Hi SM,

Thanks so much for your helpful advice. I'm not one of those women who are
naturally gifted when it comes to understanding the art of make-up, so it's
great to "speak" with a friendly cosmetologist.

On Friday my old compact was finally emptied so I will wash it out and store
crushed foundation (from the solid cake) in that, and just tip out enough for
the day, as you recommend.

Regarding eye shadow applicators, I'd always used the one that came with the
colour palette and never even washed it. :(

Funnily enough, I've just tried one of those crayon-style eye shadows, supposed
to be very easy and gentle to apply. Couldn't believe how it tugged at the skin
on my eyelids. It's straight back to powders in future.

I hope you are doing well.

Kind regards, and thanks again,

Aurelia

Hi,

I had commented on this very subject months ago, being that I am a lisenced
cosmetologist and have rosacea.... knowing the proper care of your make-up and
your applicator tools is crucial in keeping all your make-up and skin healthy.

So long as you allocate out the amount of make-up into a clean washed hand or
small clean container from which to dip your applicator brush into the mineral
or liquid make-up, this process will not allow the applicator brush to introduce
your skin's bacteria or demodex mites into your make-up.

Do not allow your brush's or applicators to touch the original make-up
containers.  This would be cross contamination.

Also, for eye shadow application, use cue-tips cotton swabs, and dispose of
after every swipe and use a new one.  Unless you use mineral powder eye shadow,
then shake out a tiny bit to use as I described above.

Think of it like this, we wouldn't eat off of dirty eating utensils over and
over, day after day, would we?  Or double dip into a sauce or dips while eating,
you would ladel out some into your plate, so why double dip with our facial
make-up applicators?

Seems reasonable to me.....

good luck,

S



To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
From: nurse_artist@...
Date: Sat, 14 Nov 2009 01:32:43 +0000
Subject: [rosacea] Re: Keeping make-up mite-free

Hi: I wouldn't worry too much about it if the product has preservatives and you
wash the brush at least once or twice a week. Let the brush dry in the sun,
since sunlight is antibacterial :)

Cheers!

Artist

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "Aurelia.Dawn" <aurelia.dawn@...> wrote:
>
> Hi.
>
> Some say that if you have bacteria and/or Demodex mites on your face, as most
people do, topical products such as make-up can easily be contaminated by
dipping the applicator (whether that is a finger, brush or make-up sponge) back
into the product after letting it touch the skin. Does anyone know the facts
about that, please?
>
> The foundation I use is Glominerals' pressed base, which is a solid cake of
minerals supplied with a powder puff and no shaker. I apply the minerals with a
soft brush, but not enough powder adheres to the brush to cover my face with one
dip and it usually takes three "passes", as in dippings and fluffings.
>
> Before opening a brand-new compact, I would really appreciate any comments or
advice on keeping it clean, thanks.
>
> Kind regards,
>
> Aurelia

Thank you so much for your reply.  I think I have been too drastic with my diet
cutting out almost all fats thinking it would help my skin.  I am looking
forward to a nice big omlet in the morning an some potatoes.
I am doing more yogurt, I wonder if the frozen ones count.  Its weird everyone
is trying to lose weight and I'm trying to gain it. I'm 5'7" and I only weigh
120.  My husband called me a bag of bones.  He desperatly needs to go to charm
school.
One other thing.  I was drinking a glass or two of organic red wine or a beer to
calm my nerves.  You see I have three small children.  My doctor said the red
wine and spicy food was bad for my rosacia.  I haven't had a drink in three days
to see if there's an improvement.

________________________________
From: Courtney Deines-Jones <cdeinesj@...>
To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thu, November 19, 2009 4:16:38 AM
Subject: Re: [rosacea] Z arteest

Fish is great, avocado is good, as is coconut. Both are high in saturated fat.
The things to avoid are oils that are high in Omega 6 fatty acids, like canola
oil and corn oil, etc.

It's harder for a vegetarian than a meat-eater, but if you can eat dairy and
eggs, do.Use butter and full fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. If you can afford it
or have access to a farmer's market, get milk and cheese from cows that have
been grass-fed and not grain-fed (they are higher in Omega-3). For eggs, get
ones from either pastured, grass-fed chickens (not the same as "free range" at
least in the U.S.) or get Omega-3 eggs.

I really do think my switch from low-fat to full-fat everything has made a huge
difference in my skin. And like I said I also lost a bunch of weight, so don't
believe those people who say you'll get fat if you eat fat. It ain't necessarily
so - it's the type of fat that matters.

Thanks for the kind words.  Take care.


Aurelia.Dawn wrote:
>
>
> Hi Russie,
>
> Please never apologise for asking questions, few or many. That is
> exactly what support boards are for.
>
> All members are welcome to post questions about whatever is troubling
> them, or whatever they are curious about, or want to share. We love it
> if they can also help other members, but we know that isn't always
> possible.
>
> Very best of luck with the adoption process. I'm sure you will make a
> lovely mother. :)
>
> Kind regards,
>
> Aurelia
>
>



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

You are sooo welcome! So great that Finacea is helping. My new derm says to mix
it with a tad of my moisturizer before applying morning and evening. I let it
soak in for a minute, then add another layer of moisturizer. I do this am and
pm. Usually that's enough moisture, but once in a while I pat on a layer over my
makeup mid-day. Now that it's getting colder and much more dry indoors, I have
to do this occasionally if I feel my skin getting tight during the day.

