Rosacea Treatments

ROSACEA TREATMENT

2011-08-03T08:28:00.000-07:00

Prior to beginning any new rosacea treatment, one needs to prepare the skin,
and allow the skin to heal from the effects of previous treatments, which may have left the skin damaged or overly sensitive. We often hear people tell us that the rosacea treatments they had been using left their skin so sensitive that "even water hurts their skin" which can be very true. If one then uses a harsh acidic or invading rosacea treatment such as laser, skin rejuvenation or anti-wrinkle
treatment, or retnoids, then obviously the rosacea sufferer is going further
down the wrong rosacea treatment pathway.

So many times rosacea or the worsening of rosacea from a mild stage to a more severe stage is the result of treatments that we have used in the past or are currently using. Use of acne treatments containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide cause increased redness to the facial skin; often we overuse these products because we feel they are not working. For instance you have more pimples so you use more of the acne treatment. When you do this, the skin reacts by trying to form a barrier of more oil to protect itself from the harmful effects of the offending treatment. So you tend to use more to counteract this effect and in doing so the pores tighten and close resulting in clogged pores, pimples and papules.

On the Rosacea-Ltd application page, we recommend using the cetaphil gentle cleansing bar for dry sensitive skin and jojoba oil. Deodorant soaps, and body soaps contain ingredients that cause skin irritation on the more sensitive facial skin and result in increased redness.

Many of the moisturizers today contain ‘special anti-wrinkle’ ingredients. These special ingredients are Citric acid, Alpha-Hydroxy acid or Beta-Hydroxy acids. The purpose of these ingredients is to exfoliate or peel off the upper layer of the skin thereby giving a smoother appearance. The chemical used must be harsh enough to burn off, kill or destroy the top layer of skin. This burning will cause more redness and increased skin sensitivity and irritation.

Rosacea Hydration

2011-06-22T10:48:00.000-07:00

Can the water you drink affect the condition of your skin? Absolutely.
Lack of adequate water hydration can result in wrinkles, tightness of the skin, facial redness, dry, itchy skin, clogged pores leading to acne, and rosacea.

Lack of adequate water hydration can result in wrinkles. Forget about all the anti-wrinkle creams and lotions, without the proper amount of water, your skin will become dry, drawn and wrinkled. The solution is quite simple – drink more water!

Increasing your water intake helps to plump up, moisturize and tone the skin. The proverbial fountain of youth may actual be found in a glass of water!

So how much is enough?

Your body weight, and activity level play a part in the determination of the amount of water needed to maintain proper hydration. Other factors include the dryness or oiliness of your skin. If your skin is dry and tight feeling, then increasing your water intake will give your skin a more supple and youthful appearance. Oily skin is the result of your body producing oil to protect and nurture the skin. If your apply harsh chemicals and treatments to your skin, the body will produce more oil to maintain the protective layer the body needs to keep out bacteria and germs from entering the body.

So how much do you need? Each of us has different needs and based on our level of activity and environment requires different amounts of water. The best rule to go on is to start with 8 eight-ounce glasses a day. And adjust the amount based on how your skin reacts. Many people find that their optimum hydration is best achieved when consuming 10 to 12 glasses a day.

Treating Rosacea Eyes

2010-12-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Ocular rosacea can be easily treated with Rosacea-Ltd IV by simply washing your face and leaving your face and eye lid wet. Then glide the Rosacea-Ltd IV disk across the closed eye lid for a 'touch' application of 1 second and the proper amount of ingredients will dissolve off on to the eye lid and penetrate and migrate. Likewise, the same can be completed for the area above your eye, below or around your eye. Likewise without side effects.

Will Rosacea-Ltd Work For Me?

2010-08-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

Rosacea-Ltd IV was specifically designed for sensitive facial skin with any combination of rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. During the past 12 years, 98% of Rosacea-Ltd patients confirm that they are very impressed. Rosacea-Ltd IV received its name by being the fourth version of Rosacea-Ltd to meet the rosacea patients needs world-wide by seeing an improvement in the beauty of their skin's appearance of facial redness and dilated vessels as well as rosacea-related papules (hard red lesions without pus) which are the basic definitions and symptom experienced. The objective of Rosacea-Ltd is to simply do the opposite of most rosacea treatments by leaving the sensitive skin "intact on the face". The existence of rosacea along with acne and seborrheic dermatitis makes for a hard combination of three skin disorders.

Patients with rosacea symptoms often have adult acne (acne rosacea) to coexist with rosacea in approximately 82% of patients and an additional 35% have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for a most delicate skin condition. Seborrheic Dermatitis is usually viewed by the patient as a reddened area of patchy inflammatory skin that is ultra sensitive even in mild cases. Acne products are too aggressive and cause more redness & sensitivity. Some patients mistakenly chose to exfoliate their already sensitive skin with exfoliants by various brand names to 'renovate, anti-age or renew' their skin but most often to their surprise, the skin becomes more red and more sensitive and has a more aged appearance.

Treating The Symptoms Of Rosacea

2010-07-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

The first step in treating rosacea is lifestyle change. Though rosacea is genetic in nature, there are lots of "triggers" that make it worse. Avoid common triggers listed:

Sun exposure: People with rosacea are particularly sensitive to sunlight. Apply sun block to the face when going outdoors. But take care! Skin affected by rosacea is very sensitive to chemicals. Use a quality sun block that doesn't irritate the skin.

Stress: Flushing increases when you're under stress. Learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.

Alcohol: Alcohol doesn't cause rosacea, but it does dilate blood vessels in the face, resulting in increased rosacea flushing.

Spicy foods: Heavily spiced foods cause flushing and worsen rosacea.

Cosmetics: Makeup, cleansers, lotions, and even some moisturizers can irritate the skin. Use only products that are non-irritating, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic.

The traditional first-line medical treatment is antibiotics. But beaware that overuse of antibiotics can lead to super bugs that are resisitant to antibioitcs.

Other topical treatments include azelaic acid, retinoic acid, and even vitamin C preparations. These products can lead to increased facial redness and skin irritation for skin that is already sensitive and red.

Lasers, pulsed light, and other surgical devices remove visible blood vessels and reduce redness. There are a lot of mixed reveiws about the effectiveness of laser and pulsed light.

Many Skin Conditions Can be Mistaken For Rosacea

2010-06-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

The many skin conditions with symptoms similar to rosacea can make the diagnosis of rosacea difficult. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh or aggressive leading to the onset of rosacea or acne rosacea. Aggressive acne treatments to reduce oiliness of the skin can result in the flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis. The butterfly rash of lupus can also lead to a mis-diagnosis of rosacea. Learning the difference between the symptoms of rosacea, eczema, acne, lupus and psoriasis is necessary to understanding your skin condition. It is possible for these skin conditions to co-exist making successful treatment a very difficult endeavor. Treating rosacea or other skin conditions need not involve an endless round of laser treatments and antibiotics, it can be as simple as modifying your lifestyle to include positive rosacea health and skin care habits. The treatment of rosacea or any skin condition must involve treatment of the whole body.

Topical Steroids and Rosacea

2010-04-27T09:29:00.000-07:00

In the treatment of severe facial dermatitis, one may be prescribed a limited time dose of a topical steroid. Initially the anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive effects of the topical steroids result in what appears to be clearance of the primary dermatitis. Cortisones work by decreasing inflammation, swelling, burning and itching at the site of application. When applied in an ointment they can help the skin maintain moisture. In general steroid ointments are stronger than steroid creams because the medicine penetrates better when in an ointment form.
Topical steroids are generally used to treat the symptoms of dermatitis, a skin condition characterized by itchy, red, scaly skin. They are also used for other inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and dermatitis. They don't cure the conditions but can ease the symptoms. They work by reducing inflammation of the skin and thus easing the symptoms of itching, redness and swelling that occur with many skin conditions.

When a rosacea patient is treated for a prolonged time with topical steroids the disorder may at first respond, but inevitably the signs of steroid atrophy emerge with thinning of the skin and marked increase in telangiectases. The complexion becomes dark red with a copper-like hue. Soon the surface becomes studded with round, follicular, deep papulopustules, firm nodules, and even secondary comedones. The appearance is shocking with a flaming red, scaling, and papule-covered face.

Topical steroids frequently cause thinning of the skin if used for long periods of time. They can also cause acne-like pustules, dermatitis, broken blood vessels under the skin, stretch marks, loss of skin color (which may clear-up on stopping treatment) and, when used on the face, a rosacea-like disorder (reddening of the skin), also known as steroid rosacea. Other side effects can include itching, easy bruising, and in some cases skin infection.

The persistent use of topical steroids leads to epidermal atrophy, degeneration of dermal structure, and collagen deterioration after several months. Ultimately the skin develops the appearance of rosacea, and it is rendered extremely vulnerable to bacterial, viral, and fungal infection. Patients persist in using steroid creams or ointments because they have typically learned the hard way about the severe rebound inflammation that occurs if they stop. In short, they find themselves caught between rosacea like steroid dermatitis and the erythematous pustular eruptions of steroid rebound.

Steroid rosacea is an avoidable rosacea condition, which in addition to disfigurement is accompanied by severe discomfort and pain. Withdrawal of the steroid treatment is inevitably accompanied by exacerbation of the rosacea like symptoms.

On initial assessment, it can be very difficult to distinguish between true rosacea and its steroid-induced mimic. The neck and scalp are often the giveaway, said Dr.Roger Allen of the University Hospital, Nottingham, England. Steroid-induced rosacea is often diffuse, extending from the face down along the neck. In balding men, the scalp is often affected. True rosacea tends to be less diffuse. Unfortunately there is no easy way to resolve steroid-induced rosacea, short of ceasing steroid use. This is, admittedly, a hard sell to patients who have already experienced the severe erythema, edema, and pustular eruptions associated with steroid rebound. Topical or systemic antibiotics may be needed if the patient has a bacterial infection. Cold chamomile tea compresses are a soothing adjunct for patients in the throes of steroid backlash. It is important to understand the rebound phenomenon in steroid induced rosacea. The rosacea sufferer is often baffled by their observation that the same medicine that was so effective in clearing their primary dermatoses or acne is now causing this distressing rosacea like condition, and that their skin gets markedly worse if they stop treatment. Prudence in steroid use is essential. Patients with seborrheic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, or other dermatoses simply should not be treated with topical corticosteroids.

WHAT IS ACNE ROSACEA?

2010-03-04T08:39:00.000-08:00

The term "acne rosacea" first appeared in an English medical text by Dr. Thomas Bateman in 1812, who noted: "The perfect cure of acne rosacea is, in fact, never accomplished." Other 19th century references commonly listed rosacea among the different forms of acne. By 1891, Dr. Henri G. Piffard, a professor of dermatology in New York, called for distinctions among different forms of acne to more truly differentiate symptoms.

Today, dermatologists have learned that rosacea is a different disease from acne, and that therapy for acne can often make rosacea worse. Although the precise cause of rosacea is still an entity to many, most experts believe it is a vascular disorder that seems to be related to the flushing of rosacea. Advances in rosacea research have also dispelled the centuries-old myth that rosacea is caused by heavy consumption of alcohol. While alcohol may aggravate rosacea, the symptoms of rosacea can be just as severe in one who never consumes alcohol.

Acne rosacea is a misleading term: rosacea and acne are two entirely different conditions, although they can and do appear together. Clogged skin pores and bacterial infections cause acne. Rosacea occurs when blood vessels move to just below the skin's surface, leading to blotchy red patches. These blotches fade and then return, becoming more permanent over time. Many of the harsher products and treatments used in the treatment of acne can lead to the on set or progression of rosacea.

The blackheads, whiteheads and pimples associated with acne are not associated with rosacea. Rosacea papules, which are red bumps that do not contain pus are quite different from acne pimples. These papules are usually solid and hard. The papules range in size from small bumps that resemble the measles or chicken pox, all the way to larger, penny-shaped nodules. Left untreated, larger nodules can cause rhinophyma. Rhinophyma is a form of rosacea that is characterized by chronic redness, inflammation, and increased tissue growth of the nose. Rhinophyma can take on many different forms. In most forms, the nose is chronically red and inflamed. There is also evidence of swelling, and the skin often shows thickened skin with large pores, resembling the peel of an orange (peau d' orange). In some forms, sebaceous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia (increased growth and number of sebaceous glands) can cause the nose to grow considerably, resulting in a bulbous appearance.

Rosacea Can Also Affect The Eyes

2009-12-31T08:12:00.000-08:00

Ocular Rosacea is an inflammatory eye condition often associated with rosacea. Ocular rosacea can cause a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. Ocular rosacea may also manifest itself as inflamed and swollen eyelids with small-inflamed bumps, eyelashes that may fall out, compounded by bloodshot eyes. The most frequent signs of ocular rosacea, which may never progress to a more severe condition, are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts; quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which ocular rosacea is often confused. Pain and light sensitivity may also be present. The ocular complications of rosacea are independent of the severity of facial rosacea.

Treatment of ocular rosacea requires a highly motivated patient. A dermatologist treats the direct impact of rosacea on the skin but is not trained in the treatment of rosacea involving the eyes. An ophthalmologist specializes in the treatment of eye conditions does not always link this to a co-coordinating treatment for rosacea manifestations of the skin. With regard to ocular rosacea, treatment usually consists of lid hygiene measures, such as daily cleansing with cotton-tipped applicators (Q-tips). This entails cleansing the bases of the lashes with a moistened Q-tip to remove debris and oily secretions. Some ophthalmologists advocate cleansing with diluted baby shampoo, while others believe that plain water is best. In treating your ocular rosacea it is beneficial to include in your diet three servings per week from the Omega-3 supplements. These essential fatty supplements aid in an overall balanced diet as well as easing the discomfort of ocular rosacea.

Dry, red eyes characterize ocular rosacea. It can occur in isolation or as part of generalized rosacea, says Alan Shalita, M.D., distinguished teaching professor and chair in the department of dermatology at SUNY Downstate Medical Center, Brooklyn, New York. "I have stayed away from treating the condition with steroids because of a rebound phenomenon. The use of steroids can make things worse, particularly if patients have used topical steroids over the long term," Dr. Shalita tells Dermatology Times.

Perioral Dermatitis and Rosacea

2009-11-17T11:33:00.000-08:00

When treating the symptoms of rosacea, one may observe a rosacea-like eruption around the mouth area. Known as perioral dermatitis. This rosacea-like inflammation generally consists of small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling as the skin is extremely aggravated. Perioral dermatitis is often aggravated by fluoridated or tartar-control toothpaste, chapstick, the ingredients in lipstick, and mouthwash. It is also believed that topical steroids, residue from asthma inhalers t containing steroids, cinnamon, cosmetics, and even moisturizers contribute to perioral dermatitis. Hormones, sunlight, and stress can cause perioral dermatitis to be more severe. Perioral dermatitis is a common skin problem that mostly affects young women, however, occasionally men and children are affected by it. Perioral dermatitis may be considered a variant of rosacea or a as distinct and separate skin condition.

The Benefits of Rosacea-Ltd

2009-10-28T07:48:00.000-07:00

Now in their twelfth year of sales worldwide, Rosacea Ltd has been used by thousands of rosacea sufferers throughout the world who have benefited from the results of this patented rosacea formula. Rosacea Ltd can be used safely and effectively by those who are more sensitive due to ocular rosacea as well as women who are pregnant or nursing. Rosacea Ltd contains no irritating fragrances which demonstrates the most favorable skin acceptance of any rosacea skin care product.

Rosacea Ltd III is simple and fast to use. After washing the affected area and leaving your face wet, gently apply Rosacea Ltd III over the rosacea-affected area. Its small circular design is easy to carry in a briefcase, purse, or pocket.

Rosacea Ltd III customers usually see visible improvement in the appearance of their skin within several days to two weeks. Almost all notice a substantial change within 40 days, and even more improvements after several months.

Rosacea Ltd III is formulated to avoid any reddening effect by calming the skin and minimizing the over active blood vessels which cause facial redness. The appearance and feel of skin suffering from acne, eczema or seborrheic dermatitis is also improved within just a few days.

There are no known side effects of Rosacea Ltd III. The sodium chloride and sulfur in Rosacea Ltd III have been used in other ways for centuries without causing any known side effects. Rosacea Ltd III does not cause watery eyes, nausea, constipation, temporary redness, mild dryness, burning sensations of the skin, yeast infections, or birth anomalies. In addition, Rosacea Ltd III does not cause photosensitization (i.e., increased sensitivity to sunlight) as do many topical products. Unlike azelaic acid, which can lighten the skin, Rosacea Ltd III causes no hypopigmentation.

Rosacea Ltd III is composed of more than 99% soothing and calming ingredients, composed of natural mineral substances. Rosacea Ltd III is processed without the use of potentially irritating vehicle carriers, preservatives, or fragrances.

Treating Rosacea

2009-10-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

Many may view rosy pink cheeks as a sign of good health and beauty. For others that rosy glow indicates the occurrence of a possible skin condition called rosacea.

Optimum health and beauty in skin care is actually a result of finding the right balance to unlock the full potential of your skin. Eating and drinking properly is not only less expensive but much healthier over both the short and long term. And a proper rosacea diet reduces the chance of rosacea as well as poor health and diseases such as diabetes, allergies, sinus conditions, obesity, osteoporosis, rheumatism, arthritis, lupus, and cancer. While as a rosacea sufferer we are very concerned about our facial appearances, with some of these aforementioned debilitating diseases, many of these patients don't even want to go out socially. Many of these problems can be prevented or drastically reduced by an alkaline diet as 'acid foods and drinks' cause many of the problems.

Acidic foods and drinks range from 0 to 7 on the pH (potential of hydrogen) while alkaline foods and drinks are in the range of 7 to 14. The human body is most often operating in the 7.4 range or alkaline. All of life’s acids are wearing the body down by reducing the pH. These acids are lactic acid caused by heavy exercise or just the average wearing of body cells over a lifetime. Likewise the improper exhaustion of carbon dioxide from the lungs cause a acid pH level that can turn most people 'pink' or 'red' in 30 seconds. Try holding your breath for a short time.

Rosacea triggers are the result of acid foods and drinks. The focus on acids and alkaline balance are a new concept for many rosacea sufferers. However, most of our lives acids foods, drinks, medications as well as illegal drugs are also defined as "toxic, fat, cholesterol, plaque" or when inside of the body the 'acids' are defined as "cancer, pus, phlegm, coughing, pneumonia, urine or feces" which always denote a hopefully a temporary situation for the build up of toxins.

Rosacea skin care begins with rosacea health care. Rosacea control can be maintained naturally through the proper alkaline/acidic balance. The rosacea community may not have announced a cure for rosacea, but control, management and remission of rosacea are very realistic goals.

Rosacea Triggers

2009-10-16T07:31:00.000-07:00

The successful treatment of rosacea involves many aspects of skin care and total health care. Anything that creates changes in the body or in the facial skin can have an impact rosacea and its treatment. Rosacea is a complex interaction involving several factors and/or conditions. Changing those factors which contribute to your rosacea, may be the key to controlling or even curing your rosacea! Balancing those factors which in the past have influenced your rosacea will help to control or manage your rosacea.

Listed below are many factors which contribute to or aggravate rosacea. As you study them you will find easy simple ways to limit or eliminate a source of your rosacea. Not all factors will influence everyone's rosacea but finding yours may be the key to limiting or controlling your rosacea in a natural way.

1. Drink Water For Stress Reduction and Hydration

You should drink at least ten glasses of water per day to help neutralize the acids that cause your rosacea flushing. It is important to remember to drink water throughout the day even if you do not "feel" thirsty. You should drink considerably more water if you are working outside, playing a sport, or doing anything physically taxing. You should also drink more if you live in a dry climate or have a higher metabolism, anxiety, or stress. Water is needed for skin tissue repair as well as nearly every body process including efficient digestion, absorption, circulation and secretion. Water carries vital nutrients to the skin and all body cells and removes waste.

2. Avoid Stimulants

Stimulants such as coffee, tea, alcohol, cigarettes, and excessive sugar from sweets and soda are highly acidic and throw your body off-balance. They are also vascular dilators, which can directly cause facial flushing. Any chemical powerful enough to "wake you up" in the morning is obviously causing drastic changes in your body. Sufferers of rosacea need the opposite of these acidic stimulants.

3. Reduce or Eliminate Alcohol Consumption

It's best to avoid alcohol or at least minimize alcohol intake. Alcohol is a diuretic; that is, it pushes water out of body cells, causing increased urine production resulting in dehydration. Dehydration causes the skin's pores to shrink, making them more prone to clogging. Also, alcohol inhibits sleep, causing more fatigue and stress, which leads to more rosacea symptoms. A rosacea sufferer who drinks alcohol should follow it with plenty of water to hydrate the body and prevent rosacea flare-ups.

4. Avoid Hot Baths

Hot baths should be avoided, as should very cold water on the affected areas. To prevent vascular dilation, use warm water well below 98.5 degrees on the affected areas so as not to redden the face more. Scrubbing and abrasives should be avoided, as they irritate the skin, which should be left intact as a natural barrier against bacteria. Also, try to take a short bath of approximately five minutes and minimize facial washing.

Change wash-cloths and body towels after each use. They are a great place for adult acne-causing bacteria to grow and be reapplied to the skin later. Wash facial wash cloths, pillow covers, and personal undergarments daily with Clorox to decrease rosacea-related bacterial growth. Change clothes and sheets frequently.

5. Food Allergy

Many rosacea sufferers have other symptoms that suggest the diagnosis of food allergy. Food allergies are always caused by acidic foods and acidic drinks. A red nose, cheeks and red ears act like warning lights that turn on when a food reaction starts. Often, it is the symptoms of food allergy that motivate people to start diet revision (rosacea diet), and an improvement in their rosacea condition is noted along with improvement in other symptoms such as gastrointentestinal disturbances, migraine headache, sinusitis, and fatigue. Foods that are hot (either spicy or thermally) are often the culprit.

6. Avoid Astringent Soaps

Astringent soaps and any astringent agents that shrink the skin pores such as witch hazel, alum, oatmeal, very cold water, and rubbing alcohol should be avoided, as they shrink pores, trapping more body oils in the skin.

7. Get Adequate Sleep

Always sleep at least 8 hours per night to prevent the body from being stressed. Some immune system protective functions do not even engage until one has had 7 or more hours of continuous sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation takes a toll on immune surveillance.

8. Avoid Stress

Stress can be anything that disrupts your body's natural balance. Typically, we think of stress as a reaction to a perceived threat. The pulse rises, the muscles tense, and the immune system begins to shut down as the body prepares for "fight or flight." Many rosacea sufferers notice a flushing of the face as adrenal acid is added to the body system, but the harmful effects of stress go far beyond a red face. Those who can not relieve stress as needed may also experience fatigue, upset stomach, and frequent headaches. These symptoms get much worse over time if the body stays in a stressful state.

9. Avoid Sun Overexposure

Avoid the sun whenever possible. Though sunlight is important for production of Vitamin D, most of us receive a healthy amount of sunlight in our daily chores. There are many harmful effects of sun overexposure, and be aware that some drugs will increase sun sensitivity. Particularly, sunlight can be a factor in ocular rosacea.

Acne Can Affect Rosacea

2009-09-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

Adult acne affects 82% of rosacea patients. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh resulting in damage to the skin which manifests itself in the form of acne. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by superficial skin eruptions around hair follicles. Many of the more commonly accepted products used to treat acne can actually cause further damage to the skin resulting in other skin conditions such as rosacea. Acne pimples occur in 82% of rosacea patients which may be referred to as "acne rosacea". These products are frequently used to open the pores (exfolients, various acid-based products, and retinoids) but can be very drying and irritating to the skin.

Many products when applied to the skin alter the balance of the skin making it susceptible to bacterial growth and infection. Upsetting the skin's natural balance can lead to yeast infections, perioral dermatitis, over production of sebaceous oils, and possibly worsening of the acne condition.

Controlling these conditions and the factors that cause and further irritate them is important in the management of acne and/or rosacea. Factors which can play a role in this include but are not limited to: glycolic-based ingredients frequently found in foundation, anti-wrinkle creams and moisturizers, cleansers containing salicylic acid, alcohol, or benzyol peroxide. If it has the ability to dry or exfoliate, it can alter the natural balance of the skin. Once this balance is disturbed; the skin reacts with pimples, papules, redness, itching, flaking and/or increased sensitivity.

Rosacea Symptoms: Rhinophyma

2009-07-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

Rhinophyma has been observed from ancient times in Greece and Arabia but first named by Hebrea in 1845. The term rhinophyma stems from the Greek words: Rhis (Greek for nose) and phyyma (Greek for growth). A year later in 1846, rhinophyma was first associated with rosacea. Daniel Sennert performed the first known surgery for rhinophyma in 1629.

Rhinophyma is a form of rosacea that is characterized by chronic redness, inflammation, and increased tissue growth of the nose. In the early stages it may be seen as nasal bumps. Rhinophyma commonly occurs as a result of untreated rosacea. As more bumps appear, the nose takes on a more swollen, misshapen appearance. Rhinophyma can take on many different forms. In most forms, the nose is chronically red and inflamed. There is also evidence of swelling, and the skin often shows thickened skin with large pores, resembling the peel of an orange (peau d' orange). In some forms, sebaceous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia (increased growth and number of sebaceous glands) can cause the nose to grow considerably, resulting in a bulbous appearance. It is a more severe form of acne rosacea. The cause is not really known. Rhinophyma has been associated with many causes such as the over-consumption of alcohol. No consistent causative factor has been identified to date. Men are 12 times more likely to have this problem than women.

