GENERAL THERAPY
- No known cure
- Worsens if left untreated
- Flare-ups can occur for periods of weeks or months, then lessens up
- Avoid touching or rubbing face
- Use gentle soap or cleansers when washing problem areas
- Use sunscreen everyday with protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more, that contains UVA, UVB
- For eye care, warm compresses several times a day and use products made for eyes to wash eyelids
- Use of cosmetics with a green-colored base can help mask the redness
Over-the-counter medicines (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
PRECAUTIONS AND AVOIDANCES
- Avoid skin care products that contain alcohol or any other irritants
- Cover face with scarf or mask during winter months
- Apply moisturizer after facial medicine has dried
- Avoid getting overheated
- Limit drinking alcohol, eating spicy foods and hot drinks
- Avoid hot tubs, and saunas
- Avoid midday sun
- Wear wide brimmed hat when out in sun
- Limit stress
- Limit exercise to shorter, more frequent low intensity workouts during cool mornings
- Use only products labeled noncomedogenic
- Keep a diary of what triggers a flare-up (Extreme temps, sun exposure, spicy foods, stress, alcohol, exercise, skin care products)
- Wash daily with gentle cleaners
- Use skin products that are oil-free, and water based
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IF:
- Facial red patches that come and go
- Eye redness or irritations
- Thick bumps on nose that are red and look like blisters
- Small red lines on face and redness with pimples