Cheers!

Artist

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "Gabriella" <gabri_gallo@...> wrote:
>
> Artist, thanks for your wonderful and thorough post!!!
>
> I was trying Finacea, but only sporadically because of the burning.  Since you
were finding it so helpful -- I decided to try more regularly and it really has
helped : )  Thanks!!!
>
> I want to encourage others to give it a good try (2-3 months).  Also, lotion
or cream can be applied underneath to reduce stinging, without reducing its
effectiveness.  If it stings a lot, I'd also recommend starting with only 1x a
day (at night actually).
>
> I have some a few more quesitons for you, but they will have to wait for
another day.
>
> Thanks, as always!
>
> Gabriella
>
> --- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "nurse_artist" <nurse_artist@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Russie:  I do not mind at all. This is a place for lots of questions, and
worrying too much about what others think gets in the way of being yourself,
don't you think?  Quoting the great philosopher, Ellen Degeneres, "I want other
people to like me, but not at my expense". So, my first bit of advice in helping
your rosacea is to de-stress. Stress is, in fact, listed next to sunlight as a
rosacea trigger.
> >
> > I can tell I'm going to go on and on, so here is my current routine I am
extremely pleased with:
> >
> > Cetaphil gentle cleansing bar (not the antibacterial one), am & pm
> > Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, am & pm
> > Finacea, am & pm
> > Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer SPF 20 (in the brown tube) am
> > Oracea, am
> > Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer for uneven spots if needed. am
> > IPL once per year or year and a half
> > Red Light two or three times per week
> > Reacting better to stress
> > Avoid spicy food, certain alcohols, tomato, and a few other foods
> >
> > I occasionally pamper my skin with some homemade mixes, but I do great on
just the above, which is a good thing with my busy schedule!
> >
> > You asked: 1- How did you get your flushing/redness under control?
> > I think a lot of things. Finally figuring out that I HAD to moisturize my
dry skin with a real, OTC moisturizer was probably the number one thing. Also, I
used Atenolol to control blushing from social situations for about ten years. I
was able to stop using it only after reading some books that helped me in those
situations. One key one was a book by Wayne Dyer called "You will see it when
you believe it". It made me realize that, unless something is truly is an
emergency, I don't need to internally react as if it is. For example, standing
in a line or waiting in traffic need not skyrocket my blood pressure. The same
goes for speeches, interviews, etc. Or, not to worry too much about the little
mistakes we all make. My rosacea, and my whole life really, improved after I
realized there is no reason to be too worried about how other people might view
us. There are lots of books on changing your thought process, and this was a
great one for me.
> >
> > So, that's how I stopped Atenolol. For ten solid years, though, Atenolol
really did help the blushing. My doctor prescribed 12.5mg per day for me, and it
worked fine.
> >
> > Non prescription methods for me have included Red Light therapy and Intense
Pulsed Light. I go to Dr. Coor at Idalis Medical Spa in Olympia Washington. I go
once a year now, and I drive two hours to get there because they really are that
good. Saw Palmetto, one in the evening and one baby aspirin in the morning has
also been effective for flushing. With the Finacea lately, though, I have been
able to stop both the Saw Palmetto and the aspirin. I do take fish oil twice per
day, which I will continue with long term. It helps with inflammation. I also
had good luck mixing my own anti-inflammatory concoctions. Moisturizer with
powdered licorice, for example.
> >
> > You asked: 2- You have mentioned finacea. How did it help your skin? Less
redness, skin more tolerant? How do you use it? I have been using Noritate for
four years with little success.
> >
> > Well it seems to me that Finacea is the new favorite among derms, and I
think for good reason. I wish I had tried it ages ago, but I think it only came
out a few years ago. Anyway, I used noritate and the metros off and on and never
really got relief with them. For me, the Finacea was amazing, though. It did all
of what you asked above: less redness, skin more tolerant, less flushing and
blushing, less sensitivity, and hardly any breakouts. I eat lots of wheat and
many things I never would touch before. It's been a great topical for me and
allowed me to simplify my routine immensely. The first two or three weeks are 
hard because the skin needs to adjust. I very nearly stopped it because my face
felt like it was on fire and breaking out, but the receptionist from my derm's
office encouraged me and I made it through.
> >
> > You asked: 3- You mentioned LED. I actually have a generic one that my
friend gave me which is just called 660nm Red LED Array. How do you use it and
what does it do for your skin?
> >
> > I use one that  has both red and infrared bulbs in it. It's from
acnelamp.com. After about two months, my skin was just less pink overall, with a
more even appearance.
> >
> > You asked: 4- You mentioned you have really dry skin (so do I). My current
derm thinks dry skin is contributing to my flushes and the overall appearance of
my skin. YES, PROBABLY
> > She had suggested Elidel, Pyratine XR, then CeraVe. I think I asked you
about that before---What has helped your dry skin the most?
> > She also wants me to start using a mild salicylic acid every 10 days or so
to help with removing dead skin so the creams can have more effect.
> >
> > I dry skin can make rosacea soooo bad. Expect to go through some stinging
and adjustment as you get your skin moisturized again. My favorite is Vanicream
Moisturizing Skin cream from Walgreens (in the round tub), but other good ones
are cerave and I think lancome has a really basic one I was tempted to try at
one point. Cerave broke me out in regular acne for some reason, but others seem
to do well with it. If I could use Cerave I would, since it is soooo incredibly
moisturizing all day. I recommend deciding to find a good moisturizer no matter
how many you have to try, and using it two or three times a day.
> >
> > You asked: 5- I have tried IPL and Vbeam with little success. I am very
scared that I am one of the 10% who cannot be helped by lasers, which makes me
feel a bit hopeless. They really help so many people with rosacea, but don't
seem to help me much.
> >
> > It could be that your dry skin and inflammation are really getting in the
way. Once my skin was well moisturized and improved with finacea and oracea, Dr.
Coor said he couldn't believe how much better my vessels looked. One quick
treatment, instead of a whole face with twice as many zaps, was more effective,
and all I really needed.
> >
> > If your skin still doesn't respond, then please do not worry. There are
endless things to try.....did I mention Finacea?  ;)
> >
> > You asked: 6- What have you found to be effective against redness, broken
caps, and hyperpigmentation (if you have any of these problems)?
> >
> > IPL. It even gets brown spots and scars. Mixing powdered caffeine into
moisturizer can do the trick, but can be drying used long term and you  have to
consider rebound redness if you use it long term. Another quick fix for me has
been to take phenylepherine cold medicine. It's used to decongest the sinuses
when they are clogged. It constricts blood vessels in that area, and for me, on
my whole face. Again, because of rebound, I don't use it more than one or two
days at a time. I tend to flare up about six days before starting my period for
just a few days, so I occasionally use a phenylepherine at that time if I think
of it. I have indoor and seasonal allergies, so my sinuses always benefit from
it, anyway. Be careful to read the insert and ask your doctor first, especially
if you have any heart conditions or arrhythmias.
> >
> > You asked:  7- I am still searching for a good makeup. I know you use LM
Tinted, but it isn't enough coverage for me right now. Mineral makeup also
doesn't work for me, just accentuates my facial dryness.
> > Any suggestions from other posters?
> >
> > You could mix a tad of Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer with the Laura
Mercier. This will add the coverage since it's a concealer. A little goes a long
way, so the little tube lasts many months for me.
> > This way you still get your sun protection.
> >
> > Sunscreen is a must, every day.
> >
> > Hope that helps!
> >
> > Cheers!
> >
> > Artist
> > Not medical advice. Ask your doctor first.
> >
>