Symptoms of rhinophyma include an overgrowth of the sebaceous skin glands, vessel and tissue growth in the deeper layers of the skin, and a thickening of the outer layer of the skin. This can make for a very obvious and prominent nose. Non-surgical treatment for rhinophyma is similar to rosacea care and includes attention to skin hygiene, avoidance of foods that seem to worsen the condition and the use of antibiotics when small infections are present.

Rhinophyma is actually a slow growing benign tumor due to hypertrophy of the sebaceous glands of the tip of nose often seen in cases of long-standing rosacea. Rhinophyma appears as a pink, lobulated mass over the nose with superficial vascular dilation; mostly affects men past middle age. Rosacea patient seeks advicenad treatment because of the unsightly appearance of the tumor, or obstruction in breathing and vision due to the large size of the tumor. Treatment consists of paring down the bulk of the tumor with sharp knife or carbondioxide laser and the area allowed to re-epithelialise. Sometimes, tumor is completely excised and the raw area skin-grafted.

The Adverse Effects of Using Toners and Astringents When Treating Rosacea

2009-07-13T08:57:00.000-07:00

Astringent soaps and any astringent agents that shrink the skin pores such as witch hazel, alum, oatmeal, very cold water, and rubbing alcohol should be avoided, as they shrink pores, trapping more body oils in the skin.

Even though your skin may be oily in some areas, it still needs oil as a natural ‘protective barrier’ from bacteria to prevent acne. Many of the over the counter products commonly used in the treatment of acne contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or azelaic acid. These products can be too harsh and drying which results in the body producing more oil to compensate for the oils stripped from the skin by the harsher products. Often your skin still appears oily so you apply more of the product, which in turn causes the skin to produce more oil to protect itself from the harmful ingredients.

Salicylic acid is an ingredient commonly used to remove calluses from your feet. Salicylic acid belongs to the family of ingredients called Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA. Beta Hydroxy Acid or BHA is a derivative of aspirin and is often used in skin care products to accelerate skin cell turnover and help clear pores. It can penetrate more deeply than Alpha Hydroxy Acid and is gentler. This occurs in nature in sweet birch and in wintergreen leaves. Its effect on the epidermis and upper dermis are similar to those of Retin-A, but with less irritation. It is soluble in oil and can exfoliate oily skin areas, even within oil-rich pores. Therefore, it has a beneficial effect on acne, pigmentary disturbances, and sun damaged skin. Because it does exfoliate, use of sun protection is needed. But too much can have a negative effect causing increased facial redness, skin irritation, and more acne.

BHA ingredients may be listed on packaging inserts asunder the following names: Salicylic acid, Salicylate, Sodium salicylate, Willow extract, Beta hydroxybutanoic acid, Tropic acid, or Trethocanic acid. Currently, the most commonly used BHA in cosmetics is salicylic acid. On rare occasions, citric acid is also listed as a BHA in cosmetic formulations; although, citric acid is more commonly considered to be an AHA.

The long-term safety of salicylic acid in cosmetics is being evaluated in studies initiated by FDA and sponsored by the National Toxicology Program. These U.S. government-sponsored studies are examining the long-term effects of both glycolic acid (an AHA) and salicylic acid on the skin's response to ultraviolet (UV) light. These studies have determined that applying glycolic acid to the skin can make people more susceptible to the damaging effects of the sun, including sunburn.
Until these safety assessments are completed, FDA advises that similar precautions be taken for the use of cosmetics containing AHAs and BHAs. These precautions are:
Test any product that contains a BHA on a small area of skin before applying it to a large area. If you use cosmetics with BHAs and experience skin irritation or prolonged stinging, stop using the product and consult your physician. Follow the use instructions on the label. Do not exceed the recommended applications.
Avoid using BHA-containing products on infants and children. Use sun protection if you use a BHA product.

When you skin has become damaged by the use or over use of acne products containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or azelaic acid, applying jojoba oil to the skin “tricks” the skin into thinking there is sufficient oil on the skin so the body slows oil production to that area of the skin to prevent it from being too dry. When the skin is too dry, the skin pores shrink with resulting ‘clogged pores’.

Benzoyl peroxide, like most peroxides, is a powerful bleaching agent. Contact with fabric (including clothing and bed linens) or hair can cause permanent color dampening almost immediately. At high concentrations, benzoyl peroxide is highly flammable and explosive and should be handled with care. In the United States, the typical concentration for benzoyl peroxide is 2.5% to 10% for both prescription and over the counter use.

Other common uses for benzoyl peroxide include dyeing hair, and as an active ingredient in teeth whitening systems. It is also used in the preparation of flour, and can be used as an initiator and catalyst for polyester thermoset resins (as an alternative to the much more hazardous methyl ethyl ketone peroxide). When used as an initiator, benzoyl peroxide is thought to form two identical radical molecules through homolytic cleavage of the peroxide bond.

Benzoyl peroxide breaks down in contact with skin, producing benzoic acid and oxygen, neither of which are significantly toxic. When applied to skin benzoyl peroxide has been shown to induce cancer, but only when used at 100% concentrations; it has not been shown to do this at the far lower concentrations used for treating acne, and at lower concentrations benzoyl peroxide has been found not to be mutagenic or carcinogenic.

Benzoyl peroxide removes the top layer of skin, which also decreases the sun protective effect (roughly SPF 3). This can cause sunburn and premature aging if sun protection is not worn. If sun protection is used, benzoyl peroxide has similar effects to glycolic acid peels which are so-called anti-aging treatments.

Azelaic acid gel is used to clear the bumps, lesions, and swelling caused by rosacea (a skin disease that causes redness, flushing, and pimples on the face). Azelaic acid cream is used to treat acne. Azelaic acid is in a class of medications called dicarboxylic acids. It works to treat acne by killing the bacteria that infect pores and by decreasing production of keratin, a natural substance that can lead to the development of acne. The way azelaic acid works to treat rosacea is not known.

Azelaic acid may cause side effects. The following symptoms are likely to affect the skin you are treating with azelaic acid. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: itching, burning, stinging, or tingling. Some side effects can be serious. The following symptom is uncommon, but if you experience it, call your doctor immediately: rash. Azelaic acid may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

Azelaic acid may be useful as a hair growth stimulant. A research report by Stamatiadis in 1988 suggested that azelaic acid (and combinations of it, with zinc ion and vitamin B6) was a strong type I 5-alpha reductase (5-AR) inhibitor. However, no clinical studies have confirmed its efficancy in helping with hair loss.

SYMPTOMS OF ROSACEA

2009-07-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea can vary substantially from one patient to another, and may include various combinations of rosacea signs and symptoms.

These rosacea symptoms include:

1) Facial rosacea redness or flushing. Facial redness or diffuse redness is one of the most common symptoms of rosacea and frequently appears before other signs and symptoms develop. The flushing factor tends to be cause of comment and embarrassment for the rosacea sufferer. Facial redness or erythema is defined as a lengthy flush of embarrassment or emotion in a social situation that may last for a few minutes to many hours. As the flushing symptom progresses it becomes a more constant redness or blotchy flushed appearance. The redness is generally located on the cheek area but can spread down to the chin, neck or even upper chest. In some cases the forehead may also be involved.

2)Telangiectasis also known as damaged or dilated facial blood vessels or spider veins visible on the surface of the skin. This effect is due to small blood vessels of the face becoming enlarged and emerging closer to the top of the skin to become more visible. Telangiectasia usually appears on the cheek and nose area and is more noticeable as the rosacea flush subsides. These blood vessels take on the appearance of fine red lines coursing through the surface of the facial skin.

3)Rosacea Papules are a small, red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus. Rosacea papules are considered minor when the size is of a small measles lesion, moderate when about the size of a pencil eraser and severe when the papule is the size of a small currency coin or the tip of the little finger. The top of the papule can be flat, pointed, or rounded. Papules are common lesions in acne. Vascular flushing causes these rosacea bumps. Over time, flushing results in leakage of inflammatory cells out of the blood vessels and into the skin. These inflammatory cells then migrate toward the surface of the skin, resulting in inflammatory papules.

4)Rosacea Pustules which is a dome-shaped, fragile lesion containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria. Facial pustules are small red inflamed, pus-filled, blister-like lesions on the skin surface. Vascular flushing in areas around sebaceous glands causes rosacea pustules. Over time, flushing results in leakage of inflammatory cells out of the blood vessels and into the skin. These inflammatory cells then migrate towards the sebaceous gland or pore, resulting in inflammatory pustules. The redness can come and go, but eventually it may become permanent. Furthermore, the skin tissue can swell and thicken and may be tender and sensitive to the touch. Note: Pustules are NOT pimples. Pimples have a bacterial component to their pathogenesis and are also mainly localized in and around the hair follicles.

5) Rosacea facial swelling. Facial swelling occurs when fluid and proteins leak out of facial blood vessels at abnormal rates. Frequent facial flushing leads to increased movement of water and proteins across abnormal blood vessel walls. Over time, this "spillage" overwhelms the lymphatic system (drainage vessels), and leads to fluid build up in the facial skin.

6) Burning sensations on the skin. Many rosacea patients definition of rosacea as a hot burning sensation on the skin similar to what sunburn might feel like. In the early stages of rosacea this burning sensation may come and go. In the later stages of rosacea, the effect can become more constant. The burning sensation of rosacea may last anywhere from hours to days at a time.

7) Ocular rosacea, often described as a red, irritated, gritty feeling in the eyes, the ocular rosacea eyes may also have a swollen, watery appearance. Studies suggest that eye (ocular) symptoms may occur in over half of rosacea patients, and 12 to 20 percent of ocular rosacea patients reported they developed their eye symptoms before developing any facial rosacea symptoms.

8) Rhinophyma is a form of rosacea that is characterized by chronic redness, inflammation, and increased tissue growth of the nose. Rhinophyma can take on many different forms. In most forms, the nose is chronically red and inflamed. There is also evidence of swelling, and the skin often shows thickened skin with large pores, resembling the peel of an orange (peau d' orange). In some forms, sebaceous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia (increased growth and number of sebaceous glands) can cause the nose to grow considerably, resulting in a bulbous appearance.

Medical therapy can be tailored to control various signs and symptoms, and may also prevent rosacea from getting worse.

Acne and Rosacea Can Occur Together

2009-04-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

Rosacea and acne are two entirely different conditions, although they can and do appear together. Rosacea is very often accompanied by acne pimples in over 76% of patients while approximately 35% have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for an even more sensitive skin condition. When the acne and rosacea appear together the result is often called by many names: acne rosacea, rosacea, or adult acne.

Acne can play a role in rosacea. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh resulting in damage to the skin which manifests itself in the form of acne. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by superficial skin eruptions around hair follicles. Many of the more commonly accepted products used to treat acne can actually cause further damage to the skin resulting in other skin conditions such as rosacea. Acne pimples occur in 82% of rosacea patients which may be referred to as "acne rosacea". These products are frequently used to open the pores (exfolients, various acid-based products, and retinoids) but can be very drying and irritating to the skin.

Many products when applied to the skin alter the balance of the skin making it susceptible to bacterial growth and infection. Upsetting the skin's natural balance can lead to yeast infections, perioral dermatitis, over production of sebaceous oils, and possibly worsening of the acne condition.

Controlling these conditions and the factors that cause and further irritate them is important in the management of acne and rosacea. Factors which can play a role in this include but are not limited to: glycolic-based ingredients frequently found in foundation, anti-wrinkle creams and moisturizers, cleansers containing salicylic acid, alcohol, or benzyol peroxide. If it has the ability to dry or exfoliate, it can alter the natural balance of the skin. Once this balance is disturbed; the skin reacts with pimples, papules, redness, itching, flaking and/or increased sensitivity.

JOJOBA OIL

2009-03-31T10:40:00.000-07:00

Jojoba Oil is an excellent moisturizer can be most helpful in protecting the skin from dryness. The importance of Jojoba oil derives from its similarity to the natural restorative oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the dermal layers of the skin. Jojoba oil is non-allergenic and will not clog the pores. The sensitive or damaged rosacea skin will benefit from small concentrations of Jojoba oil for the following reasons:

To help reverse damage to the epidermis caused in the past by harsh soaps, facial washes, and rosacea topical medications.
To help replace moisture lost from the use of facial washes as well as sun, wind and dry weather.
To help enhance skin healing (cell division and growth) within the middle layer of the epidermis.
To help penetration of topical rosacea treatments through the epidermis.
To help normalize the production of prostaglandins in the dermis of the skin. Prostaglandins work as anti-inflammatory substances.

The International Rosacea Foundation

2008-11-18T10:38:00.000-08:00

The International Rosacea Foundation is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to make available easy readable rosacea symptom and the best rosacea treatment information on one web site. This information has been chosen from medical books, medical journal articles, and on the web and with available credits to those rosacea writers. Information provided by the International Rosacea Foundation about products and the best rosacea treatments, medical conditions, and symptoms, has been obtained from the manufacturer's prescription product information inserts and from their web sites sponsoring these products. Rosacea conditions and treatments may vary from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored for each individual case. The secondary mission is to provide research for the best rosacea treatments for rosacea sufferers.

Linda Sy Skin Care Line No Longer Available

2008-11-14T07:57:00.000-08:00

Board certified dermatologist, Linda Sy Fang, MD, originated Linda Sy Skin Care in 1981. The philosophy was to foster a close collaboration between physician, cosmetic chemist and patient-consumer. Products were, and are, developed with emphasis on keeping the formulations simple, functional and elegant. Linda Sy Skin Care was a pioneer in developing the concept of incorporating sunscreens into makeup and moisturizers.

Through on-going educational efforts and excellent product quality, Linda Sy has cultivated a group of enthusiastic dermatologists who not only recommend the products to their patients but have become devoted users themselves. Since 1985, the product line has been available for dispensing in dermatologists' offices.

In 1994 Linda Sy appeared on the World Wide Web, publishing articles and conducting discussion forums as a means of educating the public on the developments in the skin care profession. Her audience is international in scope, and continues to grow, as does her web site. The product line is no longer available on line.

A recent message on the Linda Sy website:

Dear Linda Sy Customers,

I wish to thank you all for your loyal support and confidence in Linda Sy products. I deeply regret that for personal reasons, Linda Sy Skin Care has closed on October 31, 2008. It has been a most fulfilling 25 years!

Many of you have written me requesting that I make our products available online again. I hear you and I hope to find that ideal company that can carry on this task.

With best regards,

Linda Sy MD

Defining Rosacea: Ocular Rosacea

2008-10-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

Ocular Rosacea can also cause a persistent burning and feeling of grittiness in the eyes or inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps. The eyes may become bloodshot and eye lashes sometimes fall out (Dr. Thiboutot). The rosacea ophthalmic signs are exceedingly variable, including blepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, hypopyoniritis, and even keratitis. The rosacea ophthalmic complications are independent of the severity of facial rosacea. Rosacea keratitis has an unfavorable prognosis, and in extreme cases can lead to corneal opacity with blindness. The most frequent signs of ocular rosacea, which may never progress, are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts, quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which it is often confused. A rosacea sufferer needs to consider how their eyes react to bright sunlight as the eyes are very sensitive to sunlight.

Statistics show that more than fourteen million people suffer from some form of rosacea, be it mild or severe. Approximately 60% of patients with rosacea develop related problems affecting the eye (ocular rosacea). Ocular rosacea is a condition in which the facial redness of rosacea travels to the eyelids and in some cases the inner eye area itself. In one study (Starr, McDonald 1969) it was found that ocular rosacea symptoms occurred in 58% of patients. Patients with ocular rosacea most commonly experience irritation of the lids and eye, occurring when the oil-producing glands of the lids become obstructed. Signs and symptoms of ocular rosacea can include chronically red eyes and lid margins, irritated eyelids (blepharitis), styes (chalazion), dry, irritated eyes, burning, and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye. Ocular rosacea may also affect the cornea, causing neovascularization (abnormal blood vessel growth), infections, and occasionally ulcers.

Treating ocular rosacea can be difficult. A dermatologist treats the direct impact of rosacea on the skin but is not trained in the treatment of rosacea involving the eyes. An ophthalmologist specializes in the treatment of eye conditions does not always link this to a co-coordinating treatment for rosacea manifestations of the skin. The worst treatment by ophthalmologist is the use of eye droplets that are 1/3 steroid and 2/3 antibiotics. It does have a temporary effect on the redness but a most negative adverse reaction of the steroid/antibiotic ocular treatment is the "inability to see with clarity" as the steroids take effect. Ocular rosacea combined with Keratitis could lead to blindness.

Rosacea By Any Other Name Is Still Facial Redness

2008-10-22T10:24:00.000-07:00

Rosacea remains one of the last bastions of dermatologic ignorance. Once considered a variant of acne, this common skin disorder seems fairly well entrenched as a disease sui generis. Although oral and topical antibiotics are effective in treating the papular and pustular varieties of rosacea, evidence demonstrates the lack of an infectious origin.

Rosacea has been indelibly linked with the bulbous nose and "gin blossoms" of comedian and alcohol aficionado W. C. Fields, but the condition actually results from a disparate assortment of stimuli acting in concert on a genetically susceptible host. Additionally, an appropriate constitutional diathesis must exist. Although descriptions suggestive of rosacea harken back to biblical times, modern diagnosis and treatment seem intertwined with the pharmaceutical and advertising industries. Patients in our cosmetically conscious society flock to physicians' offices and demand topical salves in lieu of considering requisite behavior modification. - Ken Landow, MD

Common Variants of Rosacea

The phymas

Rhinophyma, long associated with excessive alcohol consumption, but it also may appear without the typical manifestations of less severe disease. Several forms of rhinophyma are recognized, including glabellar, fibrous, actinic, and fibroangiomatous. Nasal involvement ranges from diffuse hyperplasia of the connective tissue to asymmetric, lobular hyperplasia of the sebaceous glands, which distorts the alae. Large purplish ectatic vessels may be present along with photodamaged skin, a pitted surface, and inflammation. The existence of these morphological entities emphasizes the polymorphous appearance of skin plagued by rosacea and the need to avoid preconceived diagnostic stereotypes. Although rhinophyma, by definition, involves the nose, a variety of phymas affect other areas, including the forehead (metophyma), eyelids (blepharophyma), earlobes (otophyma), and chin or jaw (gnathophyma).

Morbihan's disease

Lymphedema, another complication of rosacea, seems to be considerably underdiagnosed. The current classification system identifies this manifestation as a secondary feature of rosacea. Previously referred to as Morbihan's disease, this hard, nonpitting edema supposedly results from lymphatic obstruction of drainage from the facial skin--primarily the forehead, glabella, eyelids, and nose. Consequences include thickening of the integument and prominence of the follicles. The condition may be quite mild, may mimic the appearance of skin stimulated by an excessive concentration of growth hormone, or may resemble the so-called peau d'orange (skin resembling an orange peel) changes of lymphoma.

Ocular rosacea

Ocular involvement in rosacea remains a contentious issue. Reported prevalence varies greatly: between 3% and well over 75% of female patients older than 45 years who have rosacea ultimately present with a variety of ophthalmologic manifestations. The disease may be so mild as to be easily overlooked except by the trained observer. The initial cutaneous involvement in rosacea typically does not include the ocular tissues. However, in up to 20% of cases, the initial assault targets the skin surrounding the eyes. The meibomian gland dysfunction usually begins as tear instability, which consequently leads to complications of dry, itchy eyes; conjunctivitis; photophobia; eye pain; and grittiness or a foreign body sensation. Telangiectasia of the eyelid margins routinely occurs and tends to parallel the cutaneous flushing rather than the extent of skin eruption. Much less frequently, keratitis with ulceration and vascularization of the cornea develops. The precise mechanism linking the skin to the eye in rosacea remains unknown.

Granulomatous rosacea

Patients with this variant of rosacea exhibit small to mid-sized, relatively noninflammatory granulomatous papules or nodules on the cheeks or near the nostrils, eyes, or mouth. These red, yellow, or brown lesions may be present without the more traditional manifestations of rosacea and may lead to considerable diagnostic uncertainty. The precise categorization of granulomatous rosacea is likely to change as the cause of the disease becomes apparent.

Steroid rosacea

Abuse of topical fluorinated corticosteroids persists in spite of warnings to avoid application of these medicines to the face. Except for treatment of a few well-defined dermatologic disorders, use of these compounds should be discouraged. Profligate reliance on these potent antiinflammatory agents precipitates perioral dermatitis and a condition previously but incorrectly referred to as steroid rosacea.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of rosacea is rarely difficult. Occasionally, however, differentiating rosacea from seborrheic dermatitis or adult acne may be problematic. Since all of these conditions are common, they may occur simultaneously. Also, a shared genetic tendency may underlie the conditions, prompting their coexistence.

Differential diagnostic considerations include a variety of miscellaneous skin diseases, depending on the stage of rosacea under consideration. For patients in the earliest prodromal states manifesting only intermittent flushing, possible diagnoses include emotional factors (eg, anxiety), use of certain pharmaceutical agents, and fluctuation of not allowed hormones.

Differential diagnostic considerations in rosacea

Acne
Acne conglobata
Bromoderma
Carcinoid syndrome
Dermatomyositis
Dermatophyte infection
Erysipelas
Folliculitis
Frostbite
Gram-negative folliculitis
HIV
Iododerma
Leukemia
Lupus vulgaris
Lymphoma
Perioral dermatitis
Photodermatitis
Polymorphous light eruption
Sarcoidosis
Seborrheic dermatitis
Steroid rosacea (due to use of fluorinated corticosteroids)
Systemic lupus erythematosus

Adapted from Murray AH. Differential diagnosis of a red face. J Cutan Med Surg 1998;2(Suppl 4):S11-5.

Rosacea-Ltd: An Effective Treatment For Treating Rosacea

2008-07-02T09:02:00.000-07:00

People who suffer from rosacea often have a very sensitive skin which doesn't tolerate certain treatments that include chemicals and other substances which may cause severe damages for the skin. In addition to this, patients should avoid products which may contain certain ingredients, such as retinol, different kinds of acids, alcohol and many other substances which are toxic.
In order to treat rosacea and to ameliorate its symptoms, the specialists have managed to produce a special treatment known as Rosacea Ltd III.

Rosacea Ltd III includes more than 99% snoothing and calming ingredients and has been designed especially for acne ,pimples, seborrheic dermatitis and also for the sensitive skin. It is important to say that Rosacea Ltd III is composed of different ingredients like zinc oxide, magnesium stearate, sodium chloride, copper oxide, substances which don't affect the skin texture such as other sources for cleaning:soap, astringents and lotions which contain alcohol. Much more, Rosacea Ltd is very well tolarated by the body system, does not interact with other drugs, doesn' t produce side effects such as nausea, constipation, watery eyes, burning sensations and not in the last place it is safe for pregnant and nursing women.

First of all, Rosacea Ltd III as a vascular constrictor brings great results in calming the skin and reducing the redness caused by the broken blood vessels. Moreover due his neutral pH, Rosacea Ltd III doesn' t damage the skin but it has a great effect in killing bacteria, fungal cells and viruses.

Secondly, Rosacea Ltd III can also be used in treating acne, pimples and seborreheic dermatitis, infections which usually come along with rosacea. Furthermore, this treatment offers significants results and the time for treating is shorter in comparision to other medicines. Rosacea Ltd has a fast effect, healing the broken capillaries which produce redness on the skin and flushing in less than 2 months. Much more, it clears the rosacea papules and pustules in about 10 days and also has an important role in preventing the recurrence of other pimples and infections caused by rosacea. Thirdly, treatments with Rosacea Ltd III are used in treating the symptoms of ocular rosacea such as blurred vision, red eyes, swelled, dry eyelids and others. Another way to treat rosacea is the well known Sobye's Massage, a mechanism of action which accelerates lymphatic drainage and in this way the facial redness tends to vanish. In addition, facial massages together with cleansing of the face with a washcloth and soap are two efficient methods which help the skin to regain its normal and healthy aspect.

To sum up, Rosacea Ltd III is a blessing for the people who suffer from rosacea being gentle and effective at a low cost and moreover due its neutral pH which has created a special diet known as "rosacea ph balance diet".

Rosacea-Ltd The Rosacea Treatment Pioneers

2008-06-23T11:30:00.000-07:00

The Research team at Rosacea-Ltd were the pioneers in research studies of skin diseases that can and often do co-exist with rosacea. Our findings are that the patients with rosacea have adult acne or "acne rosacea" (raised red lesions with pus caused by a bacterial component that comes to a head before erupting from a white/yellow center) to co-exist with rosacea in approximately 82 percent of rosacea sufferers while 35 percent have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for a most delicate rosacea skin condition. These three co-existing skin conditions often lead initially to mis-diagnosis or delayed diagnosis of rosacea. This delay in the diagnosis of rosacea can result in increased mental suffering or embarrassment for the rosacea patient and thefore rosacea has been known as a 'chronic progressive disease. Treatments such as retinoids, accutane, steroids, laser therapy, and antibiotics have not worked very well and often aggravate, redden or thinned the skin which can cause further sensitivity as most acne products are too aggressive for rosacea. Our objective with Rosacea-Ltd III is to simply do the opposite of most rosacea treatments by leaving the sensitive rosacea skin intact on the face. Most rosacea sufferers have spent many years and much money in their search for the best rosacea treatment yet have only ended up most frustrated. Controlling rosacea is easy, fast and very inexpensive when the cause is understood as the proper management of rosaca can be utilized. The management of rosacea is easier and more effective the quicker that the proper treatment is started. Rosacea does not have to be painful and hinder the rosacea patients professional or social life.

