5 Pro Tips to Beat Redness

With the weather (finally) heating up, we’re living our best lives outdoors.  But for 14 per cent of the North American population that suffers from skin rosacea, this can come at a cost. Rosacea (row-zay-sha), according to the Canadian Dermatology Association is a chronic skin condition characterized by four forms: erythematotelangiectatic (facial flushing and redness), papulopustular (persistent redness and pimple-like bumps, as well as burning and stinging), phymatous (thickened skin tissue around the nose and severe redness), and ocular (redness surrounding skin tissue of the eyes and eyelids, that can lead to burning or stinging, dryness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and watery, bloodshot eyes). To ensure summer redness doesn’t give you the blues, we enlisted dermatologist Dr. Marius-Anton Ionesco to deliver his expert tips

Accessories are key: 

"Your very first line of defence before leaving the house should be accessories," according to Dr. Ionesco. “You should always be wearing sun protection — this includes a hat and sunglasses.”   

Opt for soothing lotions: 

“Use a soothing, soft, protective cream for the face, to moisturize, hydrate and provide immediate skin comfort,” says Dr. Ionesco. “Also, avoid creams with an alcohol base as well as those that contain alpha hydroxides or retinol A,” adds Ionesco. “These can make skin more sensitive.”

Avoid peels: 

If you haven’t already, Ionesco recommends eliminating mask peels from your weekly skincare routine, as well as soap. “These can be harsh, causing inflammation and increasing irritation,” he says. 

Find your match: 

Don’t pick your skincare routine blindly.  “Using specifically developed products formulated to help alleviate redness is a must,” says Ionesco. “Look for a dermatological-tested line that will relax, prevent and treat.” 

Be consistent: 

“Even on cloudy days, rosacea can be easily aggravated,” says Ionesco. “Stick to your routine and always wear sun protection. If inflammation persists, consult a dermatologist to avoid further symptoms.” 

Tool Kit: 

Uriage Roséliane CC Cream 30, $27.95, and Uriage Roséliane Anti-redness Cream, $25.95, at Beauty Boutique by Shoppers Drug Mart

Avène Xeracalm Balm, $27, at Beauty Boutique by Shoppers Drug Mart

Lierac Apaisance Fluid Cream for Sensitive Skin, $52, at www.lierac.ca