Diane,

I found this interesting about the Clear5 supplement for acne.  Vitamin B5 is
critical for recovery from adrenal fatigue/exhaustion, which I have been reading
about.  Also, my derm. said I have adult acne; maybe these are related?  Just
curious:  did you purchase Clear5 at a store or is it only available online?  I
couldn't tell from their website.  I thought I'd ask at Whole Foods if they can
order it for me to try.

Also, have you tried salicylic acid instead of the BHA?  I was using some
Clearasil wipes (sal. acid) on my face last spring and I really thought they
helped, but my new derm. said salicylic acid can go either way with rosacea
(sometimes helpful, sometimes harmful) so she didn't want me to use it right
now.  Anyway, just something else to consider.

Beth

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, diane Wickersheim <dianewickersheim@...>
wrote:
>
> Artist
> thanks for your input on the seabuckthorn oil.  I just think oil does not
agree with my skin.  I have this problem with jojoba oil too.
> Maybe my cleanser which is by Boots does not work well with the oil as it is
thick and emollient.  I gave the seabuckthorn oil 6 days
> gave it up.  In hindsight I should have started more slowly.  I'm back to
using my oil free gel moisturizer by Peter Thomas Roth. Its very light and
soothing but sometimes doenst moisturize very well.  My whitehead issue has been
with me for 2 years now.  It doenst seem
> to be triggered by food or a flare but more of a topical thing. I'm so
confused on how to treat my skin when its oily on the surface, hence the
improper shedding of my skin and build up of sebum, and how dry and flakey it is
after I wash.  I dont know what to treat first.
> I have plugged along for so many years trying products its exhausing.  I dont
know what I would do with all my extra time had I have normal skin.
> Right now my routine is:
> 2 50mg of Doxy a day,
> 2 500 mg Amoxicillian for a sinus infection,
> 2 Nicotinamide vitamins a day
> I'm using Finacea sparingly on the few pimples I have and Paulas Choice 1%BHA
on my chin area and nose to control oil buildup and whiteheads.
> If u can think of anything else that might be beneficial I would appreciate
it.  I also found an oily skin reducer that is in liquid form called Clear5
vitamin B5 treatment by Acne-vitamins.com  It is suppose to reduce oily
production from the inside out naturally.  It contains 2,000 mg of pantothenic
acid, 50mcg off Biotin, 20mcg of Chromium 20 mcg of Selenium, and 2.4mg of Zinc
Oxide.  What are your thoughts on this?
>
> Thanks so much for your expertise.
>
> Diane
>

Hi Aurelia et al .... do you know to what extent the causes of rosacea are been
researched ?

It seems to me that not much advance has been made over the last decade with
respect to treatments.

I know there is a Rosacea Foundation in the US but its funding is very small.

In particular does anyone know if research is been conducted in australia ?

