Rosacea can be a very frustrating condition. Flare-ups can lead to discomfort, skin irritation, self-consciousness, and questions about when your appearance and skin will return to normal.
There’s still some misunderstanding about what causes the red, sometimes pus-filled bumps on sufferers’ faces. Certain triggers have been identified, and various diets and treatments have been recommended.
Advertisement
A rosacea diet featuring typical anti-inflammatory foods has been recommended, however, there is no proof that it actually works. That said, eating more green vegetables, whole grains, nuts and berries, colorful fruit, vegetables, and fish is unlikely to hurt.
There is also evidence to suggest a connection between gut health and rosacea. It’s possible that a healthier, more diverse microbiome can limit flareups. In this case, eating fiber-rich foods and probiotics might help, as would limiting sugary foods and refined grains.
Still, it might not fully prevent flare-ups.
Prevention—which is always the best treatment—seems rooted in the idea of avoiding triggers like sun exposure, alcohol, spicy food, high-histamine foods, and hot drinks.
Advertisement
Life happens, of course, and prevention is not always necessary. You might want to head out with friends on a sunny day, indulge in a glass of wine, or head out for a coffee or some spicy food. When you do, finding quick treatment can be a big help. Especially if it’s natural.
A few fast-acting natural treatment methods for rosacea may include:
- Eating ice chips: Chewing ice chips may temporarily halt the symptoms of rosacea by constricting blood vessels. In turn, this may limit redness.
- Cold compress: A cold compress might also help constrict blood vessels, however, it’s important to be cautious. In some cases, a cold compress can worsen symptoms, so be sure not to apply it directly to the skin. Wrap ice packs in a towel prior to application.
- Cool milk compress: A cold milk compress might be a better option than a cold pack compress. The lactic acid in milk can have anti-inflammatory effects that may help ease swelling and redness during a rosacea flare-up. Simply soak a towel or cloth in cold milk and apply it to your skin.
Giving these natural treatment methods may help restore skin health, perhaps temporarily, so you can enjoy your day
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
