I suffer from rosacea and really sensitive skin, I have searched for years for something to clean my face with, without an outbreak on my face, 40 years and thousands of products tried and tested and I have found it! Will never go back! So thank you Liz Earle for the Cleanse & Polish. Mrs Lynn Smart
Rosacea is a common, long-term and non-contagious skin disorder. It is unrelated to acne and many dermatologists are still unclear about exactly what causes it, with sunlight, alcohol, extreme temperatures, prolonged stress, certain foods or medication and strenuous physical activity all cited as possible causes. Symptoms vary and are often intermittent, but are generally denoted by facial redness and flushing, frequently resembling a permanent blush or sunburn. Skin may also look bumpy with tiny red spots (that can sometimes be mistaken for acne) and small blood vessels may appear. Sometimes burning, stinging or itching can be felt.
Our skincare advice
- Cleanse your face and neck twice a day using a mild detergent-free cleanser such as Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser. But rather than using a pure muslin cloth rinsed in hand-hot water, stick to cooler water and very gently remove the cream. Rosacea-prone skin is usually very sensitive, so use a lighter touch. It may help to sometimes use a soft, wet sponge to remove Cleanse & Polish, instead of the muslin cloth twice a day, as this may be gentler on your skin.
- Rosacea-prone skin should still be moisturised and you may find a product made with natural botanicals, rather than man-made chemicals, is more suitable for your skin. Try our Skin Repair Moisturiser for dry/sensitive skin, as it includes antioxidant natural source vitamin E and GLA from borage oil to help skin replace lost moisture. Or if your skin is very sensitive you may prefer our Superskin Moisturiser, which is fragrance-free, to soothe even the most fragile of skin. To ensure these moisturisers are suitable for your skin it may help to try the treat-size versions first and then opt for the full-size versions when you are sure the formula is right for your skin.
- Visit your GP, who can prescribe oral antibiotics or topical gels or creams to help you ease your symptoms.
- Avoid exfoliating rosacea-prone skin, as this can often leave it feeling even more sensitive.
- Steer clear of extreme temperatures (such as saunas and steam rooms) and after exercise, if your face feels red and hot, wash it with cool water or soak a clean towel or cloth in cool water and use it to cool your skin.
- Always protect your skin in the sun with a mineral sunscreen like our Mineral Sun Cream SPF20, as these are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
- Some sufferers report relief when using Intensive Nourishing Treatment Mask, as our richly, soothing mask contains calming comfrey and St. John's wort, to help calm irritated skin and ease any redness.
Read our Acne Rosacea fact sheet for more detailed skincare advice and treatments.