Cheers

Thanks for the reply and the information.  Take care.


nurse_artist wrote:
>
>
> Hi Russie: I do not mind at all. This is a place for lots of
> questions, and worrying too much about what others think gets in the
> way of being yourself, don't you think? Quoting the great philosopher,
> Ellen Degeneres, "I want other people to like me, but not at my
> expense". So, my first bit of advice in helping your rosacea is to
> de-stress. Stress is, in fact, listed next to sunlight as a rosacea
> trigger.
>
> I can tell I'm going to go on and on, so here is my current routine I
> am extremely pleased with:
>
> Cetaphil gentle cleansing bar (not the antibacterial one), am & pm
> Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, am & pm
> Finacea, am & pm
> Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer SPF 20 (in the brown tube) am
> Oracea, am
> Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer for uneven spots if needed. am
> IPL once per year or year and a half
> Red Light two or three times per week
> Reacting better to stress
> Avoid spicy food, certain alcohols, tomato, and a few other foods
>
> I occasionally pamper my skin with some homemade mixes, but I do great
> on just the above, which is a good thing with my busy schedule!
>
> You asked: 1- How did you get your flushing/redness under control?
> I think a lot of things. Finally figuring out that I HAD to moisturize
> my dry skin with a real, OTC moisturizer was probably the number one
> thing. Also, I used Atenolol to control blushing from social
> situations for about ten years. I was able to stop using it only after
> reading some books that helped me in those situations. One key one was
> a book by Wayne Dyer called "You will see it when you believe it". It
> made me realize that, unless something is truly is an emergency, I
> don't need to internally react as if it is. For example, standing in a
> line or waiting in traffic need not skyrocket my blood pressure. The
> same goes for speeches, interviews, etc. Or, not to worry too much
> about the little mistakes we all make. My rosacea, and my whole life
> really, improved after I realized there is no reason to be too worried
> about how other people might view us. There are lots of books on
> changing your thought process, and this was a great one for me.
>
> So, that's how I stopped Atenolol. For ten solid years, though,
> Atenolol really did help the blushing. My doctor prescribed 12.5mg per
> day for me, and it worked fine.
>
> Non prescription methods for me have included Red Light therapy and
> Intense Pulsed Light. I go to Dr. Coor at Idalis Medical Spa in
> Olympia Washington. I go once a year now, and I drive two hours to get
> there because they really are that good. Saw Palmetto, one in the
> evening and one baby aspirin in the morning has also been effective
> for flushing. With the Finacea lately, though, I have been able to
> stop both the Saw Palmetto and the aspirin. I do take fish oil twice
> per day, which I will continue with long term. It helps with
> inflammation. I also had good luck mixing my own anti-inflammatory
> concoctions. Moisturizer with powdered licorice, for example.
>
> You asked: 2- You have mentioned finacea. How did it help your skin?
> Less redness, skin more tolerant? How do you use it? I have been using
> Noritate for four years with little success.
>
> Well it seems to me that Finacea is the new favorite among derms, and
> I think for good reason. I wish I had tried it ages ago, but I think
> it only came out a few years ago. Anyway, I used noritate and the
> metros off and on and never really got relief with them. For me, the
> Finacea was amazing, though. It did all of what you asked above: less
> redness, skin more tolerant, less flushing and blushing, less
> sensitivity, and hardly any breakouts. I eat lots of wheat and many
> things I never would touch before. It's been a great topical for me
> and allowed me to simplify my routine immensely. The first two or
> three weeks are hard because the skin needs to adjust. I very nearly
> stopped it because my face felt like it was on fire and breaking out,
> but the receptionist from my derm's office encouraged me and I made it
> through.
>
> You asked: 3- You mentioned LED. I actually have a generic one that my
> friend gave me which is just called 660nm Red LED Array. How do you
> use it and what does it do for your skin?
>
> I use one that has both red and infrared bulbs in it. It's from
> acnelamp.com. After about two months, my skin was just less pink
> overall, with a more even appearance.
>
> You asked: 4- You mentioned you have really dry skin (so do I). My
> current derm thinks dry skin is contributing to my flushes and the
> overall appearance of my skin. YES, PROBABLY
> She had suggested Elidel, Pyratine XR, then CeraVe. I think I asked
> you about that before---What has helped your dry skin the most?
> She also wants me to start using a mild salicylic acid every 10 days
> or so to help with removing dead skin so the creams can have more effect.
>
> I dry skin can make rosacea soooo bad. Expect to go through some
> stinging and adjustment as you get your skin moisturized again. My
> favorite is Vanicream Moisturizing Skin cream from Walgreens (in the
> round tub), but other good ones are cerave and I think lancome has a
> really basic one I was tempted to try at one point. Cerave broke me
> out in regular acne for some reason, but others seem to do well with
> it. If I could use Cerave I would, since it is soooo incredibly
> moisturizing all day. I recommend deciding to find a good moisturizer
> no matter how many you have to try, and using it two or three times a day.
>
> You asked: 5- I have tried IPL and Vbeam with little success. I am
> very scared that I am one of the 10% who cannot be helped by lasers,
> which makes me feel a bit hopeless. They really help so many people
> with rosacea, but don't seem to help me much.
>
> It could be that your dry skin and inflammation are really getting in
> the way. Once my skin was well moisturized and improved with finacea
> and oracea, Dr. Coor said he couldn't believe how much better my
> vessels looked. One quick treatment, instead of a whole face with
> twice as many zaps, was more effective, and all I really needed.
>
> If your skin still doesn't respond, then please do not worry. There
> are endless things to try.....did I mention Finacea? ;)
>
> You asked: 6- What have you found to be effective against redness,
> broken caps, and hyperpigmentation (if you have any of these problems)?
>
> IPL. It even gets brown spots and scars. Mixing powdered caffeine into
> moisturizer can do the trick, but can be drying used long term and you
> have to consider rebound redness if you use it long term. Another
> quick fix for me has been to take phenylepherine cold medicine. It's
> used to decongest the sinuses when they are clogged. It constricts
> blood vessels in that area, and for me, on my whole face. Again,
> because of rebound, I don't use it more than one or two days at a
> time. I tend to flare up about six days before starting my period for
> just a few days, so I occasionally use a phenylepherine at that time
> if I think of it. I have indoor and seasonal allergies, so my sinuses
> always benefit from it, anyway. Be careful to read the insert and ask
> your doctor first, especially if you have any heart conditions or
> arrhythmias.
>
> You asked: 7- I am still searching for a good makeup. I know you use
> LM Tinted, but it isn't enough coverage for me right now. Mineral
> makeup also doesn't work for me, just accentuates my facial dryness.
> Any suggestions from other posters?
>
> You could mix a tad of Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer with the
> Laura Mercier. This will add the coverage since it's a concealer. A
> little goes a long way, so the little tube lasts many months for me.
> This way you still get your sun protection.
>
> Sunscreen is a must, every day.
>
> Hope that helps!
>
> Cheers!
>
> Artist
> Not medical advice. Ask your doctor first.
>
>