Years of inovative research has lead to the development of Rosacea-Ltd III treatment disks which specialize in leaving the skin barrier intact with an 'invisible application' that penetrates and migrates so that only a very small amount is needed. There are no side effects of any type. Also Rosacea-Ltd III does not affect any other medication in any way; nor does Rosacea-Ltd affect pregnancy or nursing infants. Rosacea-Ltd III can be applied to skin that is sensitive due to rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. The actual physical shape of Rosacea-Ltd III was made for ease in applying the disks around the contours of the face and eyelid. During the past 11 years, 98% of Rosacea-Ltd customers confirm that they are extremely impressed and happy with their results. And the other 2% are most happy to gain a 100% refund while having use of the product during the 120 day guarantee period. Ocular rosacea sufferers have never requested a refund.

The Academic Pharmaceutical Mechanism of Action (How It Works And Why) can be found at our International Rosacea-Ltd-Advantages web Site.

The International Rosacea Foundation Answers The Question: What Is Rosacea Of The Skin

2008-03-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

It is easy to understand the cause or etiology of rosacea. Many rosacea sufferers and researchers easily summarized the triggers and then have learned the cause in the development and can now more easily understand the cure.

Rosacea is a disorder of the blood vessels that causes them to swell, leading to flushing. It is most often caused by the acidic foods and drinks consumed by the rosacea sufferer as most have known the 'triggers' that cause the flushing and redness such as alcohol, coffee, exercise, stress, etc. that are all acidic in nature. The intake of foods and drinks needs to be more alkaline to 'offset' or neutralize or buffer the acids to return the body to a more alkaline condition. A secondary cause is not enough facial exercise to help the flow of arterial blood through the facial area.

Rosacea seems to affect fair-skinned people more often, though it can affect any skin type. Often several people in a family have the condition, thus it is believed to be at least partly genetic. The disorder may be somewhat more common in women, but is often more severe in men. In some cases, it may be associated with migraine headache, other skin disorders, and certain eye disorders, including blepharitis and keretitis.

Any one of the following warning signs can be a signal to seek help before the signs and symptoms become increasingly severe:

Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead.
Small visible blood vessels on the face.
Bumps or pimples on the face.
Watery or irritated eyes.

Dermatologists continue to be baffled by this misunderstood disorder as the components are often multi-factorial. Acne, seborrheic dermatitis, dilated vessels (telangectasia) and ocular rosacea often accompany the skin rosacea. One prominent rosacea expert stated, "We know less about rosacea than any other skin disorder." Dermatologists are frustrated with this misunderstood disorder due to a lack of personal patient history of past rosacea medications and lifestyles as patients often migrated from one dermatologist to another in there desire to find a remedy for their rosacea papules, redness and seborrheic dermatitis. Therefore, the treatment of rosacea must require those totally involved with knowledge of rosacea, the total history of the patient, and for the patient to gain the proper basic knowledge.

Rosacea is aggravated by many factors, including sunlight, physical and mental stress, sinus and allergy conditions, hot liquids, spicy foods, extremes in temperature, alcohol (either topically applied or orally consumed) and stress (Drs. McKoewn, Wilkin, Wilkin, Wilkin). But it is important to note that what aggravates one person's rosacea may have no effect on another person's condition (Dr. Wilkin).

Treating Rosacea Today

2008-03-06T08:33:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is described as inflammation of the skin - Rosacea causes redness (erythema) and symptoms of vasculation of spidery blood vessels (telangiectasia), swelling (hyperplasia), rosacea papules (red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus) and acne pimples. The acne pimples occur in 82% of rosacea patients which may be referred to as "acne rosacea". Seborrheic dermatitis (scaly red irritated sensitive lesion) occurs in 35 percent of rosacea patients. The combination of rosacea, acne, and seborrheic dermatitis symptoms is quite aggravating as seen by years of past efforts as the treatment of one condition aggravates the other two medical conditions. Rosacea left untreated will often progress in severity. Ocular rosacea is a most frustrating eye condition consisting of blepharitis, dry burning, itching eyelids and flaky skin on the eyelids while some patients may also have conjunctivitis. Rosacea if properly treated, does not have to become progressively worse.

Overall 98% of Rosacea-Ltd III users confirm that they have found an excellent improvement in two to three weeks in the beauty of their rosacea skin condition after stopping their previous rosacea treatment that have been too aggressive for the overly sensitive rosacea skin. Former rosacea sufferers see a calming of their facial rosacea redness, dilated facial rosacea vessels and rosacea papules (a small, red solid rosacea skin lesion without pus that is not acne) as well as acne and seborrheic dermatitis after stopping their previous rosacea skin treatment. Most other rosacea treatments of retnoids, steroids and laser treatments thin the skin to make the already problematic rosacea skin even more sensitive with more rosacea redness. Therefore, most rosacea sufferers have not been happy with their past rosacea treatment progress. Our objective is to simply do the opposite of most rosacea treatments by leaving the sensitive rosacea skin intact on the face. Regardless of the rosacea stage of beginning or severe rosacea, we can assist you in meeting your rosacea skin happiness potential.

Many rosacea sufferers have been frustrated for many years with unsuccessful or marginal results from many rosacea skin care products. Antibiotics, retnoids, Accutane, and steroids have been a mainstay of rosacea treatment for years. Rosacea sufferers have noticed that these prescribed treatments and various rosacea laser treatments have not worked well as a rosacea skin care product; also these past treatments for rosacea may have caused additional damage to the sensitive rosacea skin. Oral and topical antibiotic rosacea treatments for adult acne rosacea can work for up to several months before the bacteria become immune to the antibiotic, causing the antibiotic to lose its effectiveness. Oral antibiotic treatment actually cause more rosacea red symptoms. For information on the latest FDA findings, see Bacterial Resistance to Antibiotics.

The research team of Bass & Boney, Inc. is constantly researching for new insight into rosacea and the components of ocular rosacea and other skin problems such as acne, psoriasis, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis. Most dermatologist have stated for years that they are baffled by rosacea and do not understand the cause or etiology of rosacea. And if dermatologist can not understand the cause, then how can they effectively treat rosacea? Therefore most rosacea patients have migrated from one dermatologist to another and spent much time and money in the hopes of solving their rosacea and related acne and or seborrheic dermatitis skin condition. Our team of Rosacea Researchers with 60 years of collective research, led by a Johns Hopkins MD, have confirmed that the cause or etiology of rosacea is an immune system disorder which you may desire to learn more about the "Cause or Etiology of Rosacea ". Rosacea does not have to be a long term disease that is thought by many to become progressively worse.

Symptoms of Rosacea

2007-06-25T11:29:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea can vary substantially from one patient to another, and may include various combinations of rosacea signs and symptoms. These rosacea symptoms include facial rosacea redness or flushing; Telangiectasis also known as damaged or dilated facial blood vessels or spider veins; rosacea papules also described as a solid raised bump that may open when scratched, becoming crusty and infected; pustules which is a dome-shaped, fragile lesion containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria; skin sensitivity; a lumpy or orange-peel texture to the skin; facial swelling; burning sensations on the skin; ocular rosacea, often described as a red, irritated, gritty feeling in the eyes, the ocular rosacea eyes may also have a swollen, watery appearance; the last symptom of rosacea is rhinopyma or nasal bumps that may produce a swollen misshapen appearance to the nose.

Studies suggest that eye (ocular) symptoms may occur in over half of rosacea patients, and 12 to 20 percent of ocular rosacea patients reported they developed their eye symptoms before developing any facial rosacea symptoms. On the other hand, facial redness is one of the most common symptoms of rosacea, and frequently appears before other signs and symptoms develop. Medical therapy can be tailored to control various signs and symptoms, and may also prevent rosacea from getting worse.

The Practical Uses Of Jojoba Oil In The Treatment Rosacea

2007-06-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

Prior to beginning any new rosacea treatment, one needs to prepare the rosacea sensitive skin, and allow the skin to heal from the effects of previous aggressive rosacea treatments, which may have left the skin damaged or overly sensitive. Many rosacea treatments leave the rosacea sufferer's skin so sensitive that "even water hurts their rosacea affected skin".
In the late '60's and early '70's, an event happened to bring natural jojoba oil into the limelight of cosmetic research and development. As people started to become more "environmentally conscious" and realized the finite limitations on many of the world's resources. These nations identified endangered plant and animal species around the world, and soon outlawed the hunting and harvesting of these species and prohibited the use of any materials derived from these sources. Among the endangered species was the sperm whale, whose spermaceti waxes, a mixture of long chain esters, was greatly valued for its functionality in cosmetic applications. Scientists looking to the past, re-discovered jojoba oil. Native Americans have used jojoba for hundreds of years. In the 1700s, Father Junipero Serra, the founder of 21 California missions, noted in his diary that the Native Americans were using the oil and the seeds for many different purposes: for treating sores, cuts, bruises, and burns; as a diet supplement and as an appetite suppressant when food was not available; as a skin conditioner, for soothing windburn and sunburn; as a cooking oil; as a hair or scalp treatment and hair restorative; and as a coffee-like beverage by roasting the seeds. Jojoba oil could not only replace the spermaceti waxes in all applications, but discovered that jojoba oil was actually superior to it.
The importance of jojoba oil in the treatment of rosacea comes from its similarity to the natural restorative oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the dermal layers of the skin. Jojoba oil is non-allergenic and will not clog the pores.

Jojoba oil will help reverse damage to the epidermis caused by harsh soaps, facial washes, and topical rosacea medications. Jojoba oil also helps replace moisture lost from the use of facial peels, chemical treatments, laser and light treatments. It is beneficial in enhancing skin healing (cell division and growth) within the middle layer of the epidermis. Jojoba Oil helps balance sebum excretion (related to acne) and helps normalize keratin sloughing off from the dermis (related to acne).

Jojoba oil is one of the oils that has the best affinity to human skin, and is a moisturizer par excellence and can be used on extra-dry and flaky skin such as is the case in seborrheic dermatitis, to help restore elasticity and smoothness.

As a rosacea treatment, jojoba oil is an effective cleanser, conditioner, moisturizer, and softener for the skin and hair. Jojoba oil can be applied directly to the skin to reduce wrinkles and stretch marks, it can lighten and help heal scars and promotes healthy scalp and hair. Jojoba oil is similar to, and compatiable with, sebum, which is secreted by human sebaceous glands to lubricate and protect skin and hair. When sebum production decreases due to harsh acne or rosacea treatments, age, pollutants, or environmental stresses, jojoba oil can be used to replicate sebum oil.

Jojoba oil has a practical use in the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis which can co-exist with rosacea. Jojoba oil can accumulate around hair roots, thereby conditioning hair and preventing it from becoming brittle and dull. If there is too much sebum buildup on the scalp, it dissolves and removes the sebum, leaving the hair clean. Jojoba oil as a solubilizing agent can also remove sticky buildup on hair from hair preparations as well as airborne particulates deposited on the hair. It forms a lipid layer on the skin, acting as a moisturizer, as well as penetrating and being absorbed by the outer layer of skin.

Jojoba oil is widely used as an ingredient in shampoos, conditioners, facial, hand and body lotions, cuticle and nail care products, baby care lotions, creams, and oils, cleansers, moisturizers, bath oils and soaps, sunscreen lotions, and makeup products. Jojoba oil is also used as a base in the manufacture of perfume. The potential therapeutic uses of jojoba oil include the treatment of rosacea, acne, cold sores, and such skin diseases as eczema and psoriasis.
Natural jojoba oil serves as an excellent moisturizing agent with exceptional spread. The lubrication properties leave a rich velvety non-oily feel on the skin, while retarding water loss and enhancing the flexibility and suppleness of the skin. Jojoba is completely miscible with the natural sebum of the skin, and when used on the skin forms a very thin, non-greasy lipoid layer. This layer is partially porous and provides exceptional trans-epidermal respiration and moisture control. Unlike greasy occlusive materials such as petrolatum, mineral oils and some lanolin products, jojoba oil provides an absolutely non-tacky, non-oily and non-greasy, dry softening to the skin.
It also significantly reduces trans-epidermal water loss, without totally blocking the transpiration of gases and water vapor. The kinking of jojoba’s “cis” configuration helps to avoid the tight packing of hydrocarbon chains, thereby preventing this water-loss function.

Understanding Ocular Rosacea

2007-02-21T06:39:00.000-08:00

Ocular Rosacea is an inflammatory eye condition often associated with acne rosacea. Ocular rosacea can cause a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. For others, ocular rosacea manifests itself as inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps, eye lashes that may fall out, compounded by bloodshot eyes (Dr. Thiboutot). The ophthalmic signs of ocular rosacea can vary widely, including blepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, hypopyoniritis, and even keratitis. (These conditions will be described in detail below.) The term ophthalmic or ocular rosacea covers all these signs. The most frequent signs, which may never progress to a more severe condition, are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts, quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which ocular rosacea is often confused. Pain and photophobia (abnormal sensitivity to light) may be present. The ocular complications are independent of the severity of facial rosacea (Drs. Gerd Plewig & Albert M. Kligman).

It is reported that 50 to 60% of all rosacea sufferers also have some sort of symptoms with their eyes which is known as ocular rosacea. In one study (Starr, McDonald 1969) it was found that ocular rosacea symptoms occurred in 58% of patients.

Sometimes (perhaps 20% of the time) ocular rosacea problems occur prior to the typical skin related rosacea symptoms though it is more usual (about 53% of the time) for the skin symptoms to appear first. (Borrie, 1953).

Ocular rosacea patients generally have chronically "bloodshot" eyes, dry eyes, and blepharitis (inflammation and debris of the eyelid margins). In severe ocular rosacea, there may be corneal ulceration (infection) which, if untreated, may even lead to perforation of the eye. This can be a potentially blinding complication.

FDA Issues Warnings About Numbing Creams Used In Laser treatments

2007-02-07T06:58:00.000-08:00

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - People who use large amounts of skin-numbing creams and lotions, often in conjunction with cosmetic procedures, are at risk of irregular heartbeats, seizures and even death, U.S. health officials warned on Tuesday.
The Food and Drug Administration, citing two deaths, said such topical anesthetics can be applied in amounts so large that a lethal dose of the chemicals can enter the bloodstream.
A 22-year-old woman and a 25-year-old woman who applied numbing creams after laser hair removal on their legs later died, the agency said
After the procedure, "these women then wrapped their legs in plastic wrap, as they were instructed, to increase the creams' numbing effect. Both women had seizures, fell into comas, and subsequently died from the toxic effects of the anesthetic drugs," the FDA said.
Numbing creams and lotions, available both by prescription and over the counter, are approved to soothe burning or itching skin as well as pain before, during and after various procedures. They contain numbing drugs that can include lidocaine, tetracaine, benzocaine and prilocaine.
But the FDA said consumers should be cautious about using them without medical supervision.
Leaving the creams on the skin for long periods of time or on large portions of their bodies can increase the risk, officials have said. Small children and people with heart or severe liver disease are also at higher risk.
People considering skin-related cosmetic or medical procedures should talk to their doctors about whether they need numbing creams, the agency said. If so, they should use one that is FDA-approved and contains the lowest amount of anesthetic possible.
"You should also discuss with your doctor whether there are other ways to reduce the pain you may feel during the procedure," it added.
In December, the FDA also warned five pharmacies that mixed their own versions of topical anesthetics.

Rosacea Support

2007-01-25T08:25:00.000-08:00

The Rosacea Support Group is a no-cost, moderated, email group for rosacea sufferers to offer support to each other as a community of fellow rosacea sufferers who are willing to share their symptoms, and their successful and failed treatments.

The email group functions as an online rosacea self help group. The Rosacea Support Group was created as a e-mail support group for rosacea suffers to post to the rosacea forum, rosacea chat, or rosacea bulletin board. The Rosacea Support Group is for members to exchange information about rosacea symptoms and rosacea treatments that are listed as 'the stand of care' by physicians as well as other non prescribed medication over the counter or via the internet.

Being a rosacea sufferer can be a lonely problem socially, professionally and even with your family. Seems like so many do not really understand. Also, some that do not know you very well may even consider you and alcoholic as redness is a symptom of heavy alcohol abuse. Well we are just having a glass of wine and we get judged. Even sometimes our dermatologist who is treating us consider us to be whiners. And out of the door we go within 7 to 10 minutes after finally getting to see the 'rosacea specialist' that we have waited on for the last 30 to 45 minutes as the 'doc' is late. Just you and your loved one alone with the rosacea problem and they do 'not understand' as they do not have this red face problem. And it is not a cold to get over in 3-4 days and back to work or a late cold or influenza that continues even after we return to our vocation career chores, but rosacea goes onward day after day, month after month and year after year. Why does someone in our own family understand. And especially the dermatologist or family doctor that has known me for several years? Why? And understanding is one thing but going ahead and giving me "the best Rosacea Treatment' up front and cut the chase! Let's solve this problem. I have told you my problems and now please provide me the answer ! Soon ? I have been coming to your office for years and even before that I have migrated from one dermatologist to another for year. And moved three times over the years and the rosacea dermatologist in my old residence and this one in the new city can not seemingly get the rosacea under control! What's the problem? Few others to talk to, and maybe no one around who truly understands what it is you are going through. Being a rosacea sufferer can send your emotions on a 'chronic incurable roller coaster ride' -- in any 24-hour period you can experience fear, rage, hope, sadness, humor, grief, bravery, fatigue, dedication and be overwhelmed with love.

Have you reached "Rosacea Burnout" Most of us have learned that job, family and love life and dating, educational institutions, death and divorce, etc. are some of the causes of rosacea. However, when you have the regular problem that non rosacea sufferers have with the additional problems of redness and rosacea papules, seborrheic dermatitis and acne pimples at ages of 25 to 55 and still not being an alcoholic or teenager causes 'stress in itself'. The rosacea stress and and the 'regular work day' can lead to what is known as 'Rosacea Burnout'. This stage is when you are beyond exhaustion with family, friends, other work peers or students, and also with your dermatologist. It is when you are drained of all physical, spiritual, emotional reserves and sometimes "financial reserves" and when when you feel as though you just can't fight this red battle any longer....then you may possible consider the outreach of The Rosacea Support Group !

The Rosacea Support Group offers a 'safe space' to vent... ! So what steps have you taken or are you willing to take to ensure you don't reach 'Rosacea Burnout' for your family that is dependent on you, and for yourself. The Rosacea Support Group is becoming more and more popular. Sure it may not be 'for you' but it could be 'for me' as we all are 'different'. The Rosacea Support Group offers a safe place to share emotions and experiences, and exchange practical 'personal and treatment' information with others.

You're not alone. . . ! The Rosacea Support Group helps you see that your situation is not unique, that you are not alone in your feelings and experiences with your present and past experiences. Just as importantly, you can use The Rosacea Support as a resource to find other people who have struggled with the same problems as you and have ended up on the 'high side' in their rosacea experiences. As a rosacea sufferer, you may begin to rely more on your informal intimate network of rosacea sufferers rosacea support than your dermatologist or your 'normal friends.

Enjoy friends in the rosacea community! You will find the Rosacea Support Group and the Rosacea Support Posting Group a most interesting group to join if you have the time to chat. Or you will might find the list of HIGHLIGHTS to be helpful as a shorter course in rosacea education.

Galderma New Kit For Rosacea Treatment Is Still The Old MetroGel

2007-01-17T12:07:00.000-08:00

Galderma Laboratories, L.P. today announced the availability of a new MetroGel(R) 1% Kit for the topical treatment of the inflammatory lesions of rosacea. The new kit contains a 60 gm tube of the leading topical prescription treatment for Rosacea, MetroGel(R) (metronidazole) Topical Gel, 1%. Also included in the kit is a complimentary 4 fl. oz. bottle of Cetaphil(R) Gentle Skin Cleanser, the number-one skin cleanser recommended by dermatologists, plus a patient education brochure with information about rosacea trigger factors, symptoms and treatment. The brochure contains a $2.00-off coupon for future purchases of Cetaphil(R) brand cleansers and moisturizers.
MetroGel(R) 1% Kit, with its additional contents, is the same cost as a regular 60gm tube of MetroGel(R) 1%, and the MetroGel(R) 1% Kit is currently available to rosacea patients in pharmacies nationwide. "This is a natural extension for our MetroGel(R) brand franchise. The combination of proven, effective treatments and patient education provides additional value to the patient," said Albert Draaijer, President of Galderma Laboratories, L.P.
MetroGel(R) 1%, incorporates a vehicle containing HSA-3(TM), a combination of niacinamide, betadex and propylene glycol. The vehicle is a water-based formulation and contains no alcohol. The product requires once-a-day dosing as opposed to twice-a-day for most other topical rosacea treatments.
According to a study published in the April 2006 issue of Cutis, "A good skin care regimen is a critical part of rosacea treatment, but care must be taken to choose products that do not irritate as rosacea patients typically have sensitive skin."(1) Cetaphil(R) Gentle Skin Cleanser is specifically formulated for dry, sensitive or compromised skin and will not strip the natural protective oils or emollients, or disturb the skin's natural pH balance.
"The beneficial effect of Cetaphil(R) Cleanser for the sensitive skin of rosacea patients has been verified in clinical trials. Combining MetroGel(R) 1% and Cetaphil(R) Cleanser in a Kit at no additional cost is of substantial value-and provides automatic convenience for rosacea patients," said Dr. James Del Rosso, a dermatologist practicing in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Personal Communication)
An estimated 14 million Americans suffer from rosacea, characterized by redness, flushing and blushing on the face. However, many people in the early stages of rosacea mistake their symptoms for sunburn, rash or acne, causing them to delay diagnosis and treatment. The chronic disorder primarily affects the cheeks, chin, nose and forehead. Unfortunately, without treatment, rosacea can worsen over time, with the initial redness worsening and becoming more persistent. Visible blood vessels may appear, bumps and pimples may form on the face, eyes may appear to be bloodshot, and eventually, excess tissue may develop on the nose. Recent surveys reveal that almost 70 percent of rosacea patients suffer socially and that their self-esteem is affected by the condition.(2)
The following adverse experiences have been reported with the topical use of metronidazole: burning, skin irritation, dryness, transient redness, metallic taste, tingling or numbness of extremities, and nausea

Does Milk Cause A Rosacea Flush?

2007-01-10T08:25:00.000-08:00

Article may indicate that consuming milk will intensify a rosacea flush.

By Steven Reinberg
HealthDay Reporter

Plenty of studies have suggested that tea is a boon for cardiovascular health, but new research has found that adding milk to your favorite brew negates those benefits.
The culprits in milk is a group of proteins called caseins that interact with tea, decreasing the concentration of catechin -- the flavonoids in tea that are responsible for its protective effects against heart disease, according to the study authors.
"There are a lot of studies that show that tea is protective against cardiac diseases," said lead researcher Dr. Verena Stangl, professor of cardiology at the Charite Hospital, Universitatsmedizin-Berlin, in Germany. "If you look at the studies, you see that in Asia there are less cardiac diseases, but in England that's not the case. So the question is, is the addition of milk a reason for this difference between Asia and England, where tea is often taken with milk?" she said.
In the study, 16 healthy postmenopausal women drank either half a liter of freshly brewed black tea, black tea with 10 percent skimmed milk, or boiled water on three different occasions under similar conditions. The researchers then measured the function of the cells lining the brachial artery in the forearm, using high resolution ultrasound before and two hours after tea consumption.
Stangl's team found that black tea significantly improved the ability of the arteries to relax and expand. "But when we added milk, we found the biological effect of tea was completely abolished," she said.
Additional experiments on rat aortas and rat endothelial cells -- which line blood vessels -- found that tea relaxed the vessels. But adding milk blunted the effect.
"If you want to drink tea for its health effects, don't drink it with milk," Stangl said.
The study findings are published in the Jan. 9 online edition of the European Heart Journal.
Stangl noted that not only does milk block tea's benefits for blood vessels, it also destroys the antioxidant effects of tea and perhaps its cancer-protective effects as well.
She said her team is also comparing the effects of green and black tea on the function of blood vessels. "It's a question whether green tea, with its higher catechin content, is better than black tea in regard to endothelial function," she said.
One expert agreed that you should hold the milk when drinking tea.
"This is actually something we tell patients to do -- not to have milk in tea," said Dr. Robert Vogel, a professor of medicine at the University of Maryland Medical School.
Tea is one of the greatest sources of antioxidants, Vogel said. "In countries where they drink a lot of tea, heart disease is decreased, except for the British Isles. It is typical in Great Britain to add milk."
Vogel's advice is simple. "Add lemon not milk. You should not add milk or cream to tea -- it's a very good drink, but not with milk," he said.

Medications Used To Treat Rosacea

2007-01-05T12:31:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is a very common but still unknown inflammatory skin disease. It affects areas of the facial skin: cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, in some cases eyes can be affected as well. Redness, papules, bumps with pus and some other symptoms of rosacea show the significant resemblance to acne. It is however important to remember that these are two different skin conditions and different treatments are prescribed for them. In fact some ingredients used in acne medications such as benzoyl peroxide, retinol, vitamin C, alcohol or any type of acids can be rather harmful and make rosacea symptoms worse. Therefore you should not start the treatment on your own, pay a visit to the specialist.

