The Best (& Worst) Ingredients for Rosacea Skin – Complete Guide

One of the key factors for healthy skin is the skin barrier, aka the stratum corneum. This barrier acts as a protective shield by blocking out unwanted substances and preventing moisture loss. However, in rosacea skin, this barrier can be severely compromised.

This is where knowing your skin care ingredients can make a huge difference.

In this article, we’re going to look at the best ingredients for rosacea and how they support not the skin barrier, but the overall health of your skin. In addition, we will briefly dive into ingredients that are generally best to avoid if you have rosacea.

TOP 15 INGREDIENTS FOR ROSACEA SKIN

1. Zinc Oxide

Zinc has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been shown to help rosacea when used internally and topically.

When it comes to internal use, one study showed that taking 100 mg of zinc sulfate supplements helped to alleviate rosacea symptoms. In addition, the supplements didn’t produce any major side effects, except for mild gastrointestinal upset in 3 of the 25 study participants.

As for topical use, zinc oxide is a good choice for sunscreen because it’s a physical sunscreen, as opposed to a chemical sunscreen which is absorbed into the skin and can cause irritation.

In addition, zinc oxide has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe redness, reduce the size of pores and regulate oil production.

2. Green Tea
Green tea is best known for being antioxidant-rich and anti-inflammatory. A lot of this is due to EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), which is the most abundant – and most studied – antioxidant in green tea.

In fact, research has shown that a cream containing EGCG reduced the number of lesions in people with papulopustular rosacea.

It’s also worth noting that green tea, comes in two forms: standard green tea and matcha (green tea leaves that have been ground into a powder).

Matcha can have up to 3 times more antioxidants. So, whether you’re making your own DIY products or purchasing one, look out for matcha.

3. Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin and Other Humectants

Humectants are an essential part of a rosacea skin care routine because they attract water and subsequently, increase the skin’s moisture levels.  Some of the main humectants to consider adding to your skin care routine include:  glycerin, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, honey, seaweed, oats,

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C has proven to be an effective topical therapy for rosacea because of its anti-inflammatory effect and ability to protect against free radical damage. But note that the research done on vitamin C and rosacea used ascorbic acid (pure vitamin C). While ascorbic acid is definitely very effective, it can be too harsh for some people.

So, what’s a better alternative? Use a vitamin C derivative. These are gentler on the skin, more stable and they tend to penetrate the skin better. Some examples of these derivatives include:

L-Ascorbic Acid (L-AA).
Ascorbyl Glucoside.
Methylated L-Ascorbic Acid.
Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP).

5. Carrier Oils
Because they’re particularly rich essential fatty acids and antioxidants, carrier oils are a great way to nourish your skin and support delicate rosacea-prone skin.

Furthermore, oils that are rich in the fatty acid, linoleic acid, can be particularly beneficial for rosacea. This is because linoleic acid is an essential component of the skin barrier and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

Some of the best plant-based oils to include for rosacea skin care routine are:

Rosehip oil: Rich in linoleic acid, vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene) and antioxidants like vitamin E, anthocyanin and polyphenols. Brightens the skin, improves elasticity, and reduces inflammation.
Grapeseed oil: Rich in linoleic acid. Has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Packed with antioxidants like tocopherol (vitamin E), resveratrol (which we’ll be discussing later) and quercetin.
Sea buckthorn oil: High in omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids. Also a rare plant-based source of palmitoleic acid, an omega 7 fatty acid that has powerful anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties (source).
Jojoba oil: Suitable for oily or acne-prone skin since its composition is so similar to our natural skin sebum. Also has antibacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Azelaic Acid
This natural compound is commonly found in grains like wheat, barley and rye. When used on the skin, azelaic acid exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects that are helpful for rosacea or acne-prone skin. More specifically, research shows azelaic acid reduces redness and the number of inflammatory lesions.