[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Welcome, CJ ("supasecretsista")!

Sorry for your diagnosis of rosacea, and for the fact that you are currently in
a flare.

Does lowering the room temperature help you at all? Are your symptoms worse when
you wake up in the morning, or towards the end of the day?

You are right in being wary of steroids. As you may already know, some rosaceans
find that a holistic approach and better diet can bring about major
improvements, although some prefer to combine them at least initially with
Western medicine (eg antibiotics) to bring symptoms under control as quickly as
possible, IF they happen to work.

> I now seem to have a flare-up whenever the weather changes too much and/or
stress levels go up. <

Stress and weather changes are extremely common triggers, alas. Have you seen
these pages from the National Rosacea Society?:

http://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/triggersindex.php
http://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/triggers.php
http://www.rosacea.org/patients/materials/triggersgraph.php

The latter page deals with a survey of 1066 patients (a real Norman number ;)
and found that most rosaceans reported flares from weather factors:  sun
exposure 81%, hot weather 75%, wind 57%, cold weather 46%, and humidity 44%.
Emotional stress scored 79%.

> I have two questions for you. First, do you find that barometric pressure is
ever a factor in your personal rosacea experience? <

It does occasionally trigger migraines, but never my rosacea. It would be very
interesting to hear from others about this.

> Second, have you ever tried acupuncture? <

No.

Kind regards,

Aurelia

I too have had about 20 ipls over the years and they are the only relief I
have.  The last 3 treatments have been with Vasculight and the Lumenis 1. 
Lumenis makes a huge difference for me.
 
Aimee

--- On Fri, 11/20/09, cutie567 wrote:

Hi everyone,
I want to thank you all for help and I used some of the suggestions and got some
relief, Again, thank you I can always count on you guys.

I been getting IPL since i was diagnosed in 2005. I had many maybe around 20
over the years. I can say it is the only thing that helped me with the Rosacea.
I live in New York I go to New Jersey for treatment. I would look where you are
I am sure they do it. I am not sure on the treatment they use or machine I know
they got another one but I am going in two week and will find out for you.

Hi mumscat,

Please see my reply to you here:

http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/rosacea-support/message/104906

Kind regards,

Aurelia

Hi mumscat, and welcome to the RSG!

I'm a moderator, and you might have noticed that I wrote a mini intro to your
second post because there was a little technical glitch when you hit the Send
button. It doesn't take long to get the hang of posting and I'm sure you will
find this a VERY friendly group. :)

Yes, red cheeks are the usual first sign for most rosaceans, and you are very
wise to tackle it early on.

Regarding IPL -

> are you allowed to tell us the name of the company --or is this banned in case
it is advertising? <

We are happy for members to post the names of treatments they use, including
brand names for medications and cosmeceuticals, or makes of the different kinds
of light therapy, including lasers, IPL (intense pulsed light), RLT (red light
therapy), or whatever.

We don't accept spam or defamatory remarks, but it is usually very easy to spot
the difference, so please don't hesitate to use names, if you wish.

> Can I email cutie567 ...? <

Generally, support boards encourage discussions ON the board rather off so
helpful advice can benefit ALL readers, rather than just one at a time. Also,
some members aren't keen on receiving private messages unless they have already
come to know someone well and have suggested switching to emails and/or phone
calls.

> Someone has just told me of a clinic I can use and said I should look at
http://www.pulselightclinic.co.uk for rosacea treatment ... I suppose there are
lots of clinics, so how do I know which one to choose? <

Yes, there are many clinics. As a rough rule of thumb, the more experience the
user of a machine has, the greater the chances of success.

