moisture without clogging pores.
  • Facial oils: Lock in moisture and prevent TEWL (transepidermal water loss). See our post on TEWL here.

What to avoid:

  • Essential oils (lavender and tea tree oil can be major irritants).
  • Heavy fragrances or botanicals known to trigger allergies.

Pro Tip: Keep skin moist, especially in dry climates with low humidity. Calming mists can help throughout the day.

Step 3: The Sunscreen Non-Negotiable

If there’s one thing rosacea absolutely hates, it’s the sun. Sunscreen is your MVP.

What to look for:

  • Zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: These physical blockers are gentler on sensitive skin.
  • SPF 30: Tends to be less irritating and sufficient for daily protection.
  • Higher SPF zinc sunscreens: These can work well for rosacea too, but test to find one you like.

What to avoid:

  • Chemical sunscreens (they can irritate and sting).
  • Sunscreens with added fragrances or alcohol.

Pro Tip: Reapply more frequently if using a higher SPF. Test a few sunscreens to find your perfect match.

Step 4: Keep It Simple and Consistent

When it comes to rosacea, less is more. A minimalist routine reduces the risk of irritation.

Basic Routine:

  • Morning: Rinse with cool water, apply sunscreen.
  • Evening: Double cleanse, moisturize, and use any prescribed treatments.

Advanced Routine (Optional):

  • Add a calming serum with niacinamide or azelaic acid (consult your derm).
  • Use a cool jade roller to soothe hot spots and reduce puffiness.

Pro Tip: Introduce new products one at a time and patch test first. Consistency is your secret weapon.

Ingredients That Love Your Skin

Look for products with these rosacea-friendly heroes:

Ceramides

  • Strengthen the skin barrier and lock in moisture.

Squalane

  • Lightweight moisturizer that hydrates and balances.

Glycerin

  • Draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated.

Rosa Centifolia Flower Water

  • Calms redness and soothes irritation.

Rosa Damascena Flower Water

  • Hydrates and reduces redness.

Sodium Hyaluronate

  • Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin, better than standard Hyaluronic Acid, and better for skin prep too because it won't pill on the skin!

Panthenol (Provitamin B5)

  • Soothes and supports skin repair.

Aloe Vera

  • Calms and reduces inflammation.

Tips for Rosacea-Friendly Skincare

Drink plenty of water:
Hydrate your skin from the inside out.

Keep your skin hydrated:
Facial oils and calming spray mists help prevent dryness and TEWL.

Avoid over-exfoliating:
Gentle exfoliation, like our Sexapeel Gommage Peeling Gel, once or twice a week is enough.

Check labels for irritants:
Avoid menthol, isopropyl alcohol, witch hazel and fragrances.

Read our post on irritants vs. allergies here.

The Takeaway

Building a rosacea-friendly skincare routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick to gentle, hydrating products, protect your skin from the sun, and keep things simple. Your skin will thank you.

Share This!

If you know someone struggling with rosacea, share this guide.

What’s your go-to tip for managing rosacea? Leave a comment below, I would love to hear from you!

Xo,
Sonia

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