Though rosacea can't be cured altogether, there are a variety of medications that help to relieve and control the condition.
The medications that are used to treat rosacea can be theoretically divided into the following groups:
1. Oral antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are mainly used for moderate and severe cases of the disease. They help to relieve the inflammation of the skin and to diminish the number of papules and pustules; they also effectively treat eyelid inflammation associated with rosacea. The most commonly used oral antibiotics are tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline. The improvement is usually seen in 3-4 weeks after starting treatment with oral antibiotics. As soon as symptoms are improved the course of antibiotics should be canceled. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, usage of any antibiotic is related to the side-effects and secondly, bacteria can build immunity to antibiotics when using them for a long time and they will lose their effectiveness. In some severe cases of papulopustular and phymatous rosacea isotretinoin can be prescribed. It belongs to the group of retinoids and is considered to be a very powerful medication with many side-effects. Therefore it is used only as alternative treatment in the cases where other medications have failed to help.
2. Topical antibiotics. Along with oral antibiotics topical antibiotics are often prescribed. The most widely spread topical antibiotic is metronidasole. It can be in the form of a gel or cream and is used for milder cases of the condition. Metronidasole is effective against red bumps, burning, itching and can minimize recurrences of rosacea flare-ups. Other topical antibiotics that are used to treat rosacea are tretinoin (also known as Retin-A or Renova), clindamycin, erythromycin and some other. Patients applying topical antibiotics should arm themselves with patience and thoroughly follow application directions. The achievement of considerable results may take up to two months.
3. Non-prescription medications. Rosacea sufferers should be very careful as to over-counter treatments. Many of them contain ingredients that can do more harm than good. But on the other hand some of them are rather soothing, effective and can significantly relieve rosacea symptoms. Here should be mentioned Rosacea-Ltd III disks (they result in decrease of facial redness, reduction of the size of the capillaries and the number of papules. They also slow down the growth of bacteria), Rosacure (anti-redness face cream), Redness and blemish control (preventive agent against blemishes).
4. Laser treatment. In this kind of treatment light energy is used that makes the dilated blood vessels shrink. There are vascular laser and intense pulsed light machines emitting specific waves of light that can penetrate the epidermis of the skin and treat tiny visible veins. Laser therapy is very successful in treating rosacea but in some cases it should be conducted several times.
Certainly to achieve the best results it’s often required to use more than one kind of medications. But this decision should be made by the dermatologist. Rosacea is a very unsuitable case for self-cure. The disease is much more than redness of the skin and a number of papules it can have such complications as peripheral vasodilation, conjunctivitis, telangiectasia or rhinophyma. Therefore it is important to start medically appropriate treatment in time. Lyudmyla

Clinical Definition Of Rosacea

2007-01-05T11:48:00.000-08:00

To get a clear picture of rosacea, you may wish to start with a clinical definition of rosacea. Rosacea is a hereditary, chronic (long term) skin disorder that most often affects the nose, forehead, cheekbones, and chin (Dr. Berasques). Groups of tiny microvessels (arterioles, capillaries, and venules) close to the surface of the skin become dilated, resulting in blotchy red areas with small papules (a small, red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus, that is minor when the size is of a small measles lesion, moderate when about the size of a pencil eraser, and severe when the papule is the size of a small currency coin or the tip of the little finger) and pustules (pus-filled inflammatory bumps). The redness can come and go, but eventually it may become permanent. Furthermore, the skin tissue can swell and thicken and may be tender and sensitive to the touch.

Legal Issues For Rosacea's Dr. Bitter

2007-01-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

Doctor faces sanctions over bogus Botox
By Barbara Feder
Ostrov Mercury News

A prominent Los Gatos dermatologist is facing sanctions from the state medical board for injecting patients, including his wife, with bogus Botox. Dr. Patrick Henry Bitter Jr., was among more than 200 doctors around the country who purchased experimental botulinum toxin, the main ingredient in wrinkle-relaxing Botox, from an Arizona company.

The toxin, which was not approved for human use, came to light in late 2004 when a doctor improperly mixed a batch, causing severe paralysis of four people in Florida. The doctors were customers of Tucson-based Toxin Research International, which illegally marketed the toxin to them as a cheap Botox substitute that would bring in higher profits. The company was shut down in early 2005 and its doctor-owners are in prison.

Bitter, who has appeared on the TV show ``Extreme Makeover'' and is nationally known for inventing the FotoFacial skin-treatment procedure, is one of several California doctors who have been investigated or disciplined by the medical board in recent months for using the unapproved drug. It's unclear what sanctions Bitter will face.

Any remaining unapproved toxin was relinquished to federal investigators, and no other major adverse effects were reported from its use. But experimental botulinum toxin is still being marketed to American doctors, primarily by overseas companies.

Bitter is the inventor of FotoFacial and PhotoFacial, pulsed light treatments for wrinkles, redness and rosacea used by doctors around the country. With his father, Dr. Patrick Bitter Sr., he continues to run the Advanced Aesthetic Dermatology clinic, offering skin treatments, Botox injections and liposuction among other cosmetic services.

He did not return phone calls from the Mercury News. The fallout from the Toxin Research International scandal continues as doctors around the country have been disciplined by regulators, indicted and even imprisoned for passing off the company's Botox knockoff as the real thing.

Use brings prison time In June, a New Mexico doctor was indicted on federal charges of fraud after giving the fake Botox to 120 patients.

Earlier this month, an Oregon doctor was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for using two kinds of fake Botox, from Toxin Research International and a Chinese company, on more than 800 patients. An Idaho doctor also was sentenced to six months in prison in mid-December for using botulinum toxin from Toxin Research International.

Botox is a huge moneymaker for pharmaceutical firm Allergan, with 2005 sales topping $830 million.

It's a lucrative part of many dermatologists' and plastic surgeons' practices: Botox injections can cost consumers $250 or more per area treated, with the drug lasting only three to five months. A vial costs doctors about $500 and can yield treatment for up to eight areas.

Made from a purified form of the botulinum type A toxin that causes botulism, Botox has become so widely available that it is even injected by nurses in shopping mall ``medi-spas'' supervised by a physician. Botox also is used to treat neurological disorders, migraines and excessive sweating.

Botox works by causing temporary paralysis of facial muscles, relaxing them under the skin and thus smoothing wrinkles. Toxin Research International obtained the botulinum toxin from Campbell-based List Biological Laboratories, but investigators from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration could not establish that List had done anything illegal. List sells products designed to be used in scientific and medical research, and no charges were filed against the company.

While FDA investigators said Botox and the unapproved toxin appeared similar, using unapproved medicine is considered dangerous because there is no monitoring of storage, sterility or manufacturing practices.

The FDA might never have known about the bogus Botox if a Florida doctor with a suspended license hadn't made a nearly fatal error in mixing the potent toxin for injection in himself, his girlfriend and another couple. Within days, all four were paralyzed from a massive overdose causing botulism so severe they depended on ventilators to breathe. They remained hospitalized for weeks.

While three other doctors in California have received public reprimands for dispensing unapproved botulinum toxin -- one Temecula physician injected it into 200 patients -- the stories behind their cases were not made public by the medical board.

The board's accusation against Bitter, the only one made public, alleges that the board-certified dermatologist lied when he told its investigators in January that he did not know the knockoff Botox was not to be used on humans.

In fact, he had admitted months earlier to FDA investigators that he knew the product wasn't intended for human use. Bitter purchased the unapproved toxin from Toxin Research International for more than a decade, at least until February 2004, according to the medical board investigation.

He admitted that he injected the toxin into himself, his wife and four patients between December 2003 and March 2004. There is no information about whether the toxin Bitter administered caused any adverse effects, but typically the medical board would detail such harm if it had occurred.

Bitter also did not tell his patients that he was using a product meant only for research and did not maintain any paperwork on the injections for himself, his wife and one of his patients, the medical board has charged.

Range of penalties To the medical board, those actions constitute ``gross negligence'' and ``extreme departures'' from the standard practice of medicine.

Bitter faces penalties that could include fines, probation or even revocation of his license. He could, however, face only the public reprimand given the other California doctors who used the Botox knockoff.

Bitter is contesting the board's move to sanction him, but a hearing date has not been set. Consumers who stick with FDA-approved Botox shouldn't worry, said Dr. Michael Kane, a Manhattan plastic surgeon and author of ``The Botox Book.'' `

`Botox itself is a tremendously safe product; they have great quality control,'' Kane said. But, he cautioned, research-grade botulinum toxin and counterfeit Botox still are available on the black market and a determined doctor could simply inject a bogus product into an actual Botox vial. Potential patients can research their doctors on the Internet as a basic precaution, he said, but there are no guarantees. ``It's tough to really protect yourself,'' Kane said. `

`If someone is basically evil, you can get the bad stuff.''

Contact Barbara Feder Ostrov at bfeder@mercurynews.com or (408) 920-5064.

Does Santa Claus Have Rosacea?

2006-12-19T08:46:00.000-08:00

With his flowing white beard, bulbous red nose and rosy red cheeks, Santa Claus is the epitome of the Christmas season. But do his flushed features mean he is suffering the effects of one too many hot toddies at the festive fireside - or are they the result of rosacea, made worse by cold Nordic temperatures?
Santa's prominent reddened complexion are classic symptoms of a condition that affects 6 million women and men over the age of 40 in the UK.
Often mistaken for adult acne, rosacea can cause: flushing,acne-like bumps and pimples and visible veins on the face and neck. In its severe stages, the nose can become deformed, turning red and bulbous if left untreated.
Surveys reveal that those suffering from the condition:
- 7 in 10 people with rosacea suffer from low self-confidence and self-esteem
- 7 in 10 say that it affects their working life
- 4 in 10 have avoided being seen in public or have cancelled social plans
- A further 1 in 3 admit to calling in sick at work because ofrosacea
Despite the numbers affected, few approved therapy options have been available. Studies show that one treatment option, Rosacea-Ltd is effective and well tolerated. It is also not an antibiotic and itdoes not promote antibiotic resistant 'superbugs'.
Knowing that there is an effective treatment option available can make all the difference. Up to 98% can expect to see real improvement in their symptoms if they adhere to the treatment regimen that has been recommended to them. Those who continue to use their rosacea therapy as directed will be able to keep their rosacea under control.

Theories On What Causes Rosacea?

2006-12-13T08:01:00.000-08:00

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. One theory is that some people have blood vessels that are easily irritated. Another possible cause is tiny mites that normally live on our skin. People with rosacea have more of these mites on their faces than those who don't have the disease.
Pimples may result when a flare-up of rosacea heats the skin, causing bacteria to grow. Flare-ups often start when certain triggers cause the blood vessels in the face to dilate, or expand, which causes redness. Common triggers are exercise, hot weather, stress, spicy foods, alcohol, and hot baths. Swings in temperature from hot to cold or cold to hot can also trigger a flare of rosacea.

Is ETS a Viable Treatment For Rosacea?

2006-12-13T07:50:00.000-08:00

TruthAboutETS Mission Statement
The purpose of TruthAboutETS is to provide information and editorial opinion on matters related to sympathectomy. I am an ETS patient, having had a T2-T4 ganglia resection with Harmonic Scalpel on October 11, 2002. The articles and editorials are based on my personal experience, and extensive research I have done in the years following my surgery.
I am not a doctor, but I believe that the information presented is medically correct. In fact, I maintain that TruthAboutETS is the most complete and scientifically accurate source of ETS information anywhere, at least in the English language. If and when any inaccuracies are brought to my attention, it is my policy to correct them immediately.
Having said that, the information on this site does not constitute medical advice, and I cannot be responsible for the outcome of anyone's medical treatment. If you are considering any type of surgery, I strongly recommend seeking the advice of a medical professional who has no financial stake in your decision.
Similarly, I am not an attorney. I may offer my opinion about litigation revolving around sympathectomy, but it does not constitute legal advice, and I cannot be held responsible for anyone's legal problems.
My given name is Alex Baker. My online name is "songboy1234". I post on this site and several internet forums under that name and no other. I was born in 1960 and I currently reside in Sherman Oaks, California, USA.
I think it is fair to characterize the entire TruthAboutETS site as "anti-ETS". I certainly did not begin with that point of view. I consented to ETS surgery with the belief that it would reduce my excessive sweating down to normal, that it would make my good life even better. I could not have been more mistaken. The effects of the autonomic nerve damage have ruined my emotions, my body, my career, my marriage, my life. I met many other victims whose stories were remarkably similar to my own. I learned the physiology and the history and the literature. I am anti-ETS because the facts are anti-ETS.
I began TruthAboutETS in 2004 with one goal in mind: to create the website I wish I had seen prior to my ETS surgery. I have accomplished my original objective. Now I will not stop adding to this site until I believe every prospective sympathectomy patient has access to adequate information. Foremost among my new goals is to create a state-of-the-art medical animation showing the function of the autonomic nervous system, and what happens to the human body when part of it is destroyed.
Thank you for visiting, and I hope you find the site useful and informative.
Alex Baker (Songboy1234)

Anti-Inflammatory May One Day Be Used For Rosacea

2006-12-04T10:35:00.000-08:00

Biochemists have discovered that an African plant called Grains of Paradise, a food item for centuries in West Africa, contains a powerful anti-inflammatory substance. The compound has been licensed to biotechnology companies, and will soon be in cosmetics and, scientists hope, new drugs. The drugs would treat arthritis, heart disease and other conditions with inflammation such as rosacea as their root cause.

Benefits Of Zinc In The Treatemnt Of Rosacea

2006-11-28T11:07:00.000-08:00

Zinc gluconate continues to surprise:
1. Anti-inflammatory actions (30 to 50 mgs per day)
2. Anti-acne actions comparable to minocycline
3. Kills bacteria -- e.g. bacteriostatic
4. Helps reduce bacterial resistance to antibiotics Eur J Dermatol. 2005 May-Jun;15(3):152-5.

Related Articles, Links Effect of zinc gluconate on propionibacterium acnes resistance to erythromycin in patients with inflammatory acne: in vitro and in vivo study. Dreno B, Foulc P, Reynaud A, Moyse D, Habert H, Richet H. Department of Dermatology, CHU Nantes, 44035 Nantes cedex 01, France. brigitte.dreno@wanadoo.fr

Tetracyclines and macrolide antibiotics have been in use for acne treatment for more than 20 years. Since 1992 increasing resistance to these antibiotics, and especially to erythromycin, is reported with Propionibacterium acnes. Zinc salts have demonstrated their efficacy in inflammatory acne treatment as well as their bacteriostatic activity against Propionibacterium acnes. The objective of our work was firstly to determine whether the clinical anti-inflammatory efficacy of zinc salts was altered in the presence of erythromycin resistant strains in vivo, and secondly to study the in vitro and in vivo effect of zinc on the sensitivity of Propionibacterium acnes strains to erythromycin. Thirty patients with inflammatory acne were treated by zinc gluconate with a daily dose of 30 mg for two months and bacteriologic samples were taken at D0, D30 and D60. In vivo, this study displayed a reduction in the number of inflammatory lesions after a 2-month treatment whether or not Propionibacterium acnes carriage was present. Concurrently, in vitro addition of zinc salts in the culture media of Propionibacterium acnes reduced resistance of Propionibacterium acnes strains to erythromycin. Thus, association of zinc salts via a systemic route and topical erythromycin treatment seems an interesting option in the light of an increasing number of patients carrying erythromycin resistant Propionibacterium acnes strains.

Zinc salts can be found topically in Rosacea-Ltd.

Rosacea Support Resource Pages Comments On Rosacea-Ltd

2006-11-15T08:02:00.000-08:00

These pages hold in-progress web pages for the benefit of Rosacea Support Group members. Information provided herein is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice offered by a physician or qualified healthcare provider. Feedback welcome to wiki-feedback@rosacea-research.org

Rosacea-Ltd III is a non-prescription line of disks containing zinc oxide, magnesium stearate, sodium chloride, iron oxide, copper oxide, polyethylene glycol, and sulfur (see Sulfur / Sodium Sulfacetamide Topicals) that many rosaeans have found helpful in controlling rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis symptoms. Still others find sulfur products too irritating.
Useful links:
http://www.rosacea-ltd.com/

Generic Metronidazole Gets FDA Approval

2006-11-08T10:35:00.000-08:00

The first generic version of MetroGel-Vaginal (metronidazole vaginal gel) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat bacterial vaginosis, the agency said Wednesday.
The condition, caused by an overgrowth of vaginal bacteria, may be accompanied by symptoms including discharge, odor, pain, itching or burning, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says. It's the most common vaginal infection among women of childbearing age.
MetroGel-Vaginal is produced by 3M Co.; license to produce the generic equivalent was granted to Colorado-based QLT USA Inc.
Generic drugs, now used to fill more than 50 percent of all prescriptions, can cost a fraction of the price of their brand-name equivalents, the FDA said. "Consumers and health professionals can be assured that an approved generic drug is bioequivalent to the brand-name drug and is its equal in dosage, form, strength, and route of administration, quality, performance characteristics, and intended use," the agency said.

Metronidazole is used extensively to treat rosacea.

Herbal Therapies For Rosacea Treatment

2006-11-02T10:55:00.000-08:00

People are more often choosing herbal remedies to treat their chronic rosacea.
"Increasingly, our patients are using products both externally and internally that are not pharmacologic," says Jessica Wu, M.D., founder and president of Dr. Jessica Wu Cosmeceuticals. Dr.Wu The good news is that many sufferers of the chronic disease are finding relief from the anti-inflammatory properties in herbs. The not-so-good-news is that for some patients, certain herbs can worsen their condition.
In addition, patients don't always tell their physicians about the complimentary medications they are using so they can be monitored.
"So whether or not we specifically question our patients about the products they are using, they are using them because they are seeing nutritionists, herbalists and Chinese medicine practitioners who are prescribing topical and oral supplements that might positively or negatively affect their rosacea. It really behooves us as physicians to be familiar with some of the more common herbal ingredients because some of them may either help or hinder their rosacea," Dr. Wu tells Dermatology Times.
Experts estimate that the use of herbal products increased 380 percent between 1990 and 1997. With this kind of consumer interest, it's imperative that dermatologists be aware of what herbal remedies patients are using and then be able to advise them about the benefits as well as any downsides.
The most effective and frequently used herbal compounds for relief of rosacea are feverfew, green tea, licorice, lavender, oatmeal, chamomile, tea tree oil and camphor and most recently, MimyX (Stiefel).
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)
A recent study found that 45 days of treatment with 1 percent feverfew PFE (parthenolide-free extract) Aveeno Daily Moisturizer Ultracalming, improved mild inflammatory acne by halting the release of inflammatory markers from stimulated lymphocytes.
It also reduced neutrophil chemotaxis, thus making it a practical treatment for rosacea.
Green tea (Camellia sinensis)
The derivatives of green tea have amazing anticarcinogenic properties, as well as the potential to reduce inflammation and provide antioxidants.
All of these properties are especially beneficial for people with rosacea since intrinsic sun sensitivity is a staple of the disease. Green tea may also reduce reactions to ultraviolet light as well as the visual signs and symptoms of rosacea. An added plus is that green tea has been known to decrease skin barrier disruptions, a common side effect in persons suffering with the disease.
Licorice (glycyrrhizin)
Two recent studies have shown good results in patients using glycyrrhizinic acid to improve dermatitis.
In one study, 2 percent glycyrrhizinic acid gel significantly decreased erythema, edema and itching. A second study found that licochalcone A provided a potent anti-inflammatory action on a variety of skin cells that are responsible for skin irritation.
Oatmeal
Colloidal oatmeal is known to reduce dry skin through its moisturizing qualities and it also serves as a protectant.
The proteins and polysaccharides attach to the skin to provide a protective shield, while proteins build a barrier against acids and bases.
Chamomile (Matricaria recutita and Chamaemelum nobile)
The active constituents of chamomile — terpenoids and flavonoids — have been confirmed in studies to have anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
Camphor oil (Cinnamonum camphora)
Camphor oil has recently been evaluated for its effectiveness in treating demodicoses that often occur with rosacea.
Patients should be warned that camphor oil can irritate the skin.
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree oil has grown more popular as an antimicrobial agent because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Use caution with tea tree oil however, due to its link to several side effects including allergic contact dermatitis, systemic contact dermatitis, erythema and systemic hypersensitivity reactions, which can worsen rosacea.
MimyX
It's a topical, nonsteroidal prescription cream approved for topical dermatitis.
It is an olive oil-based product and its efficacy is based on repairing and restoring the skin's barrier function. Doctors know that in some patients with rosacea, their barrier function is altered, Dr. Wu says.
Synergy of herbs, prescriptions
"While the use of medicinal herbs is increasing, it's important to remember that several variables can impact the composition, concentration and bioavailability of the herbal composite," Dr. Wu says.
"Nonetheless, many people may still get good relief from herbal remedies. In addition, prescription medications can work nicely with herbal treatments to give the patient even better results and maintain them for the longest possible time."
Dermatologists need to ask their patients about their use of all medications including herbs, vitamins and supplements, according to Dr. Wu.
"I suggest taking an extra five or 10 minutes to find out what your patients are using on their skin in addition to what you're prescribing for them."
Dr. Wu says that more research in the future will help patients with rosacea. She is planning clinical studies on skincare products containing herbal and botanical ingredients, as well as research on the affects of acupuncture and peripheral blood flow as it relates to rosacea.

Disclosure: Dr. Wu is on the Medical Advisory Board for Johnson and Johnson Consumer products and is Founder and President of Dr. Jessica Wu Cosmeceuticals.

November is National Healthy Skin Month

2006-11-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

Chicago dermatologist, Omeed Memar, M.D., Ph.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Northwestern University and medical director at the Academic Dermatology & Skin Cancer Institute, 30 N. Michigan Avenue, offers good skin care tips in recognition of November’s designation as “National Healthy Skin Month.” Your skin is your body`s first defense against disease and infection, and protects internal organs from injuries. The largest organ in the body, skin helps regulate body temperature, prevents excess fluid loss, and it helps your body remove excess water and salt. There are a number of ways to keep your skin healthy, and many options available to treat skin problems. Consult a dermatologist if you feel skin treatment is necessary.

Some of the more common skin conditions and tips include:
1. Dry skin in the winter months. Lower air temperatures and humidity combined with forced hot-air heat can cause dryness. To help combat this drying, Dr. Memar recommends:
(a) no hot showers or baths;
(b) use of mild soaps, and
(c) moisturizing your skin immediately after a shower or bath.

2. Acne. Small lesions, blackheads, and whiteheads can be controlled by
(a) gently washing the affective area(s) with warm water and a mild soap twice a day to remove dead skin cells and excess oil, and
(b) using a topical (applied to the skin) over-the-counter acne treatment containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

3. Premature aging. Some signs of aging that appear on the skin indicate more than advancing years; they warn of an underlying medical condition. Changes that occur as we age also make us more susceptible to skin conditions, such as shingles and skin cancer. If you spot any of these changes, make an appointment to see a dermatologist. With early detection, many of these conditions are easily treated. If allowed to progress, some conditions can be difficult to control. Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can be deadly without early treatment. In the United States alone, one person dies from melanoma about every 68 minutes.

4. Eczema. When it comes to treating atopic dermatitis, dermatologists consider moisturizing and gentle cleansing to be indispensable. Yet, a recent survey revealed that 23% of adults living with atopic dermatitis say they do not do not apply moisturizer and 29% do not use a cleanser. The researchers also found that most of the people who participated in the survey wanted more information about moisturizers and cleansers.

5. Skin Cancer. The facts say it all:
(a) More than 1 million new cases of skin cancer will be diagnosed in the United States this year, (b) both basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma have a better than 95 percent five-year cure rate if detected and treated early,
(c) 1 in 5 Americans will develop some form of skin cancer during their lifetime, and
(d) five or more sunburns double your risk of developing skin cancer.

6. Rosacea. An estimated 14 million people in the United States have this common skin condition. However, many are unaware that they have rosacea. Most people develop only a few of the signs and symptoms of rosacea, which include:
(a) a tendency to blush or flush easily, redness may eventually last longer than 10 minutes;
(b) persistent redness in the center of the face that may gradually affect the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose;
(c) Dryness on the face. If you have any of these signs or symptoms, be sure to see a dermatologist.
Repeatedly applying a topical steroid — the medication that many people use to calm red, swollen, or itchy skin — often aggravates rosacea.

Mineral Makeup As A Rosacea Coverup

2006-10-31T09:59:00.000-08:00

Rosacea Skin Care – cosmetic cover-ups are not rosacea treatments but sometimes hides a little rosacea redness. Mineral Make ups, although slightly more expensive offer an excellent alternative to rosacea sufferers. Mineral makeup is as pure as it gets -- void of talc, chemical additives, fragrance, fillers, preservatives and dyes, it’s an excellent choice for rosacea skin care.

Growing from a need for cosmetics gentle enough to use on skin after chemical peels or resurfacing treatments, mineral makeup is made from finely crushed, high pigment minerals. It has virtually no allergy risk and will not clog pores or irritate sensitivities. And because minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are used as the base, these cosmetics are loaded with natural UV protection. "The beauty of mineral makeup is that it can be used by all ages and all skin types,"explains Kathy Krakora. The light-reflective properties of the mineral powders actually draw attention away from fine lines. Zinc oxide, one of the base minerals, is anti-inflammatory, which means it calms the skin down. So it's perfect for people with blemishes, rosacea, oily skin, dry skin or for immediate post-treatment use." And because it is talc-free, mineral makeup actually holds in moisture, keeping sKin hydrated and averting wrinkles. A little goes a long way All makeup is not created equally and because mineral makeup is in such a pure form, there's no need to use as much of it as regular makeup. "Three words," Krakora says, "Less is more."