> Maybe we could have somewhere where people could give scores out of 10 for
their treatments? <

Andrew Reid set up just such a site a few years ago:
http://www.rosacea.co.uk/

If you are in the UK and considering that particular clinic, I didn't spot any
reviews in our archived posts, but did see two on Andrew's site:

"Lisa M" was "very happy with the results", regarding the clinic as "definitely
worth trying out". Treatment performed by a nurse.
http://www.rosacea.co.uk/rosacea-treatment-id7189.html

"Steve" was also very impressed with the clinic. However, he twice referred to
being personally treated by the hands of the doctor who runs the clinic, then
said that the treatments were performed by the nurse.
http://www.rosacea.co.uk/rosacea-photoderm-treatment-id2797.html

Kind regards, and best of luck,

Aurelia

--------------------------------

mumscat wrote:

I am new to this group -- so I apologise if I don't do things right!. I have
just started with red cheeks, and so things are not too bad for me at the
moment, but I know it will get worse -- I know you will know how I will feel
when this happens --I am trying to stop it at this early stage, cutie567"
<Glew18@ said they were getting in touch with IPL --can you say if this worked,
and are you allowed to tell us the name of the company --or is this banned in
case it is advertising? Can I email cutie567 --what does it mean Glew18@  is it
@yahoo.com?

----------------

[Continuation of first message]

Someone has just told me of a clinic I can use and said I should look at
http://www.pulselightclinic.co.uk for rosacea treatment --and that it may stop
it from getting worse -- I suppose there are lots of clinics, so how do I know
which one to choose? Maybe we could have somewhere where people could give
scores out of 10 for their treatments?

Artist
thanks for your input on the seabuckthorn oil.  I just think oil does not agree
with my skin.  I have this problem with jojoba oil too.
Maybe my cleanser which is by Boots does not work well with the oil as it is
thick and emollient.  I gave the seabuckthorn oil 6 days
gave it up.  In hindsight I should have started more slowly.  I'm back to using
my oil free gel moisturizer by Peter Thomas Roth. Its very light and soothing
but sometimes doenst moisturize very well.  My whitehead issue has been with me
for 2 years now.  It doenst seem
to be triggered by food or a flare but more of a topical thing. I'm so confused
on how to treat my skin when its oily on the surface, hence the improper
shedding of my skin and build up of sebum, and how dry and flakey it is after I
wash.  I dont know what to treat first.
I have plugged along for so many years trying products its exhausing.  I dont
know what I would do with all my extra time had I have normal skin.
Right now my routine is:
2 50mg of Doxy a day,
2 500 mg Amoxicillian for a sinus infection,
2 Nicotinamide vitamins a day
I'm using Finacea sparingly on the few pimples I have and Paulas Choice 1%BHA on
my chin area and nose to control oil buildup and whiteheads.
If u can think of anything else that might be beneficial I would appreciate it. 
I also found an oily skin reducer that is in liquid form called Clear5 vitamin
B5 treatment by Acne-vitamins.com  It is suppose to reduce oily production from
the inside out naturally.  It contains 2,000 mg of pantothenic acid, 50mcg off
Biotin, 20mcg of Chromium 20 mcg of Selenium, and 2.4mg of Zinc Oxide.  What are
your thoughts on this?

Thanks so much for your expertise.

Diane

Hi everyone,
I want to thank you all for help and I used some of the suggestions and got some
relief, Again, thank you I can always count on you guys.

I been getting IPL since i was diagnosed in 2005. I had many maybe around 20
over the years. I can say it is the only thing that helped me with the Rosacea.
I live in New York I go to New Jersey for treatment. I would look where you are
I am sure they do it. I am not sure on the treatment they use or machine I know
they got another one but I am going in two week and will find out for you.


--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "mumscat" <mumscat@...> wrote:
>
> [Continuation of first message]
>
>
> Someone has just told me of a clinic I can use and said I should look at
www.pulselightclinic.co.uk for rosacea treatment --and that it may stop it from
getting worse -- I suppose there are lots of clinics, so how do I know which one
to choose? Maybe we could have somewhere where people could give scores out of
10  for their treatments?
>

Artist, thanks for your wonderful and thorough post!!!

I was trying Finacea, but only sporadically because of the burning.  Since you
were finding it so helpful -- I decided to try more regularly and it really has
helped : )  Thanks!!!

I want to encourage others to give it a good try (2-3 months).  Also, lotion or
cream can be applied underneath to reduce stinging, without reducing its
effectiveness.  If it stings a lot, I'd also recommend starting with only 1x a
day (at night actually).

I have some a few more quesitons for you, but they will have to wait for another
day.

Thanks, as always!

