Heal Your Skin: The Best Natural Remedies for Rosacea

More than 14 million Americans are effected by rosacea, which is a chronic skin condition that can often be misdiagnosed as acne, eczema, or an allergic reaction. There is no cure for the condition, and few medications are available that effectively alleviate the symptoms of rosacea.

However, some people with rosacea have started to take matters into their own hands by making lifestyle adjustments and using other wellness supplements as a way to manage their physical symptoms. If you or someone you know struggles with the appearance of rosacea, consider what kind of at-home remedies may help treat the condition.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea causes an inflammatory response within the skin, which usually affects the face and surrounding area, including the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. This condition usually manifests itself as blushing or redness on these areas. This is sometimes coupled with bumps or swelling, as well as broken blood vessels that may show through the skin.

Common triggers of rosacea include extreme temperatures, an excess of wind or humidity, stress or anxiety, vigorous exercise, and hot baths or saunas. Certain foods and beverages, like dairy products, alcohol, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeinated drinks, and spicy food can cause rosacea flare-ups as well. The condition is more common among fair-skinned people, and can also worsen with too much sun exposure.

If your symptoms have proved difficult to manage, think about incorporating one of the following natural remedies into your skin care routine.

5 Natural Remedies to Help Ease Your Rosacea Symptoms

• Green tea—Green tea is rich in antioxidants and can diminish the skin’s reaction to ultraviolet light, which helps reduce sun-triggered flare ups. It has a soothing quality that helps reduce inflammation and redness caused by rosacea. Green tea is available as a tea and also as a topical supplement which can be applied directly to the skin. Cooled green tea can also be used as a compress.
• Coconut oil—This essential oil, which is extracted from the meat of fresh coconuts, is a potent antioxidant with moisturizing properties. Coconut oil also contains lauric acid and other fatty acids that can help soothe irritated skin. And unlike some other rosacea treatments, it is safe to apply to the area around your eyes. If applied consistently to affected areas, coconut oil may effectively reduce rosacea and its associated symptoms.
• CBD—CBD (cannabidiol) is a naturally derived compound found in cannabis plants that’s used in a variety of wellness supplements. CBD products come in many forms, but CBD topicals are perhaps best-suited for potentially treating rosacea. CBD is known to be a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory capabilities. When applied to the skin, CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors to reduce inflammation, redness, and other skin irritations that may be caused by rosacea.
• Aloe vera gel—The gel produced by the aloe vera plant is commonly used as a topical which can be applied to the skin to ease dryness, irritation, or other forms of skin damage. In addition to facilitating external healing, aloe products can also work as a detoxifying agent under the skin. The plant has significant capabilities as a hydrator and moisturizer, helping to rejuvenate skin while also reducing inflammation and irritation.
• Tea tree oil—This essential oil comes from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, or the tea tree, which is native to Australia. Tea tree oil contains a number of compounds that work to kill bacteria and viruses, as well as increase the activity of white blood cells which can help fight off germs and other foreign invaders. This oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can also reduce redness and splotchy skin that might affect someone with rosacea.

How to Find the Natural Remedy that Best Fits Your Needs

In order to determine which natural approach may be the most effective in managing your rosacea, make sure you consider any allergies or sensitivities you may have to certain kinds of products. If you’re taking any existing medications for rosacea or any other conditions, talk to a doctor about the possible advantages of using these natural remedies.

Additionally, people with rosacea should always be cautious about sun exposure. Applying sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher can help provide protection from damaging UV rays that can agitate rosacea. For wind protection, you can use a scarf to shield your face to prevent windburn.

For more treatment options, it might be worth trying out essential oils like lavender and cypress oils, as well as other topicals that may help ease your symptoms. Low intensity activities like yoga, walking, or swimming can help reduce stress and might improve your symptoms as well. It’s also a good idea to consult a doctor about additional lifestyle changes or treatment options that might help you reduce your symptoms and have you feeling like your best self.