It’s worth noting that the research on azelaic acid used a 15% azelaic acid gel and focused on mild to moderate papulopustular rosacea.

7. Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA)
Unlike alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) provide a gentler form of chemical exfoliation that can be helpful for some rosacea patients.

In particular, BHAs like salicylic acid can improve your skin if you tend to get acne or oily skin.

That said, BHAs can be too strong for some people. As is always the case with rosacea, listen to your skin.

NOTE: a gentler alternative to BHAs is goat milk. Although it is an alpha hydroxy acid – which is usually a no-no for rosacea – there is anecdotal evidence that goat milk can actually be very soothing to sensitive skin.

8. Oats
(Colloidal oats) Oats have traditionally been used to soothe inflamed and irritated skin. The main reason why oats are so helpful for sensitive skin is because they have humectant properties that pull moisture to the skin and increase ceramide levels. These ceramides are fatty compounds that soften the skin and also help lower inflammation. When using oats for rosacea, you can use them in the form of colloidal oats or oat oil.

Colloidal oats are simply oats that have been ground into a fine powder (not to be confused with oat flour). They’re great for DIY face masks!

As for oat oil, it’s packed with antioxidants and fatty acids. Research shows that it repairs the skin barrier, even though it has only a moderate amount of linoleic acid (36 – 46%).

9. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is used internally and topically, because of its protective antioxidant properties and its connection to increasing collagen III.

This specific type of collagen is often damaged by excessively dilated blood vessels. This means those with rosacea can already have compromised collagen III levels.

When you increase type III you encourage fibroblast function. This is significant for the skin because fibroblasts are the cells that produce collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.

Lastly, one particular study showed that topical use of a product containing resveratrol, green tea and caffeine reduces redness.

While it’s not clear exactly how much resveratrol alone reduces redness, the results of this study are promising for anyone with inflamed skin.

10. Rose water (or pure hydrosol)
Rose water is a by-product of the production of rose essential oil. It contains very little essential oils (about 0.05%) which means it’s less likely to irritate the skin.

Overall rosewater helps to:

soothe redness and inflammation.
hydrate the skin.
balance pH.
reduce oiliness.
fight off free radicals (thanks to its antioxidant content.
For rosacea, combining rosewater and glycerin can be particularly soothing and hydrating.

11. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera gel is an incredibly hydrating humectant that also packs in lots of nutrients, including:

• minerals like zinc, selenium and manganese
• vitamins C and E
• B-vitamins
• antioxidants like beta-carotene

In addition, aloe stimulates fibroblasts (those cells that produce collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid). It’s no wonder, that this natural ingredient is used for dryness, itching, inflammation and anti-aging!

But that’s not all. Consuming aloe juice is often used in some detoxes. It may help to lower inflammation and promote the elimination of toxins that are contributing to skin issues.

12. Niacinamide
Niacinamide is one of the B vitamins – specifically, one of the two forms of vitamin B3 – that stimulates collagen production, improves cell turnover, and helps smooth the surface of the skin.

In fact, because of its potency, niacinamide is used as an alternative to topical antibiotics that are prescribed for rosacea.

13. Ceramides
Ceramides are found naturally in the outermost layer of the skin. They help regulate moisture loss, protect the skin barrier and prevent the development of skin conditions.

According to various publications, these ceramides are found at lower levels in rosacea-prone skin. This makes the external application of ceramides to your skin crucial.

If this isn’t enough evidence for their relevance with rosacea, a survey of dermatologists unanimously concluded ceramides contribute to successful rosacea therapy.

14. Sulfur
While the use of sulfur for skin conditions goes as far as back ancient Egypt, the first effective (and documented) use of sulfur for rosacea dates back to 1855. These days it’s available commercially in a variety of over-the-counter products and has been shown to reduce inflammatory lesions and perilesional erythema. It is best used for acne-rosacea. Modern sulphur containing formulations for rosacea incorporate 10% sodium sulfacetamide combined with 5% sulphur. The new foam formulations are easier to apply and exude fewer odors. Antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal properties have been attributed to sulphur.