Gabriella

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "nurse_artist" <nurse_artist@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Russie:  I do not mind at all. This is a place for lots of questions, and
worrying too much about what others think gets in the way of being yourself,
don't you think?  Quoting the great philosopher, Ellen Degeneres, "I want other
people to like me, but not at my expense". So, my first bit of advice in helping
your rosacea is to de-stress. Stress is, in fact, listed next to sunlight as a
rosacea trigger.
>
> I can tell I'm going to go on and on, so here is my current routine I am
extremely pleased with:
>
> Cetaphil gentle cleansing bar (not the antibacterial one), am & pm
> Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, am & pm
> Finacea, am & pm
> Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer SPF 20 (in the brown tube) am
> Oracea, am
> Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer for uneven spots if needed. am
> IPL once per year or year and a half
> Red Light two or three times per week
> Reacting better to stress
> Avoid spicy food, certain alcohols, tomato, and a few other foods
>
> I occasionally pamper my skin with some homemade mixes, but I do great on just
the above, which is a good thing with my busy schedule!
>
> You asked: 1- How did you get your flushing/redness under control?
> I think a lot of things. Finally figuring out that I HAD to moisturize my dry
skin with a real, OTC moisturizer was probably the number one thing. Also, I
used Atenolol to control blushing from social situations for about ten years. I
was able to stop using it only after reading some books that helped me in those
situations. One key one was a book by Wayne Dyer called "You will see it when
you believe it". It made me realize that, unless something is truly is an
emergency, I don't need to internally react as if it is. For example, standing
in a line or waiting in traffic need not skyrocket my blood pressure. The same
goes for speeches, interviews, etc. Or, not to worry too much about the little
mistakes we all make. My rosacea, and my whole life really, improved after I
realized there is no reason to be too worried about how other people might view
us. There are lots of books on changing your thought process, and this was a
great one for me.
>
> So, that's how I stopped Atenolol. For ten solid years, though, Atenolol
really did help the blushing. My doctor prescribed 12.5mg per day for me, and it
worked fine.
>
> Non prescription methods for me have included Red Light therapy and Intense
Pulsed Light. I go to Dr. Coor at Idalis Medical Spa in Olympia Washington. I go
once a year now, and I drive two hours to get there because they really are that
good. Saw Palmetto, one in the evening and one baby aspirin in the morning has
also been effective for flushing. With the Finacea lately, though, I have been
able to stop both the Saw Palmetto and the aspirin. I do take fish oil twice per
day, which I will continue with long term. It helps with inflammation. I also
had good luck mixing my own anti-inflammatory concoctions. Moisturizer with
powdered licorice, for example.
>
> You asked: 2- You have mentioned finacea. How did it help your skin? Less
redness, skin more tolerant? How do you use it? I have been using Noritate for
four years with little success.
>
> Well it seems to me that Finacea is the new favorite among derms, and I think
for good reason. I wish I had tried it ages ago, but I think it only came out a
few years ago. Anyway, I used noritate and the metros off and on and never
really got relief with them. For me, the Finacea was amazing, though. It did all
of what you asked above: less redness, skin more tolerant, less flushing and
blushing, less sensitivity, and hardly any breakouts. I eat lots of wheat and
many things I never would touch before. It's been a great topical for me and
allowed me to simplify my routine immensely. The first two or three weeks are 
hard because the skin needs to adjust. I very nearly stopped it because my face
felt like it was on fire and breaking out, but the receptionist from my derm's
office encouraged me and I made it through.
>
> You asked: 3- You mentioned LED. I actually have a generic one that my friend
gave me which is just called 660nm Red LED Array. How do you use it and what
does it do for your skin?
>
> I use one that  has both red and infrared bulbs in it. It's from acnelamp.com.
After about two months, my skin was just less pink overall, with a more even
appearance.
>
> You asked: 4- You mentioned you have really dry skin (so do I). My current
derm thinks dry skin is contributing to my flushes and the overall appearance of
my skin. YES, PROBABLY
> She had suggested Elidel, Pyratine XR, then CeraVe. I think I asked you about
that before---What has helped your dry skin the most?
> She also wants me to start using a mild salicylic acid every 10 days or so to
help with removing dead skin so the creams can have more effect.
>
> I dry skin can make rosacea soooo bad. Expect to go through some stinging and
adjustment as you get your skin moisturized again. My favorite is Vanicream
Moisturizing Skin cream from Walgreens (in the round tub), but other good ones
are cerave and I think lancome has a really basic one I was tempted to try at
one point. Cerave broke me out in regular acne for some reason, but others seem
to do well with it. If I could use Cerave I would, since it is soooo incredibly
moisturizing all day. I recommend deciding to find a good moisturizer no matter
how many you have to try, and using it two or three times a day.
>
> You asked: 5- I have tried IPL and Vbeam with little success. I am very scared
that I am one of the 10% who cannot be helped by lasers, which makes me feel a
bit hopeless. They really help so many people with rosacea, but don't seem to
help me much.
>
> It could be that your dry skin and inflammation are really getting in the way.
Once my skin was well moisturized and improved with finacea and oracea, Dr. Coor
said he couldn't believe how much better my vessels looked. One quick treatment,
instead of a whole face with twice as many zaps, was more effective, and all I
really needed.
>
> If your skin still doesn't respond, then please do not worry. There are
endless things to try.....did I mention Finacea?  ;)
>
> You asked: 6- What have you found to be effective against redness, broken
caps, and hyperpigmentation (if you have any of these problems)?
>
> IPL. It even gets brown spots and scars. Mixing powdered caffeine into
moisturizer can do the trick, but can be drying used long term and you  have to
consider rebound redness if you use it long term. Another quick fix for me has
been to take phenylepherine cold medicine. It's used to decongest the sinuses
when they are clogged. It constricts blood vessels in that area, and for me, on
my whole face. Again, because of rebound, I don't use it more than one or two
days at a time. I tend to flare up about six days before starting my period for
just a few days, so I occasionally use a phenylepherine at that time if I think
of it. I have indoor and seasonal allergies, so my sinuses always benefit from
it, anyway. Be careful to read the insert and ask your doctor first, especially
if you have any heart conditions or arrhythmias.
>
> You asked:  7- I am still searching for a good makeup. I know you use LM
Tinted, but it isn't enough coverage for me right now. Mineral makeup also
doesn't work for me, just accentuates my facial dryness.
> Any suggestions from other posters?
>
> You could mix a tad of Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer with the Laura
Mercier. This will add the coverage since it's a concealer. A little goes a long
way, so the little tube lasts many months for me.
> This way you still get your sun protection.
>
> Sunscreen is a must, every day.
>
> Hope that helps!
>
> Cheers!
>
> Artist
> Not medical advice. Ask your doctor first.
>