Tips for flawless application:
1)To avoid a streaky or blotchy appearance, allow your moisturizer to completely absorb before applying mineral foundation powder. If necessary, apply a thin layer of mineral rice powder first to absorb any extra moisturizer.
2) When applying cream or liquid foundation, most of us start with a lot and then blend most of it off. With mineral makeup, the minerals are pure, concentrated pigment. Using downward strokes, start with a light dusting and add layers until you achieve the desired coverage.
3) For a dewy look, create a tinted moisturizer by mixing a bit of powder foundation in the palm of your hand with your favorite moisturizer. Apply evenly as you would a moisturizer.
4) Apply mineral eye shadows dry for a soft, airbrushed effect. For a more intense and longer-wearing look, dip a wetted brush into the powder and then sweep it across the lids. The wet look is also good for events like weddings and chick flicks because it's crease and tear proof.
5) Because mineral blush contains no synthetic dyes, use it on eyes and lips for a dash of sheer color.
6) Finally, invest in good makeup brushes. As with applying any cosmetics, quality brushes make all the difference.

Some popular mineral makeups include: Jane Iredale, Bel'Image Skin Care & Make-Up, Scosh Mineral Makeup, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, Mineral Secrets.

Rosacea can be greatly improved by rosacea Lifesyles chnages.

Is Alternative Medicine An Effective Rosacea Treatment?

2006-10-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ignoring the failures of alternative medicine
The U.S. spends millions testing popular supplements. It's a futile effort.
Call it swimming against the tide of alternative medicine. It is a futile effort costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars a year.
Last week’s study showing that the widely touted and sold supplement DHEA does nothing to slow the effects of aging was only the latest major piece of research with powerfully negative results from the National Institutes of Health Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine. Previous placebo-controlled trials proved the uselessness of St. John’s Wort for depression and saw palmetto for enlarged prostates, shark cartilage for cancer, echinacea for the common cold and glucosamine plus chondroitin sulphate for arthritis.
But it doesn’t matter much — few seem to care.
The NIH launched its office of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in 1991 in response to the public’s huge interest in finding ways around mainstream medicine. At first, those heading the effort brought dubious credentials. Much of the research ranged from mediocre (meaningless animal studies) to laughable (passing magnets over sore knees).
But, in 1999, with the name changed to the National Center for CAM, Dr. Stephen E. Straus took over. Straus, who spent much of his career at the National Institute on Allergy and Infectious Diseases, enjoys a reputation as an accomplished scientist. In his time as director, the Center for CAM has spent much of its $122 million annual budget on clinical trials putting most popular alternative treatments to the same rigorous tests as those required of pharmaceuticals and medical devices before approval by the Food and Drug Administration.
Except for acupuncture, already proven effective in China, almost all the research has come to the same conclusion: the stuff doesn’t work.
The powerful industry that sells these products ignores the results and often finds allies who believe in them because of an anecdote or advertisement.
After the chondroitin results appeared, Jane Brody, the longtime health columnist for the New York Times who has always prided herself in offering advice based on scientific research, wrote that she would continue taking chondroitin for her knee pain because “it transformed my 11-year-old spaniel from an arthritic wreck into a companion with puppylike agility, giving him nearly six more active years."
CAM means many things — often just the search for care beyond the 12-minute visit to a harried physician. Some treatments under the alternative medicine heading, like massage, clearly do no harm and could make anyone feel better. CAM can offer a vehicle for a sick person simply to spend time with someone attentive to their symptoms.
As long as it doesn't kill anyoneSo-called “dietary supplements,” such as DHEA, saw palmetto and chondroitin, present the biggest problem.
Marketers often sell them under the guise of a mom-and-pop alternative to big pharma. Yet the $29 billion-a-year dietary supplement industry wields such power that it got Congress to pass a law in 1994 that basically frees it to peddle almost anything that doesn’t kill people with claims of medical benefit that need not be proven.
No doubt some of the thousands of products sold as dietary supplements work well, but the industry that sells them has neither motivation nor desire to know which ones work and which don’t.
Neither do many of those who advocate their use, such as the guru of alternative medicine Dr. Andrew Weil.
On his Web site someone recently inquired if a supplement called NT was useful for fatigue. “I'm not convinced by the scant literature on the subject that there's anything to recommend taking NT Factor for fatigue,” Dr. Weil replied, in a surprisingly forthright response.
But, then he added that the fatigue sufferer might want to try “Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), coenzyme Q10, the Ayurvedic herb ashwaganda or cordyceps, a traditional Chinese medicinal mushroom that may help fight fatigue and boost energy levels.”
I can find no evidence that any of these relieve fatigue any better than NT.
It gets better.
Dr. Weill concluded his answer by advising that a better-studied treatment might be something called Juvenon. At the bottom of the Web page appeared an ad from the manufacturer of Juvenon with the quote “I take Juvenon every day — Dr. Andrew Weil.”
Such crass commercialism would put most big drug companies to shame.
Dr. Weill has claimed he approaches medicine with a new way of thinking. But, in the end, no matter what the hype, either something is effective or it isn’t. If no one really cares, maybe we should stop spending millions to find the answer.

By Robert Bazell
Chief science and health correspondent
NBC News

Avoid the Possible Harmful Reactions To Rosacea Medications

2006-10-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

Treating rosacea naturally without the use of chemicals may reduce the unwanted side effects and drug interactions resulting from the use of many prescribed rosacea treatments. One such natural treatment is Rosacea-Ltd, which has been marketed internationally since 1997.

Drug reactions send 700,000 yearly to ER
By LINDSEY TANNER AP Medical Writer © 2006 The Associated Press

CHICAGO — Harmful reactions to some of the most widely used medicines _ from insulin to a common antibiotic _ sent more than 700,000 Americans to emergency rooms each year, landmark government research shows.
Accidental overdoses and allergic reactions to prescription drugs were the most frequent cause of serious illnesses, according to the study, the first to reveal the nationwide scope of the problem. People over 65 faced the greatest risks.
"This is an important study because it reinforces the really substantial risks that there are in everyday use of drugs," said patient safety specialist Bruce Lambert, a professor at the University of Illinois at Chicago's college of pharmacy.
Even so, the study authors and other experts agreed that the 700,000 estimate was conservative because bad drug reactions are likely often misdiagnosed.
The study found that a small group of pharmaceutical warhorses were most commonly implicated, including insulin for diabetes; warfarin for clotting problems; and amoxicillin, a penicillin-like antibiotic used for all kinds of infections.
"These are old drugs which are known to be extremely effective. We could not and would not want to live without them. But you've got to get the dose exactly right. Variations, especially on the high side, are really dangerous," Lambert said. He was not involved in the research.
Those aged 65 and older faced more than double the risk of requiring emergency room treatment and were nearly seven times more likely to be admitted to the hospital than younger patients.
The results, from 2004-05, represent the first two years of data from a national surveillance project on outpatient drug safety. The project was developed by the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The study was published in Wednesday's Journal of the American Medical Association.
The database included 63 nationally representative hospitals that reported 21,298 bad drug reactions among U.S. adults and children treated in emergency rooms during the two-year period. The tally is based on what emergency room doctors said were complications from using prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, dietary supplements or herbal treatments.
The researchers said it translates to 701,547 complications nationwide each year.
"Experts had thought that severe outpatient drug events were common, but no one really had good numbers" until now, said lead author Dr. Daniel Budnitz, a CDC researcher.
Complications included diabetics on insulin passing out from low-blood sugar, excessive bleeding in patients on warfarin, and severe skin rashes in patients taking amoxicillin. Drug reactions were severe enough to require hospitalization in about 17 percent of patients. The study did not include information on whether any of the reactions were fatal.
"The numbers are quite troubling," said Jim Conway, senior vice president at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. The tally underscores that "there is a tremendous number of consumers in the United States taking medication."
The CDC has estimated that about 130 million Americans use prescribed medication every month. U.S. consumers buy far more medicine per person than anywhere else in the world.
Yet a recent study found that doctors' conversations with patients when prescribing new drugs aren't very thorough and that side effects often aren't mentioned. Many of the drugs implicated in the new study require frequent physician monitoring to make sure the dose is correct.
The new findings highlight the need for better doctor-patient communication about use of medicines, Conway said.
The number likely underestimates the number of people who have bad drug reactions outside a hospital setting because many don't get ER treatment, while others who do may have symptoms that are mistakenly attributed to something else, said patient safety expert Dr. David Bates, a professor at Harvard Medical School.
Still, Bates called the effort a significant contribution since previous reports on the problem have not been national in scope.
___

Treating Rosacea With The Techniques of Sobye's Massage

2006-10-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

From The Rosacea-Ltd Web Site, interesting indormation about the use of Sobye's Massage for the treatment of rosacea.
And for all rosacea sufferers, the well established Sobye's Massage or 'non surgical face lift' is very useful as the face has many muscles which hold tension in many different ways for different purposes. If the muscles are not toned by exercise, the face will sag and portray an older look. Facial muscles don't all attach directly to bone like they do in the rest of the body. Instead, many of them attach under the skin. This allows you to contract your facial muscles in the smallest amount and make dozens of different kinds of faces as you have noticed in your past photos of the slightest 'time difference' in photo shots. If all the muscles are toned the face will have a natural 'face lift', the skin will be smoother and younger looking and the general appearance will be brighter and more pleasant. Frown lines are caused when we hold tension too long and too often; however when your face relaxes deeply the muscles relax giving the skin of the red rosacea face a chance to smooth out and allows the restricted blood to 'flow out' resulting in a very useful function for the rosacea sufferer.
The rosacea sufferer very often thinks of redness and blood flow and would love to have normal skin as your face is on display to the world and is an indication of your level of health, happiness, and vitality. The past has been problematic as the facial artery supplies blood to the face through a network of curves, angles across the cheeks, around the mouth, lips, tongue, and along the nose, around the eyes, and across the forehead. As the various facial areas have many functions to perform as we talk, eat, laugh, cry, blink, sneeze, or do any of the other subconscious functions as the smallest movement can turn a smile into a frown. You can raise your eyebrow to look surprised or wiggle your nose. So as you can imagine, the network of blood supply is not an easy "in and out" straight plumbing supply. It is further compounded when we 'freeze' or hold steady without the other functions such as watching a computer screen for a long period of time or perform some other function for a long period of time such as being tense in a court room or awaiting some important event in that we become 'stonefaced' with little muscle function which makes for a more difficult supply of blood to the facial muscles and skin areas. The facial artery is supplied blood from a branch of the external carotid artery along the neck area that most of us are very familiar with as this is also the brain blood supply. A few people have rosacea of the neck area also in addition to the facial skin area. We do not think you really wish to kill these arteries as some people do with various laser or light treatments.
However, the return of blood from the face is through the anterior facial vein which takes a more "straight course" through the face and is separated from the facial arteries by a large space so that we do not see the "blue veins" usually in a persons face as they are located deeper below the skin surface. The nose capillaries become sometimes become "arteries" and appear blue or purple. However, but are really extremely aggravated arteries that are old and extremely weaken and worn and not 'blue veins' of the return blood supply.
The mechanism of action is the accelerated lymphatic drainage with reduction of redness shortly after the massage and futuristic days if the massages continue. Their use of the massage for lymphatic drainage with the cleansing of the face which is a two fold purpose. The reasons for recommendation the Soybe Massage is 1) to massage the skin for better lymphatic drainage to reduce the redness and 2) to aid in reducing the acne component of those sufferers with acne as 82 % of rosacea sufferers have acne pimples in addition to rosacea redness and rosacea papules. See the British Journal of Dermatology for reducing oedemas or swelling of the facial area due to abnormal and excessive fluid accumulation within the facial tissue
The Sobye massage is accomplished in three different ways as follows: 1) is to awaken the skin in the morning or upon arising by "rotating the fingertips on the skin" by holding the finger tips in one place and moving the hand for 10 to 15 seconds or more depending on the person's tolerance, 2) exercising the facial muscles by making many different facial expressions or exercises or contortions of "smiling, frowning, moving the facial muscles UP and DOWN and Left and RIGHT and a variety of exercises that you can can choose from as to your personal choice and to those that could be watching you, and 3) the use of a washcloth and soap which additionally cleans the skin as 82% of rosacea sufferers have both rosacea and acne. The result is to relax all the muscles of your face while encouraging better circulation into the skin of the face and for proper exiting through the veins. Thinking of positive things and smiling is relaxing and moves the brain out of the sympathetic nervous system mode of "flight or flight".

Alkaline Water For The Treatment Of Rosacea

2006-10-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

Overall, a simple and easy method for better management of Rosacea is to drink plenty of pure filtered, Alkaline water.

According to http://www.drlam.com/A3R_brief_in_doc_format/2002-No5-Water.cfm

The Best: Pure Filtered WaterSecond Best: Bottled WaterUse Sparingly: Distilled WaterAvoid: Tap WaterIt actually says the best is water that has been filtered through a reverseosmosis system. Pricey but.

Purpose and Why?
The information below suggests that if you're serious about your water intake,you might also want to consider the type of water you are consuming in order tohelp reduce the severity of your rosacea, As some bottled waters can actually beacidic.

Adequate water intake prevents dehydration, cleans out the body, and promoteshealing processes. It is recommended to drink around 8, 8 ounce glasses of watera day, depending on your body size (roughly 2.4 ltires a day!)

The rosacea LTD site claims that"most bottled water is acid and is not good for the body or rosacea"(http://www.rosacea-ltd-lifestyles.com/)
and also“Drink at least 10 eight ounce glasses of water per day if you are a smaller person! Approximately 85% of rosacea sufferers are very dehydrated. Considerably more is needed if one is larger, working outside, playing a sport, or doing something else physically taxing. Since heat causes vascular dilation (flushing) in most people, the rosacea sufferer needs even more water. Those with undesirable skin conditions should consume between 10 and 12 glasses (3 liters) of icy water per day to cool the face and body and to assist the body in proper excretion of oil, waste, and toxins.”

Contaminants in Bottled Water
This website http://www.nrdc.org/water/drinking/nbw.asp claims that "After testing more than 1,000 bottles of water, NRDC found that 33% were contaminated".These included bacterial contaminants, synthetic organic chemicals including industrial solvents, and inorganic contaminants such as arsenic. The full report also mentions carcinogens from plastic leaching.

Diseases and High Acidity Levels
I found this page (http://www.betterwayhealth.com/bottled-water.asp) from a terminal Cancer survivor who strongly recommended the use of Ionised alkaline water to improve your health.
It gave an example of an unhealthy system, i.e a body with cancer. "5.5 pH isthe pH range of most cancer patients' cells".High acidity levels in the body are linked to numerous diseases. A prime example is Cardio Vascular disease (http://www.phbalancingdiet.com/)
Drinking enough pure filtered alkaline water could help balance your bodies PH levels and provide an environment that does not support bacteria and is beneficial for you skin cells.

American Acne And Rosacea Society

2006-09-27T09:37:00.000-07:00

A dedicated, varied group of dermatologists met recently at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting with a singular focus: elevating the understanding and treatment of acne and rosacea.
Gathering for the first time, members of the newly established American Acne & Rosacea Society (AARS) met to discuss the group’s goals and objectives and to hear an entertaining keynote address from renowned dermatologist Albert Kligman, M.D., Ph.D.

Hiding Rosacea Redness

2006-09-22T10:02:00.000-07:00

Mineral Make ups, although slightly more expensive offer an excellent alternative to rosacea sufferers. Mineral makeup is as pure as it gets -- void of talc, chemical additives, fragrance, fillers, preservatives and dyes, it’s an excellent choice for rosacea skin care.

Growing from a need for cosmetics gentle enough to use on skin after chemical peels or resurfacing treatments, mineral makeup is made from finely crushed, high pigment minerals. It has virtually no allergy risk and will not clog pores or irritate sensitivities. And because minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are used as the base, these cosmetics are loaded with natural UV protection.

"The beauty of mineral makeup is that it can be used by all ages and all skin types,"explains Kathy Krakora. The light-reflective properties of the mineral powders actually draw attention away from fine lines.

Zinc oxide, one of the base minerals, is anti-inflammatory, which means it calms the skin down. So it's perfect for people with blemishes, rosacea, oily skin, dry skin or for immediate post-treatment use."

And because it is talc-free, mineral makeup actually holds in moisture, keeping sKin hydrated and averting wrinkles. A little goes a long way All makeup is not created equally and because mineral makeup is in such a pure form, there's no need to use as much of it as regular makeup. "Three words," Krakora says, "Less is more."

Tips for flawless application:

1)To avoid a streaky or blotchy appearance, allow your moisturizer to completely absorb before applying mineral foundation powder. If necessary, apply a thin layer of mineral rice powder first to absorb any extra moisturizer.

2) When applying cream or liquid foundation, most of us start with a lot and then blend most of it off. With mineral makeup, the minerals are pure, concentrated pigment. Using downward strokes, start with a light dusting and add layers until you achieve the desired coverage.

3) For a dewy look, create a tinted moisturizer by mixing a bit of powder foundation in the palm of your hand with your favorite moisturizer. Apply evenly as you would a moisturizer.

4) Apply mineral eye shadows dry for a soft, airbrushed effect. For a more intense and longer-wearing look, dip a wetted brush into the powder and then sweep it across the lids. The wet look is also good for events like weddings and chick flicks because it's crease and tear proof.

5) Because mineral blush contains no synthetic dyes, use it on eyes and lips for a dash of sheer color.

6) Finally, invest in good makeup brushes. As with applying any cosmetics, quality brushes make all the difference. Some popular mineral makeups include: Jane Iredale, Bel'Image Skin Care & Make-Up, Scosh Mineral Makeup, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, Mineral Secrets. Rosacea can be greatly improved by rosacea lifesyles changes.

A Rosacean Defends His Integrity

2006-09-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

Hello

Sorry this is long but I wanted to put something up as a reply to recent comments and accusations made about me by Nase on an update on his website called "New Forum needed to ensure accurate information". I hope you have the time to read this and the Nase quotes are in bold italic.

"There is a lot of confusion regarding my position with Dr. Darm. This is mainly due to second hand contorted information propagated by Peter Waters and Twinkie Purple (detailed below). They purposefully take isolated segments from a site that is based on a non-existent court case"

Assuming he is referring to the DB site then he has provided most of the material on there directly himself. Can’t see any confusion about his position with Dr Darm as it looked a clear case of making money out of innocent rosacea sufferers. He probably has or has had in the past similar contracts with other professionals or companies. The court case(s) were real.

"Warren's Rosacea Group has several Red Light Therapy Salesman who make commision off of referrals and "home made devices". This is a fact that is denied vehemently by several people. The main salesman, Peter Waters has been involved for almost 3 years. Fact."

Several Red Light Therapy Salesmen? Apart from accusing me then who are the others? Where does the commission from home made devices come from? Thinking about it the manufacturers would probably pay you money NOT to show people for free (As David does) how to build cheaply LED units. FACT - I have used RLT since 1998 but never been involved in selling any device. Where is his proof? Of course I have given details of my lamp to people and contact details if they want to try it – who wouldn’t when trying to help others. See letter from Adrian Warburton in the thread: http://forum.rosaceagroup.org/viewtopic.php?t=4166

"He never had Rosacea. Fact. Feel free to check out his photos on the RS group and his description. He details this."

FACT - I have rosacea. Again where is his proof otherwise? I have suffered from this condition for 20 years now but it was only diagnosed in 1997 by Dr Shahrad at Harpenden Bupa Hospital. Confirmed by Dr Tony Chu when I saw him for treatment in July 1998 at Hammersmith Hospital, London. Rosacea obviously runs in our family on my Mother’s side we believe as my Sister suffers from it and also one of my cousins. My pictures on the RSG profile were put up as part of a picture sharing idea so people could put faces to names, not necessarily showing how severe their condition was although some had the courage to do this. If you look at them on http://rosacea.ii.net/profiles.html You will clearly see the narrative I put by each picture.

"Our discussions during sane times also suggested his skin condition was mostly acne. Period. He was NEVER diagnosed with Rosacea as per his own admission."

Has there ever been a sane time with Nase? We swapped a few e mails on red light a few years ago and he said he didn’t know much about it other than the lamps were designed for acne. I still have the mails. Basically he wasn’t interested despite me giving him all the information on it. When did I admit I was NEVER diagnosed with rosacea? News to me and yet another lie by him.

"But, where else is he going to sell a red light device. He cant sell the blue light as the market is already saturated for acne, but rosacea and red light therapy is open game to someone who never even had clinical rosacea."

As already stated I am not involved in selling anything. He is just making it all up as usual with no proof to back his claims. I HAVE CLINICAL ROSACEA as diagnosed by the professional dermatologist's mentioned above.

"I called 8 out of about 30 red light Internet sales sites. 8 out of 8 were accepting people to sell these systems for 10% to 15% commision."

Are there 30 red light Internet sales sites? You could also call 8 tyre companies or 8 of any other retail outlets and probably negotiate some form of commission if they were interested in you pushing their products. So what?

"Fact. Red light therapy is not approved for use on rosacea sufferers and DOES have the ability to burn skin (as Dr. Crouch found out when he had to treat two red light therapy burn patients who came to me first). For each person that has tried Red Light Therapy or LED Therapy and states, "It might be helping some" ................................. there are double the number who have returned the machines due to increased flushing, burning sensations and first degree burns (no blisters) and second degree burns (with blisters) with the higher energy LED systems now available and the homemade versions. You cannot change the quantity of light bulbs or LEDs without increasing the thermal energy."

TRUE - RLT is not currently medically approved for treating rosacea but there will be a clinical trial soon to investigate by a real PROFESSIONAL.

FALSE – LED does not have the ability to burn skin assuming the apparatus is used properly. What did Dr Crouch really find out? The notorious burn victims came to Nase first or Crouch first? Conflicting stories now which prove Nase made the whole story up.

Rubbish - it works and he can’t handle this fact. Typical Nase mumbo jumbo to give the impression he knows what he is talking about. Of course there is theory and practice although Nase theory is usually in language derived from another planet. Despite his claims we have never seen any evidence, reports or validated information that RLT harms the rosacea skin and that why he has to make the stories up. If the evidence was there it would have been thrown in our faces back in January when he posted his claims. Does he think we are all stupid?

Anyway how many people use RLT to treat rosacea? Well currently not that many although more are now giving it a go since they have realised his claims are false. When you read his various reports he tries to convey the story that hundreds of people are trying RLT, hundreds are getting badly burnt and hundreds are returning red light units whilst in the process I am becoming a millionaire from selling lamps. Total utter nonsense.

"Two of the biggest proponents of red light therapy (and I will just use their user names), IowaDavid and Banshee, have been using these systems for quite some time. We actually asked them to be on the Rosacea Research foundation and they both replied, "That they would love to, but were nearly disabled by rosacea and could not help". Direct quotes from emails to the entire Board of Directors. Obviously Red Light Therapy was not the answer and the multiple topical and oral prescriptions they are both taking confound any effect they say they might have."

FALSE – Banshee has once again been forced to put the record straight after Nase has again written falsely about her. David has also refuted Nases claims? Both Kristen (Banshee) and David have benefited from using RLT in their treatment regime as I did also. David has written a couple of articles about the subject and his results are very impressive.

"To the handful of people detailed above -- thank you for reinforcing my point about the lack of moderation on these boards, the repeated attempts for deceitful information and the need for accuracy on Support Boards. It also demonstrates why rosacea information and news has come to a standstill in many cases."

The only deceitful information I have and still see concerning rosacea comes from his actions past and present including his current website. I am sure it will all bear fruition once again to be used against him. Some people never learn.

Despite what he thinks rosacea information and news is still coming in and at least we know from our sources that it is reliable. What some people cannot yet grasp though is the amount of damage this man has done for many years within the rosacea society by his arrogance, selfishness, bullying and the desire through whatever means to become the number one, the supremo, the main man, the poster boy of the rosacea world. All I can say is that it is a bloody good job that some people have had the courage to stand up to him and prevent this from happening. A line on a post on the Forum I saw recently by Sweden summed up what Nase has achieved perfectly. "How many physicians has the guy scared off who could have been contributing to the rosacea community? Face it, the guy has done a lot of harm no doubt about it. His breakthrough treatments never end up being anything..how could you have missed that extremely valid point?"

Ok I'm done. Thanks for listening and good luck in the future.

Peter

Topical Metronidazole

2006-09-11T10:52:00.000-07:00

Schmadel LK, McEvoy GK.
American Society of Hospital Pharmacists,
Bethesda, MD 20814.

The chemistry, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, and adverse effects of topically applied metronidazole are reviewed, and the drug's use and efficacy in the treatment of rosacea and other conditions are discussed. Metronidazole is a synthetic, nitroimidazole-derivative antibacterial and antiprotozoal agent which began and continues as a temporary vaginal infection medication. For topical use, metronidazole is available in the United States as an aqueous gel. Polar reduction products of the drug appear to be responsible for its antimicrobial effects, which include disruption of DNA. The mechanism by which metronidazole ameliorates the lesions and erythema of rosacea may be related to anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive actions of the drug rather than to suppression of skin bacteria. Metronidazole does not seem to be appreciably absorbed after topical application to the skin. Little is known about the distribution and elimination of topically applied metronidazole. Topical metronidazole has been designated an orphan drug by the FDA for the treatment of rosacea. In clinical studies metronidazole 0.75% topical gel or 1% cream resulted in improvement in inflammatory lesions in 68-96% of patients for several months. Like other currently available therapies, metronidazole is only palliative; when the drug is withdrawn, symptoms commonly recur. Topical metronidazole has been used with some success in the treatment of decubitus and other ulcers and in certain dental conditions. The drug seems to have low toxicity and generally is well tolerated when applied topically. The principal adverse effects are local reactions, such as burning and stinging. Topical metronidazole provides another option for the treatment of rosacea even though it is for a short few months at best.PMID: 2137747 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Rosacea Skin Care

2006-09-08T06:41:00.000-07:00

Prior to beginning any new rosacea treatment, one needs to prepare the rosacea sensitive skin, and allow the skin to heal from the effects of previous agressive rosacea treatments which may have left the skin damaged or overly sensitive. Many rosacea treatments leaves the rosacea sufferer's skin so sensitive that "even water hurts their rosacea affected skin".