Despite these positive outcomes, sulfur can cause unwanted side effects such as dryness, itchiness, irritation or temporary redness. (Use with caution).

15. Herbs
Herbs offer bioactive compounds that can benefit rosacea skin in various ways. For example, research shows that licorice root can improve redness and redness when applied twice a day over the course of four weeks (source).

Similarly, feverfew has been identified in clinical studies as an herbal remedy for rosacea. This herb offers UV protection (helping to shield the skin from potentially aggravating UV rays) and has antioxidant properties (source).

 

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID FOR ROSACEA
In general, it’s best to avoid these ingredients if you have rosacea (1, 2, 3):

Artificial fragrance.
Sodium lauryl sulfate.
Menthol.
Drying alcohols.
Camphor.
Tretinoin.
Urea.
Essential oils like eucalyptus and peppermint.
Benzoyl peroxide.
Hydroquinone.
Physical scrubs (such as sugar scrubs).
Astringents.
Lastly, witch hazel is another ingredient that can be troublesome for rosacea. However, it’s worth noting that witch hazel extracts can be extracted either in alcohol or water.

Unfortunately, many skin care companies use the alcohol-extracted form. So, a lot of the irritation that people experience with witch hazel, often comes from the leftover alcohol.

Witch hazel itself is a soothing herb. So, if you’d like to try witch hazel, find one that is extracted in water (and check with your dermatologist before adding it to your routine).

 

FAQs ABOUT ROSACEA INGREDIENTS
Is retinol good for rosacea?
In certain cases, retinol can help rosacea. But retinol is a potent ingredient and it could cause dryness, plus other forms of irritation.

So, if you decide to add retinol to your rosacea routine, make sure to use it sparingly, especially at the beginning. Also, seek guidance from your dermatologist in terms of what strength of retinol to use and how often.

Is vitamin E good for rosacea?
Vitamin E has various healing properties that could help rosacea. When used topically it reduces dryness and combats oxidative damage. According to anecdotal reports, vitamin E oil may also improve dryness, reduce acne flare ups and lower redness.

Is olive leaf extract good for rosacea?
While there isn’t research specifically on olive leaf and rosacea, olive contains compounds like oleuropein, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. One study showed that olive leaf extract has skin-rejuvenating abilities (source). This might benefit rosacea-prone skin.

In addition, olive leaf supports the immune system and is used as a supplement for candida overgrowth. Some people link rosacea to candida. So, depending on the underlying cause of your rosacea, olive leaf may help.

Is collagen cream good for rosacea?
The evidence indicates collagen cream can have a positive influence on rosacea. Research has shown a strong correlation between collagen and microvessels: when collagen levels decrease, microvessel density and size increase. This can worsen skin that’s already prone to abnormal vascular functioning.

Topically applying collagen could help counteract this tendency, thus improving the skin’s underlying structure and strength.

Is vaseline good for rosacea?
As an occlusive, vaseline prevents water loss. For rosacea, it can be applied onto damp skin to lock in moisture.

CONCLUSION
While there’s no perfect ingredient or remedy for rosacea, there are many scientifically-backed ingredients that can help and many different types of ingredients that you can add to your skin care routine. You can find MANY of these ingredients in the Vivoderm products, including the Zinc Repairing Facial Cream and the Herbal Facial Acne Mask and Anti-Aging Masks.

Sun Protection and Photo Aging

“Photo-aging” is the term used to describe the damage that is done to the skin from prolonged exposure to the sun’s UV radiation The amount of photo aging that develops depends on different factors such as a person’s skin color and their history of long-term or intense sun exposure. Studies have shown that repeated ultraviolet (UV) exposure breaks down collagen and impairs the synthesis of new collagen. The sun also attacks our elastin causing the skin to become loose, wrinkled, and leathery.

