Rosacea: Prevention and therapy through nutrition and supplementation

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that primarily affects the face and is characterized by redness, visible blood vessels and small pimples. Although the exact cause of rosacea remains unknown, both genetic and environmental factors play a role. For those affected, rosacea can cause not only physical but also psychosocial stress. In this article, we focus on the prevention and possible treatments for rosacea, with a special focus on nutrition and supplementation.  

Prevention and management  

Prevention of rosacea outbreaks can be effectively supported by lifestyle adjustments. General measures include:  

• Protect yourself from sunlight : UV radiation is a known trigger for rosacea. Wearing sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (at least SPF 30), as well as wearing hats and seeking shade can help prevent outbreaks.  

• Skin care : Mild skin care products and those specifically designed for sensitive skin or skin with rosacea can improve symptoms. It is advisable to avoid harsh chemical substances and physical exfoliators.  

Nutrition and supplementation  

Anti-inflammatory diet: Since rosacea is often accompanied by inflammation of the skin, an anti-inflammatory diet can be helpful. This diet involves eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants and avoiding foods that can promote inflammation, such as foods high in sugar and fat.  

Losing visceral fat and achieving a healthy weight have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, which may also potentially be helpful for rosacea, as inflammation also plays a role in this condition.  

• Omega-3 fatty acids : They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. In particular, the fatty acids EPA and DHA, found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring, can help reduce inflammatory processes. Vegetarian options include flax seeds, chia seeds and walnuts. These fatty acids help modulate the body's inflammatory response.  

• Rich in antioxidants : Berries, nuts, green leafy vegetables and whole grains contain high amounts of antioxidants that can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.  

• Low glycemic index : Foods with a low glycemic index, such as whole grains, lentils, and most fruits, cause a slower rise in blood sugar levels, which in turn can counteract inflammation.  

Avoiding trigger foods: Some foods can worsen rosacea symptoms. Common triggers include:  

• Spicy foods: These can increase blood flow and worsen facial redness.  

• Hot drinks and alcohol : They can have similar effects to spicy foods by increasing facial flushing.  

• Foods high in histamine : Certain cheeses, smoked meats, and alcoholic beverages can trigger rosacea outbreaks in some people.  

Dietary supplements: Supplementation can be a valuable addition to the diet, especially when it is difficult to obtain adequate amounts of certain nutrients through food.  

• Omega-3 supplements : For people who do not eat fish regularly, fish or algae oil supplements can be a good alternative.  

• Probiotics : These can support the balance of the intestinal flora, which in turn can promote healthy skin. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin's barrier function. Here you can find two of our products that contain probiotics:

• Vitamin B complex : Niacin (vitamin B3) in particular can be helpful as it strengthens the skin barrier and has anti-inflammatory properties. Niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3, is particularly effective in reducing skin redness.  

• Zinc: A mineral known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Zinc can be helpful in healing skin lesions and reducing inflammation. Here you can find a product from us that contains zinc:

• Antioxidant supplements: Vitamins C and E are popular for their antioxidant properties and can support the skin from within, especially in neutralizing free radicals. Here you can find a product from us that contains antioxidants:

• MSM (methylsulfonylmethane): MSM could potentially be helpful in treating rosacea because it has anti-inflammatory properties and can improve skin structure by supporting collagen and keratin. MSM also offers antioxidant benefits that can protect the skin from free radical damage. Here is a product from us that contains MSM:  

 

Possible therapies  

For those suffering from rosacea, it is important not only to take preventive measures, but also to pursue targeted therapeutic approaches that are tailored to the specific symptoms and severity of the disease.  

Drug treatments  

Topical medications : Many of the first lines of treatment for rosacea are topical creams and gels that are applied directly to the skin. These may contain antibiotics that help reduce inflammation and redness. Metronidazole and azelaic acid are two commonly prescribed agents that show good results in many patients.  

• Metronidazole: It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is available in different concentrations depending on the severity of symptoms.  

• Azelaic acid: This substance helps reduce inflammation and can improve the appearance of rosacea when used regularly.  

Oral medications : In more severe cases or when topical treatments are not sufficient, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics. Tetracyclines, such as doxycycline or minocycline, are common options that have not only antibacterial effects but also powerful anti-inflammatory effects.  

• Doxycycline: Often prescribed in lower, anti-inflammatory doses, it can help control the symptoms of rosacea without the typical risks of long-term antibiotic use.  

• Isotretinoin : For very severe cases, isotretinoin, a powerful medication commonly used for acne, may be considered as a last option, but under strict medical supervision.  

Physical and laser treatments  

Laser therapy : One of the methods for treating the visible blood vessels (telangiectasias) that can occur with rosacea is laser therapy. Targeted light pulses heat and close the affected vessels, which leads to a reduction in redness.  

• Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL): Specifically designed to target the red pigments in the blood vessels without damaging the surrounding skin.  

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): A less invasive option that uses broader wavelengths of light to improve redness and pigmentation.  

Natural and alternative therapies  

In addition to conventional medical treatments, there are also a number of possible natural and alternative therapies that some sufferers may find helpful:  

• Green tea : Green tea-based creams have shown anti-inflammatory properties and can soothe the skin.  

• Aloe Vera : Known for its soothing and healing properties, aloe vera gel can help cool the skin and relieve redness.  

• Quercetin : A flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, it has anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful in treating rosacea symptoms.  

 

 

Conclusion  

Although rosacea can be a challenging skin condition, the combination of targeted dietary changes, careful skin care and medical treatment offer effective ways to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life of those affected. As with all health conditions, treatment should always be undertaken in collaboration with qualified healthcare providers.  

 

Sources

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