If you use the right regimen and proper medication, and avoid your rosacea triggers, it's easy to have healthier skin. But since any irritation can make your rosacea worse, it's important to select the right products and to follow the proper procedure when cleansing, shaving, moisturizing, applying your FINACEA, and using cosmetics. Here are a few key things to bear in mind:

Choose rosacea-friendly products. Avoid products that include alcohol, witch hazel, menthol, peppermint, eucalyptus oil, or clove oil. If you must choose a product that contains a fragrance, be sure that it appears at or near the end of the list of ingredients.

Blot, don't rub. After washing and cleansing, use a thick, soft cotton towel to gently blot your face dry. Never pull, tug, or scratch. And avoid loofahs, brushes, or sponges.

If you can't stand the heat. Heat and humidity are both rosacea triggers. So stay away from hot water, hot tubs, and saunas as these can bring on flushing and aggravate your condition.

Always use a sunscreen. In a survey of 1,066 rosacea patients, fully 81% said sun exposure was a trigger for rosacea. So always use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater, making sure it contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Alternatively, use a moisturizer that contains such a sunscreen. If necessary, use a formulation developed for children to avoid irritation. In addition, wear a broad-brimmed hat, and during summer months minimize midday (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) exposure to the sun.

For more information on rosacea and UV rays, visit:
http://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/coping/tripwires.php#Coping

Defend against cold weather. Cold weather is a known trigger for rosacea. Cover up on cold, windy days, and if you're involved in outdoor activities, wear a ski mask. In addition, use a moisturizer daily to protect against the naturally drying effects of cold and wind.

Choose rosacea-friendly cosmetics. Choose water-removable cosmetics; they wash off easily. By contrast, waterproof cosmetics require special removal solvents that can damage your skin. Look for cosmetics with fewer rather than more ingredients; they're less likely to cause problems. If you wear eyeliner or mascara, wear black rather than colored pigments, which can irritate your eyes.

These tips are courtesy of Dr. Zoe Draelos.

Click here to learn more about FINACEA Plus