Number One Source Of Rosacea Treatment Information

2006-09-05T11:04:00.000-07:00

The International Rosacea Foundation is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to make available easy readable rosacea symptom and rosacea treatment information on one web site. This information has been chosen from medical books, medical journal articles, and on the web and with available credits to those rosacea writers. Information provided by the International Rosacea Foundation about products, medical conditions, and symptoms, has been obtained from the manufacturer's prescription product information inserts and from their web sites sponsoring these products. Rosacea conditions and treatments may vary substantially from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored for each individual case. The secondary mission is to provide research for better medical products for rosacea sufferers.

How Safe Are Sunscreeens?

2006-09-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

Are sunscreens always beneficial, or can they be detrimental to users? A research team led by UC Riverside chemists reports that unless people out in the sun apply sunscreen often, the sunscreen itself can become harmful to the skin.
Two-photon fluorescence intensity images of cells deep in the epidermis showing reactive oxygen species activity following sunscreen application to the skin surface. Reactive oxygen species can react with cellular components, leading to skin damage and increasing the visible signs of aging. (Credit: K. Hanson, UC Riverside)
When skin is exposed to sunlight, ultraviolet radiation (UV) is absorbed by skin molecules that then can generate harmful compounds, called reactive oxygen species or ROS, which are highly reactive molecules that can cause "oxidative damage." For example, ROS can react with cellular components like cell walls, lipid membranes, mitochondria and DNA, leading to skin damage and increasing the visible signs of aging.
When sunscreen is applied on the skin, however, special molecules -- called UV filters -- contained in the sunscreen, cut down the amount of UV radiation that can penetrate the skin. Over time, though, these filters penetrate into the skin below the surface of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, leaving the body vulnerable to UV radiation.
Led by Kerry M. Hanson, a senior research scientist in the Department of Chemistry at UCR, the researchers report that three UV filters (octylmethoxycinnamate, benzophenone-3 and octocrylene), which are approved by the Food and Drug Administration and widely used in sunscreens, generate ROS in skin themselves when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, thus augmenting the ROS that is naturally produced. The researchers note that the additional ROS are generated only when the UV filters have penetrated into the skin and, at the same time, sunscreen has not been reapplied to prevent ultraviolet radiation from reaching these filters.
Study results will appear in an upcoming issue of Free Radical Biology & Medicine. An advance copy of the paper is available online on the journal's Website.
"Sunscreens do an excellent job protecting against sunburn when used correctly," said Hanson, who works in the laboratory of Christopher Bardeen, an assistant professor of chemistry at UCR. "This means using a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor and applying it uniformly on the skin. Our data show, however, that if coverage at the skin surface is low, the UV filters in sunscreens that have penetrated into the epidermis can potentially do more harm than good. More advanced sunscreens that ensure that the UV-filters stay on the skin surface are needed; such filters would reduce the level of UV-induced ROS. Another solution may be to mix the UV-filters with antioxidants since antioxidants have been shown to reduce UV-induced ROS levels in the skin."
In their research, Hanson and colleagues used epidermal model tissue and applied sunscreen to the surface to test the effect of sunscreen penetration on ROS levels in the deep epidermis. A two-photon fluorescence microscope allowed them to visualize ROS generation occurring below the skin surface. The ROS activity was detected using a probe molecule whose fluorescent properties change upon exposure to ROS. On comparing images taken before and after the skin was exposed to UV radiation, they found that ROS generation in the skin increased after sunscreen penetration.
About 95 percent of the visible signs of aging are associated with UV exposure. About 90 percent of a person's total life-time UV exposure is obtained before the person is 18 years of age. Only a few UV-filters are available that block "UV-A," the wavelengths that penetrate more deeply into the skin, all the way into the dermis where collagen exists.
"For now, the best advice is to use sunscreens and re-apply them often -- the Skin Cancer Foundation recommends every two hours, and especially after sweating or swimming, which can wash away sunscreen -- to reduce the amount of UV radiation from getting through to filters that have penetrated the skin," Bardeen said. "This, in turn, would reduce ROS generation."
Next, the researchers plan to investigate the effect of smog on ROS generation in the skin.

Besides Hanson and Bardeen, Enrico Gratton in the Laboratory for Fluorescence Dynamics, UC Irvine, collaborated on the study. The research was funded by grants from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health.

Solving Rosacea

2006-08-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

The first step in treating rosacea is lifestyle change. Though rosacea is genetic in nature, there are lots of "triggers" that make it worse. Avoid common triggers listed:

Sun exposure: Everyone should avoid too much sun, but people with rosacea are particularly sensitive. They should be sure to apply sun block to the face when going outdoors. But take care! Skin affected by rosacea is very sensitive to chemicals. Use a quality sun block that doesn't irritate the skin.

Stress: Flushing increases when you're under stress. Learn relaxation techniques such as deep breathing.

Alcohol: Alcohol doesn't cause rosacea, but it does dilate blood vessels in the face. That makes rosacea worse.

Spicy foods: Heavily spiced foods cause flushing and worsen rosacea.

Cosmetics: Makeup, cleansers, lotions, and even some moisturizers can irritate the skin. Use only products that are non-irritating, hypoallergenic, and noncomedogenic.

The traditional first-line medical treatment is antibiotics. Doctors usually start by prescribing topical metronidazole in cream or gel form. Other topical antibiotics may be used as well. Oral antibiotics also work. Doctors usually start with tetracycline or minocycline. The only problem with this is overuse of antibiotics can lead to super bugs that are resisitant to antibioitcs.

Other topical treatments include azelaic acid, retinoic acid, and even vitamin C preparations. These products can lead to increased facial redness and skin irritation for skin that is already sensitive and red.

In more advanced cases -- or if antibiotics don't do the job -- doctors often prescribe the acne treatments Accutane or Sotret. These can work very well. But they can cause birth defects, so women who take them must be prepared to use effective birth control. Accuatne can also result in higher cholesterol.

Doctors can use lasers, pulsed light, and other surgical devices to remove visible blood vessels and reduce redness. There are a lot of mixed reveiws about the effectiveness of laser and pulsed light.

A more natural alternative may be Rosacea-Ltd. Overall 98% of Rosacea-Ltd III users confirm that they have found an excellent improvement in two to three weeks in the beauty of their rosacea skin condition after stopping their previous rosacea treatment that have been too aggressive for the overly sensitive rosacea skin. Former rosacea sufferers see a calming of their facial rosacea redness, dilated facial rosacea vessels and rosacea papules (a small, red solid rosacea skin lesion without pus that is not acne) as well as acne and seborrheic dermatitis after stopping their previous rosacea skin treatment. Most other rosacea treatments of retnoids, steroids and laser treatments thin the skin to make the already problematic rosacea skin even more sensitive with more rosacea redness.

CollaGenics Releases Statement on Oral Rosacea Treatment

2006-08-07T12:13:00.000-07:00

The following announcement was issued by CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals:
FIRST ORAL DRUG FOR ROSACEACOLLAGENEX PHARMACEUTICALSINTRODUCES ORACEA™(doxycycline, USP) capsules 40 mg** 30 mg immediate release and 10 mg delayed release beads
July 13, 2006 — Newtown, PA — CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: CGPI) launches Oracea, a breakthrough new treatment for rosacea patients. Oracea (Or-RAY-sha) is the first orally administered, systemically delivered drug available to rosacea patients that has received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Approximately 14 million American women and men suffer from rosacea, a highly visible and difficult to conceal skin condition. In addition to the burden of coping with this disease, many also face the emotional burden that frequently accompanies it.
What Makes Oracea Different?Oracea provides an important series of firsts in the treatment of the papules and pustules (pimples and red bumps) of rosacea. Oracea is the:
First FDA-approved oral treatment
First effective oral alternative to the systemic antibiotics traditionally used to treat rosacea; Oracea offers anti-inflammatory action without demonstrated antimicrobial effects
First oral treatment with established long-term safety; Oracea was used daily for up to 9 months in clinical trials.
First oral treatment with a side effect profile similar to placebo; photosensitivity and vaginal candidiasis were not seen in clinical trials.
Making Life Easier for Rosacea Patients:“Many of the tolerability and safety concerns associated with traditional systemic antibiotic therapy are not an issue with Oracea,” explained Klaus Theobold, M.D. Ph.D, Chief Medical Officer for CollaGenex. “High dose oral antibiotics, although not approved by FDA for rosacea, are frequently used for this purpose. They have been associated with some unpleasant side effects such as gastrointestinal upset, vaginal yeast infections and photosensitivity, which may require discontinuation of treatment. In clinical trials with Oracea, the incidence of these side effects was comparable to placebo. In addition, Oracea does not change the bacterial resistance profile because it has no detectable effect on the bacterial flora of treated patients. Bacterial resistance is a major public health concern.” The once-a-day dosing of Oracea also makes it easier for a rosacea sufferer to be compliant with the therapy.
A New Way of Treating a Complex Skin DiseaseOracea represents a significant advance in the treatment of rosacea. According to the lead investigator for the clinical trials of the drug, James Q. Del Rosso, D.O., Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Dermatology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada, “Oracea provides therapeutic efficacy in rosacea through anti-inflammatory effects and is devoid of antibiotic activity. Therefore, even with long-term use, development of antibiotic resistance is not an issue. Many rosacea patients will benefit from a once-daily formulation of doxycycline that has been optimized to treat rosacea effectively and safely.”
Clinical Trials Confirm the Efficacy of OraceaOracea has been studied extensively in clinical trials. In two double-blinded, placebo-controlled Phase 3 clinical studies, patients were administered either Oracea or placebo once a day for 16 weeks. A total of 537 patients were enrolled in 28 centers across the U.S. Both studies achieved their primary endpoint by demonstrating a greater reduction in inflammatory lesion count from baseline for the Oracea-treated patients compared to the placebo controls. In the two studies, patients receiving Oracea experienced a 61% and 46% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions compared to 29% and 20%, respectively, in patients receiving placebo. The differences were clinically and statistically highly significant (p<0.001 in each study).

FDA Approval For Generic Rosacea Gel

2006-07-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

Israeli generic drug maker Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. on Tuesday said it received clearance from the Food and Drug Administration for its New Drug Application for metronidazole topical gel USP, 0.75 percent, or metronidazole gel.

The company said its metronidazole gel is a prescription product used to treat rosacea. The company said it is the bioequivalent to MetroGel Topical Gel, 0.75 percent, made by Galderma Laboratories LP.

The Pre-Rosacea Condition

2006-07-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

Dermatologists now recognize an early prelude to rosacea called pre-rosacea. Pre-rosacea is the earliest noticeable stage of rosacea. Signs of this early stage of rosacea include frequent episodes of flushing or redness of the face and/or neck that come and go. Things that can cause an episode are exposure to the sun, emotional stress, alcohol, spicy foods, exercise, cold wind, hot foods and beverages, and hot baths. Again, each person is different and what might affect one person's rosacea might not bother the next person with rosacea.

Management of Rosacea

2006-07-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

The skin of patients with rosacea is exquisitely sensitive to various dietary, environmental, and topical factors that initiate the facial erythema characteristic of this sensitive skin condition. This sensitivity is probably due to epidermal barrier dysfunction with resulting rosacea symptoms. Overall management of rosacea involves the avoidance of dietary and environmental triggers, concurrent with the use of treatments. The appropriate selection of over-the-counter and prescription skin care products is equally important. This article reviews the use of therapeutic skin cleansers, including the newest category of prescription antimicrobial cleansers, which can enhance the overall management of this inflammatory dermatologic disorder called roscea.

PMID: 15074346 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Optimum Rosacea Skin Care

2006-06-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Picture Of Rosacea

2006-06-26T11:31:00.000-07:00

A rosacea picture is very useful in helping one to understand a patient's skin problem. The chronic progressive skin disorder of rosacea can be tracked by a picture taken at various intervals of life. View a picture of a man with rosacea.

The Effects Of The Sun On Rosacea

2006-06-26T11:29:00.000-07:00

Sun exposure can cause the rosacea sufferer more facial redness and thermal heating of the body resulting in more intense flushing. Certain sun screen or cosmetic ingredients can also intensify rosacea flushing or allergic reactions on the facial skin.
Avoid the sun as much as possible. The sun does kill bacteria, but it also acts as an astringent to tighten, dry, and clog the skin pores. The sun directly affects 61 percent of all rosacea sufferers. Avoid extremely cold weather as well, so as not to freeze and clog pores. Moisturizing the face and body and staying in temperatures ranging from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. Sunscreen moisturizers are helpful year-round.
The sun causes skin cancer and irritates rosacea even when you use sun block with a SPF of 45. Your skin will look better if you avoid sun burning and tanning, and the resulting wrinkling.
Nonetheless, a small amount of sunshine is good for us. In the presence of full-spectrum light, human skin actually makes vitamin D, a vitamin necessary for maintaining strong bones and regulating calcium and phosphorus in the body. But humans do not need much sunshine to make enough vitamin D. Most people receive adequate exposure in the course of daily errands.
Some people want additional sun exposure. Rosacea sufferers must be careful of such exposure. If you sunbathe, cover your face entirely. When you go out, wear a hat!
Some sun screens can actually cause a sunburn photosensitivity reaction such as an itchy red breakout that can persist for several days. The two ingredients which seem to be the cause of this reaction are oxybenzone and methoxydibenzoyl methane. In a study published by the Australian Journal of Dermatology, 81 percent of the reactions suffered by photo sensitive individuals were caused by these two ingredients.
Certain medications can make those who take them more sensitive to the sun, causing a rash or unexpected severe sunburn. If you're taking such a medication, sunglasses are critical to prevent damage to your eyes, and to ward off ocular rosacea, a condition that is quite difficult to manage.
A myriad of compounds can make skin and eyes more vulnerable to the sun's rays, worsening rosacea redness. Many antibiotics prescribed for rosacea, birth control pills, blood pressure medicines, diabetes drugs and pain relievers can increase the likelihood that UV radiation will do damage.

Rosacea Causes Facial Discomfort In Some

2006-06-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Beyond the effects of rosacea on facial appearance, the disorder is also frequently associated with facial discomfort, according to a new survey by the National Rosacea Society.In the first comprehensive survey of rosacea and facial discomfort, 78 percent of 2,150 rosacea sufferers reported that they had experienced sensory effects as well as physical symptoms. The most common form of discomfort was burning, listed by 66 percent of the respondents, while 58 percent reported facial itching and 55 percent said they had experienced stinging. Less common types of discomfort included tingling (27 percent), prickling (23 percent), pressure sensitivity (19 percent) and aching (10 percent).The majority of patients -- 59 percent -- reported that their facial discomfort occurred at the same time as their physical symptoms, and more than 33 percent said they sometimes occurred at the same time.Although various forms of discomfort were associated with virtually all physical symptoms in various individuals, certain symptoms were more likely to trigger specific types of sensory reactions. Facial redness appeared to herald a full range of reactions, especially burning (67 percent), itching (59 percent) and stinging (57 percent). Visible blood vessels were associated with increased burning (70 percent) and stinging (62 percent), while bumps and pimples reportedly resulted in increased itching (63 percent) and pressure sensitivity (22 percent).Facial swelling was associated with increased pressure sensitivity (34 percent) and aching (21 percent), and ocular rosacea was linked with high rates of burning (70 percent), stinging (64 percent), itching (64 percent) and pressure sensitivity (23 percent).The good news is that 91 percent of the patients reported that medical therapy had improved their facial discomfort, and 89 percent also said that treatment had improved their physical symptoms.

Early Indicators Of Rosacea

2006-06-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

What at first may seem like an innocent blush or sunburn may ultimately foreshadow rosacea. April was designated Rosacea Awareness Month by the National Rosacea Society (NRS) to alert the public to the warning signs of this red-faced, acne-like condition that affects an estimated 14 million Americans.
"Rosacea is frustrating and baffling for so many people because its conspicuous signs and symptoms may not only come and go unexpectedly, but they can affect various individuals in ways few might imagine," said Dr. Richard Odom, professor of dermatology at the University of California - San Francisco. "Unfortunately, without treatment rosacea tends to become progressively worse -- and can have a substantial impact both physically and on people's emotional, social and professional lives."
In surveys by the National Rosacea Society, nearly 70 percent of rosacea patients said this condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41 percent reported it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Among rosacea patients with severe symptoms, nearly 70 percent said the disorder had adversely affected their professional interactions, and nearly 30 percent said they had even missed work because of their condition.
Rosacea usually first strikes between the ages of 30 and 60.1 For many people, it starts innocently enough, resembling a sunburn or an inexplicable blush. Suddenly, without warning, a flush comes to their cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Then just when they start to feel concerned, the redness disappears.
Unfortunately, it happens again and again, becoming ruddier and lasting longer each time -- and eventually, visible blood vessels may appear. Without treatment, bumps and pimples often develop, growing more extensive over time, and burning, itching and stinging are common. In severe cases, especially in men, the nose may become enlarged from the development of excess tissue. This is the condition that gave comedian W.C. Fields his trademark red, bulbous nose.
In some rosacea sufferers, the eyes may also be affected, a condition known as ocular rosacea. An eye affected by rosacea may appear watery or bloodshot, and patients may experience eye irritation, burning, stinging, itching, dryness or even light sensitivity.
"The good news is that, while rosacea cannot be cured, it can be effectively controlled with medical therapy and lifestyle changes," Dr. Odom said. Individuals with any of the following warning signs of rosacea are urged to see a dermatologist or other physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment:
Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
Small visible blood vessels on the face
Bumps or pimples on the face
Watery or irritated eyes

Associated Reference
Powell FC. Rosacea. New England Journal of Medicine. 2005;352:793-803.

Symptoms Of Rosacea

2006-05-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea can vary substantially from one patient to another, and may include various combinations of signs and symptoms. These symptoms of rosacea include facial redness or flushing; Telangiectasis also known as damaged or dilated facial blood vessels or spider veins; papules also described as a solid raised bump that may open when scratched, becoming crusty and infected; pustules which is a dome-shaped, fragile lesion containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria; skin sensitivity; a lumpy or orange-peel texture to the skin; facial swelling; burning sensations on the skin; ocular rosacea, often described as a red, irritated, gritty feeling in the eyes, the eyes may also have a swollen, watery appearance; the last symptom of rosacea is rhinopyma or nasal bumps that may produce a swollen misshapen appearance to the nose.Studies suggest that eye (ocular) symptoms may occur in over half of rosacea patients, and 12 to 20 percent of ocular rosacea patients reported they developed their eye symptoms before developing any facial rosacea symptoms. On the other hand, facial redness is one of the most common symptoms of rosacea, and frequently appears before other signs and symptoms develop. Medical therapy can be tailored to control various signs and symptoms, and may also prevent rosacea from getting worse.

FDA Approval For Rosacea Treatment Oracea

2006-05-31T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Food and Drug Administration approved CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals Inc.'s rosacea treatment Monday.
The drug, called Oracea, is now the first FDA-approved, orally administered drug to treat rosacea.
"Oracea is the first of a series of dermatology products we have in development, and we are very pleased that our (new drug application) was approved by the FDA within 10 months of submission," said Colin Stewart, the company's president and CEO. "Over the past six months, we have built a first-rate specialty sales force to launch Oracea, and all of our representatives were fully trained and in their territories by the end of April. This is an extremely exciting time for CollaGenex, and we look forward to providing dermatologists and their patients with this exciting new therapy to treat rosacea."
Oracea contains doxycycline, the same active ingredient as CollaGenex's gum disease treatment Periostat. The company began focusing on its use in the dermatology market after getting reports from dentists that their patients taking the drug for their gums were surprised to find Periostat was also improving the condition of their skin.
CollaGenex shifted its focus to the dermatology market over the past two years following the approval of generic competition for Periostat.

Rosacea Sun Care and Treatment

2006-05-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

Effective skin care and rosacea treatment involves much more than treating the damage that has already occurred. Effective rosacea treatment and skin care also involves preventive rosacea skin care. The use of sun screens is just one of these preventive skin care measures.

Sunscreens are designed to protect against sunburn (UVB rays) and generally provide little protection against UVA rays. Sunscreens work by reacting chemically with the skin cells to protect them from the UVB rays of the sun. Unfortunately for those who suffer with rosacea, the ingredients in protective sunscreens can actually cause a sunburn-like photosensitive reaction. This reaction includes a rash or itchy red breakouts that can persist for days giving an appearance similar to rosacea. Studies by the Australian Journal of Dermatology indicate that 81% of the reactions caused by photosensitive persons were caused by two primary ingredients- oxybenzone and butyl methoxydibenzoyl methane.

Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals such as benzophenone or oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) as the active ingredient. They prevent sunburn by absorbing the ultraviolet (UVB) rays. Most chemical sunscreens contain from 2 to 5% of benzophenone or its derivatives (oxybenzone, benzophenone-3) as their active ingredient. Benzophenone is one of the most powerful free radicals generally known to science. It is used in industrial processes to initiate chemical reactions and promote cross-linking. Benzophenone is activated by ultraviolet light. The absorbed energy breaks benzophenone's double bond to produce two free radical sites. This explains why most chemical sunscreens cause various degrees of redness and sensitivity to rosacea sufferers.

Symptoms That Mimic Rosacea

2006-05-22T10:24:00.000-07:00

The many symptoms that mimic rosacea and the many skin conditions with symptoms similar to rosacea can make the diagnosis of rosacea difficult. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh or aggressive leading to the onset of rosacea or acne rosacea. Aggressive acne treatments to reduce oiliness of the skin can result in the flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis. The butterfly rash of lupus can also lead to a mis-diagnosis of rosacea. Learning the difference between the symptoms of rosacea, eczema, acne, lupus and psoriasis is necessary to understanding your skin condition. It is possible for these skin conditions to co-exist making successful rosacea treatment a very difficult endeavor. Treating rosacea or other skin conditions need not involve an endless round of laser treatments and antibiotics, it can be as simple as modifying your lifestyle to include positive rosacea health and skin care habits. The treatment of rosacea or any skin condition must involve treatment of the whole body.

Ingredients May Aggravate Rosacea

2006-05-15T11:29:00.000-07:00

A survey of 1,023 rosacea patients by the National Rosacea Society identified types of skin-care products and ingredients that commonly pose problems for rosacea sufferers.
For women, the biggest culprits were astringents/toners (49.5 percent), soap (40 percent), exfoliant agents (34 percent), makeup (29 percent), perfume/cologne (27 percent), moisturizer (25.5 percent) and hairsprays (20 percent). For men, over 24 percent said flare-ups had been caused by shaving lotion; nearly 24 percent were sensitive to soap; 19 percent were affected by perfume/cologne; and sunscreen aggravated 13 percent.
Topping the list as the most irritating ingredient was alcohol, affecting 66 percent of all respondents. Other frequently aggravating ingredients included witch hazel (30 percent), fragrance (29.5 percent), menthol (21 percent), peppermint (14 percent) and eucalyptus oil (13 percent).
Despite the variety of skin-care products that may aggravate rosacea, 78 percent of the women and 56 percent of the men said they are now using effective skin-care products that do not irritate their condition.

Things To Know When Considering Laser

2006-05-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Once strictly industrial tools, lasers have transformed some areas of medicine, such as dermatology. There are dozens of different types, from cold, or so-called low-level, lasers, to sophisticated, high-powered devices. Others use radio waves, heat or pulses of intense light. The energy and light work at the cellular level of the skin, changing pigment and other skin imperfections.

Possible uses:
Skin rejuvenation; cellulite removal; hair, birthmark and tattoo removal; and improvement of acne and acne scarring, age and sun spots, skin irregularities, loose skin, and facial and leg veins.

Who does the procedure:
A doctor does not have to do the treatment, but be sure that whoever is performing it is properly trained and supervised. Talk to the medical director at the center you choose about how he or she ensures safe, high-quality work.

Where it is done:
Procedures are mostly done at doctor's offices and other medical centers.What it feels like: Usually not painful, the devices may be so bright that the intensity may be initially unsettling. It may feel as if someone snapped a rubber band against your skin.

Is it safe?
Yes, though there may be redness afterward. Some machines automatically shut off to protect patients if the devices get too hot, or have a cooling spray that minimizes side effects.

Know before you go
Considering a minimally invasive laser or related procedure?
Here are some important tips:
Play it safe:
The American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery recommends that a person have performed at least 10 procedures under the direct supervision of a specialist to assess his or her competency, before being able to do it alone. (For other safety tips, go to www.aslms.org/public/ patientsafetytips.html.)
Get answers:
Is the staff comfortable answering your questions? If not, go elsewhere. If they won't talk before a procedure, imagine how much they may dodge your questions if you are unhappy.
Ask to see follow-up pictures taken more than a year after a procedure. Pictures taken immediately afterward may not give accurate results.
Request a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Tell the doctor about any health issues you have, including a history of scarring.

Treating Rosacea

2006-05-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

It is said that the eyes are the windows to the soul, but when it comes to health, your face can tell the true story. We all know that tiredness can dull skin tone and that stress may bring out spots, but the same cause-and-effect relationship can be seen for more serious health concerns.
The balance required for healthy skin is so delicate that a problem elsewhere in the body is often likely to affect your complexion.

