What Skin Care Products Are Good for Rosacea?

If you suffer from rosacea, your skin needs extra care to stay soft and hydrated. Rosacea manifests as red patches of skin on the forehead, cheeks, chin and nose. Some beauty products and cosmetics can make the irritation worse. The right products, though, soothe skin and keep it from drying out.

A woman is washing her face. (Image: Dejan Ristovski/iStock/Getty Images)

Products to Use

Sun exposure can worsen skin's redness, so always apply an SPF 15 or greater sunscreen before going outdoors. Sunscreens that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide work best for rosacea sufferers. Wash your face with a mild, water-soluble cleanser instead of harsh soap. Exfoliate your face daily with a product that contains salicylic acid. This acid treats flaky skin and eases redness. If you wear makeup, stick with mineral-based products. Mineral foundation, for example, hides redness, absorbs oil and won't irritate skin. Cosmetics that contain dimethicone hide red patches well. Dimethicone also shields skin from UV rays. In the evening, use a retinol-based serum or moisturizer. Retinol helps control redness and inflammation. Moisturizers that contain ceramides or other lipids also work.

What to Avoid

Artificial fragrances and some essential oils can irritate skin, so opt for fragrance-free products. Avoid products containing harsh ingredients, such as eucalyptus oil, peppermint, menthol and alcohol. Certain plant extracts, including cinnamon, cedar and pine, can also make rosacea worse. Skip harsh cleansers, gritty exfoliating scrubs and stiff-bristled facial brushes.