Ultraviolet radiation penetrates the layers of the skin. Both UVA and UVB rays cause damage leading to wrinkles, lower immunity against infection, aging skin disorders, and cancer. However, they appear to damage cells in different ways.

UVB rays are the main cause of sunburns, and primarily affects the outer skin layers. UVB is most intense at midday when sunlight is brightest. Slightly over 70% of the yearly UVB dose is received during the summer. Only 28% is received during the remainder of the year.

UVA rays penetrate more deeply and efficiently. The intensity of UVA rays is less dependent on the time of day and season of the year than UVB rays. For example, you receive only about half of your yearly UVA dose during the summer months, with the balance spread over the rest of the year.

Almost all dermatologists and doctors agree, sun protection products should be worn year round. It is important to apply sunscreen diligently during the summer months as it is most intense at this time. But just because you’re a mountain dweller, don’t think you can avoid the sun’s rays there either. UV rays are almost twice as harsh at higher altitudes.  Combined with the reflective snow surface, high altitude sun can damage skin at a surprisingly fast rate and cause just as much damage as sun burns on the beach.

Sunscreen Product Facts

• Broad spectrum only should be used.
• SPF is only related to UVB protection and does not provide a reference to the UVA protection in the product.
• All sunscreens will have UVB protection, which is reflected in the SPF.
• If skin sunburns in 10 minutes, a properly applied sunscreen SPF 15 means they will burn in 150 minutes
• Physical screens reflect light whereas chemical screens absorb UV converting the energy into heat
• SPF15 blocks 87.5% of UVB and SPF 50 blocks 98% of UVB.

If you are looking for the best all around protection against UV rays, Zinc Oxide is your best choice. Zinc has a superior ability to protect your skin from UVA radiation. So, it is the natural, organic star of the skin care products available today. Zinc may leave a slight ‘white-cast’ on your skin, but considering the alternative chemical-laden, inflammatory or allergy-inducing options for sun protection today, zinc is an excellent choice for sensitive skin. Scientists are currently working on a “micro-fine” version of zinc to eliminate this effect without changing the power of the sunscreen itself.

Always look for a sunscreen product that is dual-spectrum, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are the rays that cause wrinkles and skin aging, while UVB rays produce tans and burns. Applying sunscreen to not only the face but body is important. Sunscreen should be applied daily and even multiple times during the day depending on your outdoor activities. Sun protections no lower than SPF 30 should be applied to the face and body.

Many may also be unaware they can EAT for sun protection! Natural anti-oxidants from fresh berries, green tea, spirulina and many other foods act as natural barriers to the harmful effects of the sun.

The Sunscreen Product Debate – Potentially Harmful Ingredients of Sunscreens

You may be wondering, “How effective are sunscreens in protecting the skin against UVA and UVB rays from the sun? How harmful are their ingredients? Do sunscreens damage more than they protect?” Many have reported the very ingredients in sunscreens that offer sun protection, have also been found to have adverse side effects

While the debate between whether sunscreens are safe or not continues, chemical watchdog, the Environmental Working Group reported 84% of sunscreen products are harmful to consumers.

The bottom line is this. It is up to you as the informed consumer to research all skin care and sunscreen products you use, not only for efficacy but for safety as well. You only have one body, do your best to protect it and treat it well. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and take necessary precautions and measures to increase your natural sun protection factor and avoid future skin damage.

There are many different kinds of zinc cream available in the market today. Zinc contains an array of benefits that are effective for different skin irritations in children as well as in adults, including diaper rash, acne and sun protection. It is definitely among the best creams that you can possess in the medicine cabinet.

Protect and heal your skin with Zinc

The first thing that might come to your mind when you are thinking about zinc is a lifeguard sitting at his post with a coating of thick white, zinc oxide cream on his nose or body to protect himself from sunburn. Yes, this may the the old version of zinc you knew, but today’s formulations are lighter, less concentrated and zinc skin care cream is still undoubtedly the best way to prevent sunburn. Many modern dermatologists now believe sunscreen lotions with zinc oxide work better in comparison to the pure chemical sunscreens in blocking the dangerous UV rays of the sun.