So, when you visit your GP with an unspecified grumble, he or she may well have an idea about what's wrong before you've even removed your coat.
These signs in themselves are not proof of any medical condition and would never be sufficient for a conclusive diagnosis, but your skin can and does give off warning signs that more investigation may be required.
But how much do you know about what your skin is saying? What do spots on your chin indicate, and why won't that dry patch disappear? We consulted the experts to find out.

ROSACEA may begin as a simple tendency to flush or blush easily, then progress to a persistent redness in the central portion of your face. Your skin may become overly sensitive and these symptoms are sometimes accompanied by oily facial skin and dandruff on the scalp.
In addition, more than half the people who suffer from rosacea experience ocular rosacea, a burning and gritty sensation in the eyes. Rosacea may cause the inner skin of the eyelids to become inflamed or appear scaly, a condition known as conjunctivitis.
Research has not yet shown what causes rosacea - some health professionals believe it to be a blood-vessel disorder, and others that it is a bacterial infection.
Contrary to myth, alcohol does not cause rosacea. While the consumption of alcohol can lead to flushing of the skin and may make rosacea appear worse, there is no link. "A rash in this area could be rosacea, or may indicate a condition called lupus, where the body produces antibodies to its own cells," says Clayton. "Lupus is a serious problem causing arthritis, kidney and lung damage, so it is important to seek advice from your GP."

Stress Affects Rosacea

2006-05-09T10:56:00.000-07:00

Stres can activate a condition called rosacea, which causes red veins on the cheeks or around the nose. These are sometimes accompanied by a hot or burning sensation. "Stress triggers blood vessels to dilate - and in rosacea where the blood vessels are already overly large, this can cause an attack," explains dermatologist Dr Mervyn Patterson.
Apart from reducing stress - which goes for all the conditions here - avoiding alcohol and spicy foods, which also dilate blood vessels, can help reduce rosacea.

Lupus May Be Mistaken For Rosacea

2006-05-01T12:18:00.000-07:00

Lupus can sometimes be mistaken or misdiagnosed as rosacea.
The following eleven criteria for formal classification were established by the American College of Rheumatology. If at least four of the eleven criteria develop at one time, or individually over any period of observation, you may have lupus.
Malar rash - a redness or rash that may appear in a butterfly configuration across the nose and cheeks. It can appear on one or both sides of the face and is usually flat
Discoid rash - thick raised patches that can occur on any part of the body and may result in scarring
Sun-sensitivity - a reaction to sunlight that is more severe than just sunburn
Oral ulcers - frequent development of mouth or nose ulcers
Inflammation of joints - pain, tenderness or swelling in two or more joints
Inflammation of the lining of the lungs (pleurisy) or heart (pericarditis)
Kidney disorder - existence of excessive protein in the urine (proteinuria), or the existence of cellular casts in the urine. Casts are aggregates of cells, or cell remnants, stuck together which are normally found in the blood, or fragments of the tubules of the kidney itself
Nervous system disorder - seizures or psychotic behavior that cannot be attributed to drugs or metabolic dysfunction
Blood system disorder - changes in the blood which may include hemolytic anemia (red blood cells are coated with antibodies that cause them to break down and break apart); leukopenia (low white blood cell count); lymphopenia (decrease in the number of lymphocytes, the main cells of the immune system, in the blood); or thrombocytopenia (low number of platelets in the blood)
Immunologic disorder - the presence of the LE (lupus erythematosus) cell, a false positive reaction to the tests for syphilis, or the presence of antibodies (proteins that make up the cell’s membrane or covering)
A positive ANA - antibodies made against the nucleus of cells

Green Tea May Improve Symptoms Of Rosacea

2006-04-27T08:09:00.000-07:00

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis)
The green tea derivatives epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin-3-gallate, and epigallocatechin-3-gallate possess well-documented anticarcinogenic properties and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities. (15) These properties are especially useful for patients with rosacea as inherent sun sensitivity is a hallmark of the disease. The photoprotective properties of green tea may lessen reactivity to ultraviolet light, thereby reducing the signs and symptoms of rosacea. Moreover, green tea extract has been shown to reduce the disruption of the skin barrier often seen in patients with the disease.

In a small study 75% funded by Syed Skincare, patients with papulopustular rosacea treated with a cream containing 2% polyphenone (green tea extract) experienced a significant reduction in lesion count compared with patients applying vehicle cream.

Women randomized to the green tea extract cream had a 70% improvement in rosacea compared with women in the vehicle cream group, said Tanweer Syed, MD, PhD, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of California at San Francisco. Dr. Syed developed the polyphenone cream.

The cream not only has been shown to improve rosacea, but green tea extract also has natural anti-aging and anti-acne properties as well as a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50, Dr. Syed claimed. "The green tea has a soothing quality that helps the redness."The findings are from a small study. Larger studies with multiple investigators will be required to confirm the results.

Medicated Makeup for The Treatment of Rosacea

2006-04-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Carolina Pharmacy Systems, Inc. today announced the launch of Meds in Makeup, the innovative formulation of prescription medicine in makeup base for acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and other skin conditions.

Meds in Makeup is a custom-made prescription makeup that helps control and treat various skin conditions. Carolina Pharmacy Systems makes Meds in Makeup by blending the medicine chosen by a doctor with the makeup base chosen by the patient. Prescriptions are ordered through the Meds in Makeup Web site at http://www.medsinmakeup.com. The product is a customized treatment for acne, rosacea, eczema, psoriasis and other skin disorders.

"Meds in Makeup provides a completely new alternative for patients diagnosed with various skin conditions," said Gina Whittlesey, pharmacist and founder of Carolina Pharmacy Systems. "Meds in Makeup is a convenient way to conceal skin problems such as pimples, facial redness or irritation, while treating acne, rosacea or other skin conditions."

Each proactive acne or rosacea treatment is custom-made by licensed pharmacists using the practice of pharmaceutical compounding. Meds in Makeup provides people with prescription-treatable skin problems an alternative way to apply their treatment. This can improve patient compliance, particularly among teenagers who may want to wear makeup to hide their acne instead of using acne medication. Acne makeup such as Meds in Makeup can conceal acne while effectively treating it. Effective treatment is necessary because no product can completely get rid of acne.

Meds in Makeup also addresses the self-image issues of patients with skin conditions. Teen self-esteem may be improved when adolescents can hide acne with makeup while getting rid of pimples. Patients with rosacea, eczema and psoriasis can conceal redness and irritation as they treat it, which lessens the need to cover affected areas with clothing and can help boost self-esteem.

Rosacea-Ltd Treatment

2006-04-20T09:59:00.000-07:00

ROSACEA LTD III is not a magical potion, nor is it a permanent cure for rosacea (rosacea is a progressive skin disorder that can be placed into remission, or limited; thus the name Rosacea Ltd).
Rosacea Ltd is an extremely effective treatment system that significantly alleviates most of the symptoms associated with rosacea. Now in its nineth year of operations, the improved third version of Rosacea Ltd has been used by thousands of rosacea sufferers throughout the world who have benefited from the results of our patented rosacea formula.

The key to Rosacea Ltd III is simplicity. It delivers many well-known and well-documented anti-rosacea, anti-acne, and anti-seborrheic dermatitis ingredients directly to the skin, without the side effects that accompany most rosacea treatments.

Balancing Rosacea

2006-04-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

A surprising number and variety of physical problems, skin conditions and diseases can be caused by the problem of acid-producing foods. Today the vast majority of the populace in industrialized nations suffers from problems caused by the stress of acidification, because both modern lifestyle and diet promote acidification of the body's internal environment.

The current typical Western diet is largely composed of acidifying elements (proteins, cereals, sugars). Alkaline-producing foods such as vegetables are eaten in much smaller quantities. Stimulants like tobacco, coffee, tea, and alcohol are also extremely acidifying. Stress, and physical activity (both insufficient or excessive amounts) also cause acidification.

Many foods are alkaline-producing by nature, but manufactured processed foods are mostly acid-producing. It is important to balance each meal with 75% alkaline-producing to 25% acid-producing to maintain health. We need plenty of fresh fruits and particularly vegetables (alkaline-producing) to balance our necessary protein intake (acid-producing). And we need to avoid processed, sugary or simple-carbohydrate foods, not only because they are acid-producing but also because they raise blood sugar level too quickly (high glycemic index therefore fattening), are nutrient-lacking and may be toxic too.

pH (potential of hydrogen) is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. It is measured on a scale of 0 to 14 - the lower the pH the more acidic the solution, the higher the pH the more alkaline (or base) the solution. When a solution is neither acid nor alkaline it has a pH of 7 which is neutral.

Water is the most abundant compound in the human body, comprising 70% of the body. The body has an acid-alkaline (or acid-base) ratio called the pH which is a balance between positively charges ions (acid-forming) and negatively charged ions (alkaline-forming.) The body continually strives to balance pH. When this balance is compromised many problems can occur.

It is important to understand that we are not talking about stomach acid or the pH of the stomach. We are talking about the pH of the body's fluids and cellular tissues which is an entirely different matter.

Exercise May Trigger Rosacea

2006-04-17T12:03:00.000-07:00

Exercise is a common trigger for flushing in people with rosacea , but altering exercise regimens can reduce the effect.
Rosacea is a red-faced, acne-like facial condition affecting about 14 million Americans.According to the survey of almost 1,300 people with rosacea, more than 83 percent said exercise triggered or aggravated the signs and symptoms of their disorder.
However, 42 percent said they modified their exercise routines because of the skin condition, and nearly 9 out of 10 of those that did so said those changes reduced the effect of exercise on their rosacea.
"While exercise is important to a healthy lifestyle, people with rosacea should anticipate flare-ups of rosacea signs and symptoms, especially with strenuous activity or outdoor heat exposure," Dr. James Del Rosso, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Nevada Medical School.
"By doing simple things, such as working out in the early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler or in a cool indoor environment, rosacea sufferers may be able to reduce the intensity of flare-ups.
"Other ways to reduce or avoid flare-ups: exercising more often, but for shorter periods of time; running a fan or opening a window in order to keep cool indoors; and cooling off by drinking cold fluids or by keeping a damp towel around the neck.
The survey found that walking triggered rosacea in 36 percent of the respondents, followed by jogging or running (33.5 percent), aerobics (30.5 percent), weight lifting (16 percent), push-ups or sit-ups (15 percent), and bicycling or spinning (15 percent).
Along with exercise, other common triggers of rosacea flare-ups include hot weather, alcohol, sun exposure, emotional stress, humidity, indoor heat, spicy foods, heated beverages and irritating skin-care products.

Rosacea Control

2006-04-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

If you have persistent redness of the face and look like you're always blushing, you may have a condition known as rosacea. It typically affects people with fair skin, and typically doesn't occur before age 30.
The cause of rosacea, which affects some 14 million Americans, is unknown, and there is no cure. But the American Rosacea Society offers suggestions on how to reduce the red, acne-like appearance of the skin.
You should see your doctor to determine the best treatment for your condition. Initial treatments typically include an oral antibiotic, as well as topical creams and ointments to reduce redness.
A regular skin care regimen also is important. Wash your face using gentle, non-abrasive facial cleansers and lukewarm water. Don't use a washcloth or scrub your face roughly.
Wear sunscreen whenever you are outside, as exposure to the sun can irritate the condition. Cosmetics, including green-tinted foundation, can help reduce redness.

Seeing Through Ocular Rosacea

2006-04-10T10:42:00.000-07:00

Ocular Rosacea is an inflammatory eye condition often associated with acne rosacea. Ocular rosacea can cause a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. For others, ocular rosacea manifests itself as inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps, eyelashes that may fall out, compounded by bloodshot eyes. The ophthalmic signs of ocular rosacea can vary widely, including blepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, hypopyoniritis, and even keratitis.

The term ophthalmic or ocular rosacea covers all these signs. The most frequent signs, which may never progress to a more severe condition, are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts, quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which ocular rosacea is often confused. Pain and photophobia (abnormal sensitivity to light) may be present. The ocular complications are independent of the severity of facial rosacea.

It is reported that 50 to 60% of all rosacea sufferers also have some sort of symptoms with their eyes which is known as ocular rosacea. In one study it was found that ocular rosacea symptoms occurred in 58% of patients.

Sometimes (perhaps 20% of the time) ocular rosacea problems occur prior to the typical skin related rosacea symptoms though it is more usual (about 53% of the time) for the skin symptoms to appear first.

Ocular rosacea patients generally have chronically "bloodshot" eyes, dry eyes, and blepharitis (inflammation and debris of the eyelid margins). In severe ocular rosacea, there may be corneal ulceration (infection) which, if untreated, may even lead to perforation of the eye. This can be a potentially blinding complication.

April Is Rosacea Awareness Month

2006-04-06T10:31:00.000-07:00

During Rosacea Awareness Month in April, sponsored by the National Rosacea Society, patients are urged to learn more about effective treatment alternatives now available to help them cope with the serious side effects of this all-too common disorder.
Rosacea Awareness Month is designed to encourage those who may suffer from this widespread condition to seek diagnosis and treatment before it increasingly disrupts their daily lives. Rosacea is characterized by redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead; small visible blood vessels on the face; bumps or pimples on the face; and watery or irritated eyes. Activities such as spending time in the sun, eating spicy food or drinking alcohol can cause embarrassing flare-ups.

Gemini Laser Treats Rosacea With Green Light

2006-03-29T11:26:00.000-08:00

Millions of Americans have rosacea, a skin disorder in which frequent flushing in the center of the face can cause discomfort and embarrassment.
"When you are younger you think it's blushing, and you get in your 20s and it still looks good, and you get into your 40s and it gets darker, redder, until it's like a neon sign," said rosacea patient Janet.
Topical medications and antibiotics can help control the redness and breakouts caused by rosacea. But now, the latest in laser technology can literally zap away tiny blood vessels in minutes.
Janet's broken blood vessels were zapped away by the Gemini Laser -- a laser that uses green light to target blood vessels.
"The green light selectively heats hemoglobin which is in the blood," Scripps Clinic dermatologist Dr. Victor Ross.
"The blood becomes very hot and the blood vessel coagulates and closes off and once it closes off, it's gone for good," Ross added.
The light spares healthy skin from the heat.
"The wavelength is selectively heating the red vessels; the normal skin is relatively cool," Ross said.
Ross said he has seen amazing results when he uses the Gemini Laser treatment to treat rosacea patients.
"Typically, we will do about two or three sessions about four weeks apart and then have them come very six months for maintence," Ross said.
Janet said her chronic redness disappeared rapidly after her first treatment.
"All of a sudden I stopped using foundation makeup altogether," Janet said.
Janet's results were so profound, Ross said she may only need to have the laser treatment once a year to keep her rosacea at bay.
Treatments with the Gemini Laser range between $300 and $500. It is not covered by most insurance.
Roos said people with light skin will see the best results.
He also said rosacea patients may see longer-lasting results if they have a laser treatment and continue to use medications to control inflammation.

Exercise Is A Rosacea Trigger

2006-03-22T12:13:00.000-08:00

Exercise is a common trigger for flushing in people with rosacea , but altering exercise regimens can reduce the effect.

Rosacea is a red-faced, acne-like facial condition affecting about 14 million Americans.

According to the survey of almost 1,300 people with rosacea, more than 83 percent said exercise triggered or aggravated the signs and symptoms of their disorder. However, 42 percent said they modified their exercise routines because of the skin condition, and nearly 9 out of 10 of those that did so said those changes reduced the effect of exercise on their rosacea.

"While exercise is important to a healthy lifestyle, people with rosacea should anticipate flare-ups of rosacea signs and symptoms, especially with strenuous activity or outdoor heat exposure," Dr. James Del Rosso, an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Nevada Medical School."

By doing simple things, such as working out in the early morning or late evening when the weather is cooler or in a cool indoor environment, rosacea sufferers may be able to reduce the intensity of flare-ups."Other ways to reduce or avoid flare-ups: exercising more often, but for shorter periods of time; running a fan or opening a window in order to keep cool indoors; and cooling off by drinking cold fluids or by keeping a damp towel around the neck.

The survey found that walking triggered rosacea in 36 percent of the respondents,
followed by jogging or running (33.5 percent),
aerobics (30.5 percent),
weight lifting (16 percent),
push-ups or sit-ups (15 percent),
and bicycling or spinning (15 percent).

Along with exercise, other common triggers of rosacea flare-ups include hot weather, alcohol, sun exposure, emotional stress, humidity, indoor heat, spicy foods, heated beverages and irritating skin-care products.

Taylor Your Rosacea Treatment To Your Rosacea Symptoms

2006-03-21T10:58:00.000-08:00

Many individuals who are struggling with redness, pimples and visible blood vessels on their face may incorrectly diagnose their condition as acne, sunburn or sensitive skin.
However, they probably have rosacea, a skin condition which if not treated early, can continue to flare or begin to worsen. Therefore, it is important to visit a dermatologist who can make the correct diagnosis and recommend treatments and skin care products that will control the rosacea and keep the skin healthy.
Speaking today at the 64th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology, dermatologist James Q. Del Rosso, D.O., clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, spoke about the individualized treatment options that are helping patients with rosacea manage their condition.
"Rosacea can have devastating effects on self-esteem because it is so noticeable on the face," said Dr. Del Rosso. "When it affects teenagers and young adults, it can cause feelings of isolation and self-consciousness. Adults with rosacea often are caught unaware because they assume they would have outgrown skin conditions. But rosacea treatments are more effective than ever, offering a variety of therapies that are having successful results."
Rosacea is a chronic and often progressive skin disease that causes redness and swelling on the face. As many as 14 million Americans have rosacea, most between the ages of 30 and 50. Rosacea may begin as a tendency to flush or blush easily, and progress to persistent redness in the center of the face that may gradually affect the cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. As the disease progresses, the redness becomes more severe and persistent, and small blood vessels, acne-like pimples and nodules may become visible on the surface of the skin. Rosacea can be exacerbated by exposure to extremes of hot and cold, sunlight, emotional stress, hot beverages, alcohol, spicy foods and certain skin care products.
"Since what triggers rosacea in one patient may not trigger it in another, dermatologists often recommend that patients with rosacea keep a diary of flushing episodes and note associated foods, products, activities, medications or other triggering factors," said Dr. Del Rosso.
Topical treatment options such as metronidazole and azaleic acid can reduce redness, red or pus-filled bumps and other symptoms associated with rosacea. With topical medications, individuals are instructed to be consistent with the application of the product and to be patient, as it may take four to eight weeks to see noticeable improvement.
Oral tetracycline antibiotics, such as doxycycline or minocycline, are the most common oral medications used to treat rosacea. A new form of doxycycline, called anti-inflammatory dose doxycycline, is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of rosacea. This form of doxycycline reduces inflammation without any "antibiotic effects," such as antibiotic resistance. "Whether or not an oral antibiotic is recommended for treating rosacea depends on how severe the case is," stated Dr. Del Rosso.
Glycolic acid peels often are used in conjunction with antibiotics to hasten the control of rosacea. A series of peels are performed every two-to- four weeks and may be used in combination with low concentration glycolic acid washes and creams. Glycolic acid peels for rosacea are timed and generally take three-to-five minutes. The peeled facial skin will be red for a few hours following the treatment and makeup should be avoided during this time.
While topical or oral therapies do not remove the redness on the face or reduce the appearance of dilated blood vessels associated with rosacea, vascular lasers and intense pulsed light therapy are now being used to treat these symptoms.
Vascular lasers emit specific wavelengths of light targeted for the tiny visible blood vessels just under the skin. Heat from the laser's energy builds in the vessels, causing them to collapse. The newest generation of vascular lasers does not produce any bruising, but may cause redness and minimal swelling that lasts approximately 24-to-48 hours.
Intense pulsed light therapy is used to treat the persistent redness caused by rosacea, destroying the dilated blood vessels with multiple wavelengths of light.
Both treatments, laser and intense light, take 15-to-30 minutes and are performed at six-to-12 week intervals. Patients may require several treatments initially, and may return annually for treatment of new blood vessels.
In advanced cases of rosacea, rhinophyma may develop, a condition that occurs when oil glands enlarge on the face and a bulbous, enlarged red nose and swollen cheeks develop. This condition usually occurs in men over 40. The excess tissue can be surgically removed using lasers, dermabrasion or electrosurgery to sculpt the nose back down to a more normal shape and appearance. These procedures may be performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia, and healing generally takes seven-to-10 days.

Finding The Right Balance For Your Rosacea

2006-03-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

The Rosacea-Ltd web site advises that an alkaline based diet can help to improve and control rosacea:
Rosacea results from an overly acidic body and skin. The pH scale (potential of hydrogen) as you remember from your high school general science or chemistry class, ranges from 0 to 14 with 7 being neutral. As you rethink your past rosacea history, you will see that ‘all’ the rosacea triggers come from ‘acidic items’ regardless of whether they are foods, drinks, stress, out of breath due to not enough oxygen (alkaline) and not able to exhaust enough carbon dioxide (acidic). We all know that if we hold our breath for 30 seconds or 60 seconds, we will all notice that our face turns pink or red. We all know, but hardly think that the cause is a build up of carbon dioxide which is an ‘acidic’ gas and we have a shortage of oxygen. Very similarly, when we exercise for a short period, we have a build up of ‘lactic acid’ which is a body waste which is obviously acidic. Likewise, those with rosacea need to be very concerned about the build up of acids in our blood stream due to the foods and beverages that we consume. We all know of our triggers such as alcohol, coffee, pizza, candy/cookies, various medications, etc. which all have a pH below 7.0 or is termed acidic. Our objective therefore should be to balance, buffer or neutralize the acids with alkaline. Water is alkaline with a pH of about 7.3, and likewise more alkaline foods such as more “fresh vegetables and fruits are needed which are alkaline (higher pH than 7.0). Acidic foods and drinks are the problem with a pH of below 7.0 such as coffee at 2.2 and beer averaging 2.0 to 2.5, wines at 3.0, whiskeys/gin/vodka at 4.0 (2 ounces mixed with six ounces of water at 7.3 averages about 6.5 pH or so which is a good drink. The opposite is true when mixed with coke as Soft Drinks have a pH of about 2-2.5 pH. So try hard to minimize the above drinks and delete them entirely if possible while increasing your alkaline foods.

Below is a list of common acid and alkaline foods:

ACID-FORMING & ALKALINE-FORMING FOODS
It must be noted that because a food is acid it is no indication that it REMAINS acid in the body. It can turn alkaline. Honey and raw sugars produce alkaline ash, but because of a high concentrate of sugar become acid-formers. Those fruits marked with an * should not be eaten with other foods. They are acid externally but alkaline internally.
ALKALINE FRUITS Apples/cider Apricots Avocados Bananas Berries (most) Cantaloupe Carob (pod only) Cherries Citron Currants Dates Figs Grapes *Grapefruit Guavas *Kumquats *Lemons (ripe) *Limes Loquats Mangos Nectarines Olives (ripe) *Oranges Papayas Passion Fruit Peaches Pears Persimmons Pineapple (fresh) Pomegranates Melons (all) Raisins Sapotes Tamarind *Tangerines Tomatoes (fully ripened)
ACID FRUITS All preserves All canned with sugar Cranberries Dried-sulphured, glazed Olives (Pickled) Plums Prunes Blueberries
ALKALINE VEGETABLES Alfalfa sprouts Artichokes Asparagus Bamboo shoots Beans (green, lima, wax, string) Beets broccoli Cabbages Carrots Celery Cauliflower Chard Chicory Com Cucumber Dill Dock Dulse Eggplant Endive Escarole Garlic Horseradish Jerusalem artichokes Kale Leeks Lettuce Mushrooms Okra Onions Oyster plant Parsley Parsnips Peas Peppers (bell)
ACID VEGETABLES Asparagus tips (white only) Beans (dried) Garbanzos Lentils
ALKALINE DAIRY Acidophilus milk buttermilk yogurt Milk (raw only -- human, cow, or goat) Whey
ACID DAIRY Butter Cheese (all) Cottage cheese Cream Custards Margarine Milk (boiled, cooked, malted, dried, canned)
ALKALINE VEGETABLES
(continued) Potatoes (skin is best part) Pumpkin Radish Romaine lettuce Rutabagas Sauerkraut Soybeans Spinach Sprouts Squash Turnips Watercress Yams, sweet potatoes

ALKALINE GRAINS Amaranth Quinoa
Buckwheat & millet are thought to be either neutral or alkaline.
ACID GRAINS All grains and grain products except buckwheat & millet
ALKALINE, MISC. Agar Coffee substitute Honey Kelp (edible) Tea (herbal & Chinese) Egg yolks
ACID MISC. Alcoholic drinks Cocoa Coffee, Indian teas Condiments (all) Dressings Drugs Eggs (whites) Flavorings Mayonnaise Tapioca Tobacco Vinegar
ALKALINE NUTS Almonds Chestnuts (roasted) Coconut (fresh)
ACID NUTS All except above Coconut (dried)
ALKALINE FLESH FOOD Beef Juice Blood & bone (only bonemeal is alkaline)
ACID FLESH FOOD All meats Fowl, fish, shellfish, Gelatin

The Progression Of Rosacea

2006-03-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Rosacea may be persistent and worsen over time, leading to permanent changes in appearance and affecting self-esteem. The condition is treatable. Most cases can be controlled easily by avoiding factors that trigger flushing, using sun protection, and by keeping the body well hydrated with water.
As the condition progresses, flushing becomes more persistent and noticeable. Small, red, solid bumps (called papules) and pus-filled pimples (called pustules) may appear on the skin. Because these appear similar to acne, it is sometimes called acne rosacea or adult acne. However, unlike acne, there are no blackheads. Though rosacea is sometimes referred to as "adult acne," it is a distinctly different and often more serious condition than acne vulgaris, which most commonly occurs during adolescence. While both conditions can cause pimples, rosacea requires different therapy -- acne treatments can actually make it worse -- and rosacea rarely goes away by itself.
Small, dilated blood vessels may become visible, too. Often when people with rosacea blush, the enlarged blood vessels in their faces can look like thin red lines.
In advanced cases, more of the face is affected. The skin swells, cysts form, and small, knobby bumps develop on the nose, making it appear red and swollen. This condition, called rhinophyma, is relatively uncommon and primarily affects men. It was the cause of the late comedian W.C. Fields' best-known feature -- his trademark bulbous nose.