You may not know, but zinc cream works wonders for different skin conditions and complications as well. It is extremely useful in treating acne and pimples. It helps in providing you respite from acne breakouts. It reduces inflammation and decreases the excessive oil production. By applying this cream you will be able to take out infectious toxins. It will also enhance skin healing quickly.

You should know how to apply this cream on your skin. Use it generously on your skin. Do not cover the area after application. If you plan on using the cream on young children you must consult a pediatrician. Since zinc is non-toxic and natural, most users  will not have any skin reactions after application.

If you are looking for a trusted zinc facial cream or product then you might want to try Vivoderm’s zinc repairing facial cream. It is a natural water based cream which is infused with Vitamin A and E. It has anti-inflammatory properties of Comfrey and Chamomile. Zinc oxide is required for healing and tissue growth. Their facial treatment also has anti-bacterial agents that help to fight the bacteria which causes acne. So, if you want miraculous results for your acne skin or sun protection, we think you can’t go wrong choosing zinc.

One of the latest trends in sun protection and skin healing is zinc oxide. You might remember this from the days at the beach, or the local swimming pool with lifegurads who wore white cream on their nose or face to protect them from hours and hours in the sun.  Well, today’s zinc cream has advanced into microscopic particals that are hardly noticable, but still have the same benfits.

Zinc oxide is a powdery white mineral that is used in many cosmetics. The mineral dissolves in acidic environment but is not soluble in water, hence making it an excellent sun block for your skin as a barrier against sweat and perspiration. This is why it is used as one of the primary ingredients in sunscreen lotions. Zinc oxide when applied topically can also have many benefits for the skin along with acting as a natural sun block.

A natural choice for sun protection and acne

One of the many benefits of zinc cream is quick wound healing. It promotes fast healing in treating any type of sores, bug bites or lacerations, surgical incisions, burns, skin ulcers and other skin irritations. As a mineral, usually found in our food and vitamins, Zinc is required by the body for collagen synthesis and is essential for healing wounds. It is also a component for the proper functioning of enzymes which are needed to repair wounds in the skin.

Zinc skin care cream has a mild astringent property which acts as a drying agent. It acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps in tightening body tissues. Zinc oxide creams aids in soothing itching and skin rashes.

Another benefit that zinc oxide offer is prevention and treatment of acne. The skin cream helps in healing blemishes and reducing inflammation. It helps in regulating the skin’s oil gland and hence stops acne breakouts.

Zinc cream is one of the safest ingredients that are used for protecting the skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Ultraviolet rays penetrate the skin and damage the skin tissue. ANY sun rays speed up the aging process of the skin create wrinkles and dark spots.

Sunscreens and moisturizers containing zinc oxide help to filter out the rays and prevent this occurrence of cell damage.

The Vivoderm zinc repairing facial cream can help prevent sun damage, premature wrinkles and inflammation. It is a natural facial cream which is infused with Vitamin A and E. It also contains the anti-inflammatory properties of Comfrey and Chamomile. This cream helps to maintain the moisture level in the skin and diminishes the visible signs of aging. The Zinc oxide present in the cream is essential for healing and tissue growth. It is also used as a sun block and for treating acne.

So, if you are looking for a great overall skin moisturizer with the benefits of sun protection and anti-acne properties, you would most likely benfit from the Vivoderm zinc repairing facial cream.

 

Exposure to sun can cause damage to the skin. Freckles, wrinkles, sunburn are few of the things caused by over exposure to sun rays. Using an effective sunscreen is the best way to offer protection to your skin. However, the best thing for you would be a zinc cream or a sunscreen with zinc oxide that helps in blocking the harmful sun rays.

Zinc Creams are excellent ways to prevent sun damage

Zinc Oxide offers natural UV protection. It works by absorbing the harmful rays into the sunscreen and prevents any damage to the skin. By providing sun protection it will help you to prevent premature aging. Zinc oxide cream would be great for those who are allergic to other creams containing chemicals. Other effects of this skin care cream are preventing diaper rash and acne.

Most zinc creams or creams containing zinc oxide are non-toxic, so they are safe for children – like diaper cream. Feel free to apply liberally or regularly to prevent sun damage. Most zinc creams also contain a natural SPF of 15 to 30, but some may have a higher concentration for higher protection. You can tell the difference by the thickness of the cream – the higher the zinc amount – the whiter and thicker the cream will be.

If you are looking for a facial zinc repairing cream then nothing can be better than the one offered by Vivoderm. It is a natural skincare brand offering a range of products made from nature’s potent ingredients. This face cream is infused with vitamins, Comfrey, and Chamomile. Zinc is also a natural anti-bacterial and is excellent for reducing acne breakouts. It helps in maintaining skin’s moisture level and aids in reducing the signs of aging (with the SPf factor) and acne. It makes skin smooth and firm by promoting a blemish-free complexion.

Zinc Oxide Creams or Moisturizers are some of the newer trends in the skincare market today. One of the most beneficial creams to keep in your home, the first thing that will come to your mind is the zinc oxide sunscreens that help in absorbing and blocking the dangerous ultra-violet rays of the sun. This non-toxic sunscreen is often used by lifeguards. But did you know it is also beneficial for preventing acne and rosacea?

Zinc is a natural antibacterial agent that prevents the buildup of bacteria and helps to fight acne. This helps in reduction of excess oil production and removes the toxins in your skin. Zinc oxide creams are also used by many mothers for the prevention of diaper rash. It has versatile usability like treating minor cuts and dandruff and other skin related issues.

Zinc generally has a natural SPF factor of 15.  The Vivoderm Zinc Repairing Facial Cream for instance, also contains many anti-oxidant properties that help in taking care of your skin, like Comfrey, Chamomile, Vitamin A and E. The zinc cream moisturizer maintains the moisture of the skin and reduces the signs of aging. The creams available in the market can be purchased under various brands. You can use zinc repairing creams at morning and evening. Individuals with normal to oily skin are recommended to use these natural creams.

Protecting your skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun has always been a major issue. Most of the aging process of our skin, pigmentation, wrinkles, etc., starts with being our over exposure to the sun. Both the UVA and UVB rays are harmful for the human skin. To counter this detrimental effect the majority of us use sun screens at a random basis.

But, have you ever considered the SPF or sun protecting factor of your sun screen lotion? Do you actually know whether or not it suits your skin type?

It is always advisable to wear a sun screen lotion that counters both the UVA and UVB rays. These lotions are largely known as dual spectrum sun screen lotions. They constitute ingredients like oxybenzone and zinc oxide. While oxibenzone is used for absorbing the sun rays, zinc oxide is used to block the same but without resorting to potentially harmful chemicals.

What is Tea?

Tea is the common name for the Camellia sinensis plant. It is the agricultural product of the leaves, leaf buds, and internodes (the portion of a plant stem between nodes) of the plant that are prepared and cured by various methods. “Tea” also refers to the aromatic beverage prepared from the cured leaves by combination with hot or boiling water.

And for clearer, younger looking skin, your anti aging skin care range of products should contain more natural active ingredients than any other “drug-store” brand, so be sure to read those labels carefully. Those ingredients like Aloe Vera, Almond Oil, Cocoa Butter, and Shea Butter are effective moisturizers, because they penetrate deeply to “nourish” the skin. So, they never feel greasy and come from natural sources less likely to cause allergic reactions.

Also be aware to shop for natural products that report no negative or adverse effects. Skin care prodcuts that are hypo-allergenic, fragrance free and can be used on any skin-type are best.