Rosacea Clinical Trials

2006-03-15T10:27:00.000-08:00

Clinical Trials: Rosacea

Alabama
Birmingham; Radiant Research - BirminghamRosacea Research Study
Florida
West Palm Beach; Florida Dermatology InstituteRosacea
Georgia
Stockbridge; Clinical Research Atlanta (Stockbridge)Do you have Rosacea?
Massachusetts
Brighton; Boston Clinical TrialsAcne Rosacea Study
Minnesota
Chaska; Ridgeview ResearchRosacea: Are you suffering from moderate to severe facial Rosacea? A re you 18 years of age or older?
Chaska; Ridgeview ResearchDoes eating spicy foods make your face red? Do you frequently experience facial burning? Do you have pimples on your nose, forehead, eyelids and cheeks?
Chaska; Ridgeview ResearchMillions of Americans have Rosacea. Most don't even realize it!
Nevada
Las Vegas; LV Physicians Research Group, LLCModerate to Severe Rosacea
Texas
Dallas; Research Across AmericaRosacea Research Study

Rosacea Sufferers Found to Have Thicker Skin

2006-03-14T07:03:00.000-08:00

Dr. Diane Thiboutot, professor of dermatology; Hilma Benjamin and Dr. Klaus Helm, Division of Dermatology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine.

In a study of the moisture level, elasticity, skin thickness, extent of photodamage and other characteristics of rosacea skin, investigators found rosacea patients had thicker facial skin than normal subjects, which might be a result of edema (swelling). However, the researchers found no significant difference in skin water loss and elasticity between the 20 rosacea patients and 20 patients without rosacea.
Their questionnaire revealed that rosacea patients, who are often affected by sun exposure, were more likely to keep the upper body covered from the sun while doing outdoor work and were less likely to have had sunburns that required medical attention. Despite their apparently reduced sun exposure, however, those with rosacea had more visible blood vessels and blood vessels with a larger diameter.
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a regulator of blood vessel growth that may be associated with sun exposure, was highly expressed in the sebaceous glands of the rosacea patients, Dr. Thiboutot said. She noted that previous research has found VEGF may be involved in the formation of visible blood vessels in rosacea, and that rosacea patients may therefore be especially sensitive to sunlight.

Azelaic Acid May Soon Be Availabale as a Water Soluable Salt

2006-03-09T08:22:00.000-08:00

Azelaic acid is a completely new class of acne and rosacea therapy, chemically different from most of the currently available acne or rosacea medications, including retinoids and alpha-hydroxy acids. Azelaic acid is believed to work uniquely with dual modes of action: antimicrobial activity and normalization of keratinization (the process by which epithelial cells mature as they move toward the skin surface and then slough off) thus addressing two of the major causes of acne.However, azelaic acid, as currently marketed, can cause burning and irritation of the skin. The company's patented chitosan azelate addresses this problem by making the azelaic acid completely water soluble. By increasing the water-solubility of this topically applied drug, increased efficacy is expected. Azelaic acid is FDA approved in the US and is approved abroad for the treatment of acne and rosacea. This molecule can also be developed for the treatment of malasma.

Rosacea Is Often Mistaken For Acne

2006-03-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

Many U.S. adults with redness, pimples and visible blood vessels on their face may think they have acne, but they may have rosacea.
Rosacea is skin condition that if it is not treated early, can continue to flare or begin to worsen, but a visit to a dermatologist who can make the correct diagnosis and recommend treatments and skin care products that will control the rosacea and keep the skin healthy.
"Rosacea can have devastating effects on self-esteem because it is so noticeable on the face," said dermatologist Dr. James Q. Del Rosso, clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at the University of Nevada, in Las Vegas. "It is important for individuals with rosacea to seek treatment early to avoid progression of the condition and avoid any permanent scarring to the face."
As many as 14 million Americans have rosacea, most between the ages of 30 and 50.
Del Rosso presented the findings at the 64th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Many Rosacea Sufferes Also Have Seborrheic Dermatitis

2006-03-02T11:30:00.000-08:00

Studies indicate that the Rosacea Sufferer often has Seborrheic Dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition. Seborrheic dermatitis involves overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil.

First Steps Toward Oral Rosacea Treatment

2006-02-27T12:38:00.000-08:00

CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CGPI) announced today that a Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) for Oracea(TM), has been filed with the United Kingdom's Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The UK will act as reference member state in this decentralized procedure. The MAA for Oracea was submitted to the MHRA on February 24, 2006. A New Drug Application for Oracea was filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August 2005 and has been given a PDUFA date of May 31, 2006. If approved, Oracea will be the first orally administered, systemically delivered drug developed to treat rosacea.
The MAA was based primarily upon the safety and efficacy results of two Phase 3, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trials for Oracea(R). These studies enrolled a total of 537 patients in 28 centers across the U.S. In the two studies, patients receiving Oracea experienced a 61% and 46% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions compared to 29% and 20%, respectively, in patients receiving placebo. The differences were clinically and statistically highly significant (p = less than 0.001 in each study). Side effects of the drug were similar to placebo.
"This is an important step towards maximizing the worldwide opportunity for Oracea," said Colin Stewart, president and chief executive officer of CollaGenex. "If approved by the MHRA, we intend to seek registration for Oracea in other countries of the European Union."
Approximately 25 million adults in the EU suffer from rosacea. Rosacea affects primarily the face and is characterized by the appearance of inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules and nodules), erythema (skin redness) and telangiectasia (spider veins). If allowed to progress to a moderate to severe condition, rosacea can cause itching, pain and thickening of the skin.
CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical company currently focused on developing and marketing proprietary, innovative medical therapies to the dermatology market. CollaGenex's professional dermatology sales force markets Pandel(R), a prescription topical corticosteroid licensed from Altana, Inc., Alcortin(TM) (1% iodoquinol and 2% hydrocortisone), a prescription topical antifungal steroid combination, and Novacort(TM) (2% hydrocortisone acetate and 1% pramoxine HCl), a prescription topical steroid and anesthetic. Alcortin and Novacort are marketed by the Company under a Promotion and Cooperation agreement with Primus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. In addition, CollaGenex has filed an NDA for Oracea(TM), the first systemic compound for the treatment of rosacea, which is currently under evaluation by the FDA, and is conducting a 300-patient, Phase II dose-finding study to evaluate its second dermatology candidate, incyclinide, for the treatment of acne. CollaGenex also currently sells Periostat(R), which the Company developed as the first pharmaceutical to treat periodontal disease by inhibiting the enzymes that destroy periodontal support tissues and by enhancing bone protein synthesis, and Atridox(R), Atrisorb FreeFlow(R) and Atrisorb-D FreeFlow(R), which are products of QLT Inc., the successor to Atrix Laboratories, Inc., for the treatment of adult periodontitis.
Research has shown that certain tetracyclines can be chemically modified to retain non-antibiotic properties that may make them effective in treating diseases involving inflammation and/or destruction of the body's connective tissues. CollaGenex is evaluating various chemically modified tetracyclines (so called "IMPACS" compounds because they are Inhibitors of Multiple Proteases And CytokineS") to assess whether they are safe and effective in these applications. The Company has a pipeline of innovative product candidates with possible applications in dermatology and other disease states. In addition, CollaGenex has acquired the Restoraderm(R) technology, a unique, proprietary dermal drug delivery system, and plans to develop a range of topical dermatological products with enhanced pharmacologic and cosmetic properties.
To receive additional information on the Company, please visit our Web site at www.collagenex.com, which does not form part of this press release.
Statements in this press release, including statements regarding future revenues, gross profits, margins, operating expenses and any other statements about management's expectations, beliefs, goals, plans or prospects, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. CollaGenex' actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those factors contained in CollaGenex' most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 and the most recent Form 10-Q for the Quarter ended September 30, 2005 under the sections "Additional Factors That May Affect Future Results" and "Additional Risks That May Affect Results" as well as other documents that may be filed by CollaGenex from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding CollaGenex' expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future and can be identified by forward-looking words such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should", "will", and "would" or similar words. CollaGenex assumes no obligations to update the information included in this press release or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

The Use of Sulfur In Dermatology

2006-02-27T06:31:00.000-08:00

Abstract
Sulfur has antifungal, antibacterial, and keratolytic activity. In the past, its use was widespread in dermatological disorders such as acne vulgaris, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, pityriasis versicolor, scabies, and warts. Adverse events associated with topically applied sulfur are rare and mainly involve mild application site reactions. Sulfur, used alone or in combination with agents such as sodium sulfacetamide or salicylic acid, has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of many dermatological conditions.
**********
Introduction
Sulfur is a yellow, non-metallic element with medicinal properties. The use of sulfur as a therapeutic agent dates back nearly 70 years. However, in recent years it has received little attention. In dermatology, sulfur has been employed in the treatment of many diseases, including acne vulgaris, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, pityriasis versicolor, scabies, and warts.
Properties
In addition to keratolytic activity, sulfur has mild antifungal and antibacterial activity. However, its precise mechanism of action is unknown. When applied to skin, sulfur is thought to interact with cysteine, present in the stratum corneum, to form hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide can break down keratin, thus demonstrating sulfur's keratolytic activity. Pentathionic acid, which is toxic to fungi, is also formed by cutaneous bacteria as well as keratinocytes from topically applied sulfur. In addition, the keratolytic effects may promote fungal shedding from the stratum corneum. Sulfur has an inhibitory effect on the growth of Propionibacterium acnes as well as Sarcoptes scabiei, some Streptococci, and Staphylococcus aureus. This suggested antibacterial activity purportedly results from the inactivation of sulfhydryl groups contained in bacterial enzyme systems. Although data is sparse, sulfur may have an effect on Demodex mites. However, the role of Demodex in the pathogenesis of rosacea is unclear.
Sulfur Combined with Sodium Sulfacetamide
Sodium sulfacetamide is a sulfonamide agent with antibacterial activity. It acts as a competitive antagonist to paraaminobenzoic acid (PABA), an essential component for bacterial growth. Sodium sulfacetamide has demonstrated activity against P. acnes.
When combined with sulfur in dermatologic preparations, the keratolytic and antibacterial effects make sodium sulfacetamide an effective topical treatment for acne vulgaris, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis. It is especially beneficial in the treatment of acne vulgaris since no sensitivity is observed, the response is consistent, and long-term patient compliance is obtained, as the formulation is cosmetically appealing. Sulfur with sodium sulfacetamide lotion is able to effectively ameliorate seborrhea and acne lesions without excessive erythema or peeling. The combination of sulfur and sodium sulfacetamide is available as a lotion, topical suspension, and cleanser.
Diseases/Disorders Treated with Sulfur
Acne Vulgaris
In clinical trials, lotions containing sulfur 5% with sodium sulfacetamide 10% have been found to be very effective in reducing the number of inflammatory lesions and comedones, as well as reducing seborrhea. Few adverse events were noted and were generally transient and mild, including dryness and itching. Table I summarizes the results of clinical trials investigating the treatment of acne vulgaris with sulfur. One trial evaluated a polythionic acid preparation in the therapy of acne vulgaris. Patients were treated with the preparation in strengths of 2.5. 3.25 or 5%, with or without concomitant therapy with vitamin A, injections of acne vaccine and/or roentgen therapy. After an average of 3 months of treatment, 90 out of 141 patients (64%) benefited from treatment.
Other topical and oral acne medications, such as tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, antibiotics and retinoids are effective, but have numerous adverse events such as irritation, UV hypersensitivity and toxicity. Notably, in women with adult-onset acne, the scaling and erythema associated with other acne treatments are quite unwanted. In addition, systemic antibiotics and retinoids carry significant risk/benefit considerations, such as potential reactions with other medications and systemic toxicity.
Rosacea
Rosacea is a common inflammatory facial skin disorder. Since it is chronic in nature, long-term maintenance therapy in addition to avoidance of flare factors (e.g., sunlight, temperature extremes, and alcohol), are necessary to effectively control rosacea. Topical formulations of sulfur are beneficial in this disease (Table II).
One double-blind study compared the effectiveness of a sulfur 5%/sodium sulfacetamide 10% lotion and metronidazole 0.75% gel in the treatment of adults with moderate rosacea. After six weeks of treatment, the sulfur with sodium sulfacetamide formulation was found to significantly improve erythema (p=0.017), papulopustules (p=0.011) and overall severity score (p=0.002), as well as reduce the number of pustules as compared to metronidazole 0.75% topical gel.
Another study compared a 10% sulfur cream to systemic tetracycline. At the end of treatment, the only difference between the two groups was in the total number of papules and pustules. The sulfur cream produced a greater reduction in the inflammatory components of rosacea than the antibiotic treatment. Also, there was no difference in the relapse rate within six months.
Sulfur with sodium sulfacetamide as a cleanser has also been shown to be effective in rosacea. An investigator-blinded, randomized study evaluated the efficacy of sodium sulfacetamide 10%/sulfur 5% cleanser either alone or in combination with metronidazole 0.75% gel. A reduction in the overall severity of rosacea was noted after eight weeks for both groups, indicating that the cleanser was effective as a monotherapy as well as in combination with metronidazole.
Since oral antibiotic use can be complicated by adverse events, such as bacterial or fungal superinfection, gastrointestinal intolerance and phototoxicity, as well as the reported patient preference, topical preparations containing sulfur are highly desirable therapeutic agents in the treatment of rosacea.
Seborrheic Dermatitis, Dandruff and Pityriasis Versicolor
Seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff and pityriasis versicolor are common chronic infections of the skin caused by yeasts of the genus Malassezia. Sulfur reduces the itching and flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, as well as having a possible antifungal effect against the Malassezia yeasts. Sulfur is often used in combination with salicylic acid for the treatment of these conditions, as they have a synergistic keratolytic action.
Trials evaluating the effectiveness of sulfur preparations in seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff, and pityriasis versicolor are detailed in Tables III and IV , respectively. There was a low incidence of adverse events noted, and these generally included a mild burning sensation and/or dry skin.
Other Diseases/Disorders
There are reports regarding the efficacy of sulfur in other dermatological diseases. Sulfur has been effective in the treatment of scabies, since topically applied sulfur is toxic to the scabies mite (S. scabiei). The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a 6% sulfur ointment applied daily for three days in the treatment of scabies.
A sulfur preparation has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of plane warts. Four patients with plane warts were treated with a preparation containing 2% sulfur, 6% laureth-4 and 37% alcohol in a gel base. With twice daily application of the gel for an average of two months, three patients had excellent results, and the fourth showed improvement.
Conclusion
The obvious efficacy and safety of sulfur has been demonstrated in many trials. Although it has been overshadowed by new oral and topical agents in the treatment of many dermatological diseases, sulfur is still a useful therapeutic modality today.
This manuscript was supported in part by Medicis Pharmaceutical Corporation. Table I. Treatment of Acne Vulgaris with Sulfur and Sulfur Combinations

Number of
Study type Study population subjects

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10%
Open (15) Mild to moderate acne vulgaris of at 25
least 3 months duration; at least 6
papules or pustules, no more than 3
nodules on face
Open (18) Women; mild to moderate acne vulgaris; at 60
least 6 papules or pustules, no more than
3 nodules or 100 comedones on face

S/SS + hexachlorophene 0.5% (with or without hydrocortisone 0.5%)
Retrospective Acne vulgaris 459

Polythionic Acid Preparation (2.5 to 5%)*
Open Acne vulgaris (see also Table III) 20

Treatment Follow-up
Study type regimen (weeks) Results

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10%
Open Twice 12 73.0% reduction in total
daily for lesions from baseline 80.4%
12 weeks reduction in inflammatory
lesions from baseline
Open Twice 12 78.0% reduction in total
daily for lesions from baseline 83%
12 weeks reduction in inflammatory
lesions from baseline 100%
patients moderately or much
better according to
physician's global evaluation

S/SS + hexachlorophene 0.5% (with or without hydrocortisone 0.5%)
Retrospective Twice 12 98% (448/459) patients with
daily for good to excellent clearing
12 weeks

Polythionic Acid Preparation (2.5 to 5%)*
Open Once or End of 50% (10/20) patients improved
twice treatment
daily for

2 to 6
months
(average
3 months)

*This study evaluated a total of 141 patients with acne vulgaris, 121
patients received polythionic acid in combination with vitamin A,
acne vaccine and/or roentgen therapy

Table II. Treatment of Rosacea with Sulfur and Sulfur Combinations

Number of
Study type Study population subjects

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10%
Randomized, double-blind, Rosacea with symmetrical 103
placebo-controlled, involvement; minimum 5
parallel-group, papules/ pustules on each
multicentre side of face; moderate to
severe bilateral erythema
Open, multicentre Rosacea; minimum 5 papules/ 59
pustules on each side of
face; moderate to severe
bilateral erythema

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) vs. Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Moderate rosacea S/SS: 31
Metronidazo
le: 32

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) Cleanser alone or in
combination with Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Moderate rosacea S/SS: 15
S/SS +
Metronidazo
le: 15

Sulfur 10% vs. Tetracycline
Randomized, double-blind, Rosacea Sulfur: 20
placebo-controlled Tetracycline
: 17

Follow-up
Study type Treatment regimen (weeks)

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10%
Randomized, double-blind, Twice daily for 8 weeks 8
placebo-controlled,
parallel-group,
multicentre
Open, multicentre Twice daily for 8 weeks 8

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) vs. Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Twice daily for 8 weeks 8

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) Cleanser alone or in
combination with Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Twice daily for 8 weeks 8

Sulfur 10% vs. Tetracycline
Randomized, double-blind, Cream (active or placebo) 4
placebo-controlled applied once daily for 4
weeks; 2 capsules (active or
placebo) twice daily for 1
week, then one capsule twice
daily for 3 weeks

Study type Results and significance*

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10%
Randomized, double-blind, % reduction in inflammatory lesion count
placebo-controlled, Active: 78% Vehicle: 36%
parallel-group, P<0.001
multicentre Improvement in erythema (% patients
improved)
Active: 83% Vehicle: 31%
P<0.001
Physicians global evaluation (% patients
improved)
S/SS: 98% Vehicle: 68%
P<0.001
Open, multicentre % reduction in inflammatory lesion count
81%
P<0.001
Improvement in erythema (% patients
improved)
81%
Physicians global evaluation (% patients
improved)
96%

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) vs. Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Reduction from baseline in overall
severity (3-point scale; 0=none,
3=severe)
S/SS: from 2.2 to 1.1
Metronidazole: from 2.1 to 1.5
P<0.01

Sulfur 5%/Sodium Sulfacetamide 10% (S/SS) Cleanser alone or in
combination with Metronidazole 0.75% gel
Randomized, single-blind Significant reduction in overall severity
of rosacea from baseline for both groups

Sulfur 10% vs. Tetracycline
Randomized, double-blind, Reduction from baseline in number of
placebo-controlled papules/pustules (difference)
Sulfur: from 213 to 17 (196)
Tetracycline: from 143 to 12 (131)

*For active treatment groups compared to vehicle, comparator or baseline

Table III. Treatment of Seborrheic Dermatitis and Dandruff with Sulfur
and Sulfur Combinations

Study Number of
Study type population subjects Treatment regimen

Sulfur 2% (S) vs. Salicylic Acid 2% (SA) vs. Sulfur 2%/Salicylic Acid 2%
(S/SA) Shampoo
Randomized, double-blind, Moderate S/SA: 12 Twice per week for 5
placebo-controlled to severe S: 12 weeks
dandruff SA: 12
Vehicle: 12

Polythionic Acid Preparation (2.5 to 5%)
Open Seborrhea 112 For scalp: every
of the other day; for other
scalp, or areas: once or twice
seborrheic daily for 2 to 6
dermatitis months (average 3
(see also months)
Table I)

Follow-up Clinical Improvement and
Study type (weeks) significance*

Sulfur 2% (S) vs. Salicylic Acid 2% (SA) vs. Sulfur 2%/Salicylic Acid 2%
(S/SA) Shampoo
Randomized, double-blind, 5 Reduction from baseline in mean
placebo-controlled score of clinical grading (10-
point scale; 0=none, 10=severe)
S/SA: 3.09 P<0.001
S: 2.00 P<0.001
SA: 2.27 P<0.001
Vehicle: 0.64 0.01

Rosacea Treatment

2006-02-24T08:10:00.000-08:00

One of the first treatments for rosacea is to eliminate from your diet or lifestyle whatever triggers the flare-ups, such as alcohol, stress, spicy foods, and sun exposure. It may be helpful to keep a diary of what you eat, drink, and have done during the day and to note the days on which the rosacea appears. Then you can take the record to your next doctor's appointment and discuss lifestyle changes that can help you control the disease.
Antibiotic creams and sometimes oral antibiotics are used to treat the pimples that develop. Antibiotic creams, however, may cause burning and stinging for some people, who may find oral antibiotics, such as tetracycline, a better option. Women who are pregnant should not use some antibiotic creams or tetracycline.
If antibiotics don't control your rosacea, other medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane) or tretinoin cream (Retin-A), may be used, unless you are pregnant. Laser therapy may be helpful in treating the red lines (telangiectasia) of rosacea, but it is usually used only in advanced cases. Dermabrasion, cryosurgery, or laser surgery may be used to treat advanced cases of rhinophyma.
About half of the people who have rosacea also have eye irritation. Oral antibiotics and topical corticosteroids may be used to treat eye problems.
When outdoors, always wear sunscreen to control flare-ups. Also avoid heavy cosmetics and irritating skin care products.

Celebrity Derm Claims Tap Water Damages Skin

2006-02-22T08:14:00.000-08:00

Dr. Dennis Gross, celebrity dermatologist, says tap water contains heavy metals which breakdown collagen and lead to wrinkles. Heavy metals such as iron, copper, magnesium, lead and zinc are free radicals.
These elements build up on the skin's surface and cause dermatologic problems such as those Gross first noticed in his practice when clientele consisting of magazine editors, socialites and designers returned from the fashion shows in Milan with terrible skin.
"Heavy metals on the skin can lead to skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, irritation, inflammation and aging," say Dr. Dennis Gross, author of Your Future Face (Viking 2005). He concluded there are great variations in the content of heavy metals, calcium, and sulfates from one city to the next.
"While the water is clearly drinkable, if you are unlucky enough to be exposed to bad water on a regular basis your skin can suffer the same kind of damage, although to a lesser degree, as sitting in the sun with suboptimal protection," says Dr. Gross, associate clinical professor at New York University Medical Center.

Ocular Rosacea Can Be Worse In Winter

2006-02-17T08:29:00.000-08:00

If you're bothered by irritation, burning or a gritty feeling and redness in your eyes, you're not alone. Winter can bring a host of special challenges for rosacea patients, and the effects of dry eye head the list for many.
"Millions of people suffer from dry eye, and it accounts for 17 percent of all ophthalmologic visits," said Dr. Marian Macsai, chairman of ophthalmology at Northwestern University. "We definitely see more of it during the winter months because of the dryness of the environment, and it often accompanies rosacea."
Dr. Macsai explained that dry eye is either an inability to produce natural tears, or occurs because the oily (lipid) layer in the tear film is unhealthy or incomplete. A dry and windy environment can also cause more rapid evaporation of the aqueous layer of tears. In patients with eye (ocular) manifestations of rosacea, this condition is frequently made worse by blockage of the meibomian glands at the base of the eyelashes, which produce the lipids that hold the moisture on the surface of the eye.
In a recent National Rosacea Society survey of 1,780 rosacea patients reporting ocular symptoms, 95 percent said their eyes had felt dry, gritty or irritated, yet only 28 percent said they had been diagnosed with ocular rosacea.
"If the symptoms of ocular rosacea persist, it's a good idea to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist," said Dr. Macsai. Left untreated, patients with severe ocular rosacea could endure potentially serious consequences, such as scarring within the eyelid or corneal damage that could lead to decreased vision.
For mild symptoms, Dr. Macsai advises patients to use a humidifier or other means to raise the humidity at home or in work environments. She also noted that artificial tears are available at drugstores to moisturize the surface of the eye.
For her rosacea patients with dry eye problems, Dr. Macsai also emphasizes good eyelash hygiene to minimize blockage of the meibomian glands. She suggests a daily eyelash shampooing that can be performed at the end of a morning shower. Place a drop of baby shampoo on a wet washcloth and carefully rub it onto a closed eye to create a slight lather. Rub the washcloth gently back and forth in a horizontal motion over the upper and lower eyelashes. After shampooing the eyelashes on one eye, shampoo the eyelashes on the other eye.
Then, keeping the eyes closed, put your face under the shower water and rinse off all of the soap until the eyelashes feel squeaky-clean. Gently towel dry. This procedure may also be used in the bath or in front of the sink.
"Your doctor may also prescribe an ointment to rub into your lashes twice a day," Dr. Macsai said. "If any eye symptoms persist or worsen at any time of the year, make an appointment with an ophthalmologist."