Interesting, Diane.  When I visited my derm this week, she mentioned an
encouraging trial using a high blood pressure medicine.  All recipients have
requested to stay on drug resulting in success with Rosacea, but because it
hasn't been approved yet, derm would not divulge name of drug.  If you are
having so much success with Clonidine, it's possible that this is the drug they
are testing.  Derm was very excited about positive results.

Betty L.



________________________________
From: diane Wickersheim <dianewickersheim@...>
To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Sat, November 7, 2009 6:27:48 AM
Subject: Re: [rosacea] cynosure cynergy


I can tell you Clonidine has saved me from flusing. I already have high blood
pressure so it wasnt a problem getting the medication. It really works to avoid
flushing.
My derm will not perscribe the remeron which I heard works well with the
Clonidine.
Get your dr. to perscribe for you..its a godsend

diane

____________ _________ _________ __
From: Janine <janines4boys@ yahoo.com>
To: rosacea-support@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Fri, November 6, 2009 1:18:00 PM
Subject: [rosacea] cynosure cynergy

hi again all. i just went to derm today for my flushing and he suggested
cynosure cynergy multiplex,,, ,,,, has anyone heard of this please he says there
is no side effects and he could possibly clear me up as i am very mild. he said
he will do a small test spot if i wish because i am neurtic as u can tell.
anyone have good exp or bad wxp weith this........ ......... . this rosacea has
taken over my life, my husbands life and my poor little children, i cant stop
looking in the mirror

anyone know good drs in Ny or NYc

please help im desperate i will spend every pennie i have which isnt much to
help my sanity is more valuable.

also he tried to tell me to use fianaca what do you think how long to get rid of
the little pimples.

and he wont give me remeron clonidine or propanol he does not want to mess with
systemic feels there are too many side effects but my gp said whatever i want he
will give so any suggestions would greatly be apprieciated

i am using dermo cleanser, clarisonic which i think is bringing out problems but
hopefully it will go away and toleraine moisdtureizer.

i am very self concious and do not want to go in public everyone willstatre at
me

please help






[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi Russie,

Please never apologise for asking questions, few or many. That is exactly what
support boards are for.

All members are welcome to post questions about whatever is troubling them, or
whatever they are curious about, or want to share. We love it if they can also
help other members, but we know that isn't always possible.

Very best of luck with the adoption process. I'm sure you will make a lovely
mother. :)

Kind regards,

Aurelia

Hello supersista,
I am all about the holistic.  I am trying to take certain things out of my diet
to see if there is a change.  I did drink re wine usually organic but it did
make me flush pretty bad one time.  I love spicy thai food with tofu.  Don't get
me started...  I went out to sweet tomatos and had the salad bar.  I'm pretty
skinny so I don't want to take out all the carbs.  Do you have problems with
wheat?  What do you use to cleanse your skin?
  I'm going to try murad oh oh thats not holistic.  Well my friend who is an
estitician works with the product.  I just tried pevonia and it made me break
out.  This really stinks....



________________________________
From: supasecretsista <supa.secret.sista@...>
To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thu, November 19, 2009 3:49:13 PM
Subject: [rosacea] Introduction & Thanks

 
Hello. I have recently been diagnosed with rosacea, though no thanks to my PCP.
The onset of my symptoms - flushing, some swelling (occasionally severe) around
the nose and eyes, burning skin, blood vessels, etc. has come on gradually for
the last four years. I now seem to have a flare-up whenever the weather changes
too much and/or stress levels go up. I have already read many of your posts and
I appreciate your feedback and support... in advance!

I am convinced that the body is able to regulate itself if given optimal room
and if we take care of ourselves, though it's harder when we're consistently
exposed to toxins and other things, like it or not. I am a classic "not take
proper care of herself" gal but I have been making changes in diet and
applications and this helps a bit. I also try to take a holistic approach to
wellness, examining more traditional/ homeopathic remedies in addition to
western solutions. My PCP's solution is to smother everything in steroids and he
couldn't "determine" why my skin kept breaking out... It's NOT allergies, not my
skin products, not my laundry detergent, not my "etcetera," as I am sure you may
have been frustrated with at the onset of your symptoms!

Of course I joined because I am in the midst of a flare and I am currently very
swelled, despite sleeping with a wedge and pillows at night. I have two
questions for you. First, do you find that barometric pressure is ever a factor
in your personal rosacea experience? Second, have you ever tried acupuncture? I
am going to try acupuncture for another health consideration, but I am going to
consult with the practitioner re: skin conditions as well.

Thanks in advance all.

CJ from Michigan

yes I do drink 1/2 caffenated coffee.  I have two cups in the morning and it
doenst induce a flush. If I have it in the afternoon it definetly will.  i dont
drink alcohol at all. I see you mentioned Aveeda Sensitive line. I tried it over
the summer and initially like their products. It made my skin soft and not
irritated but by summers end it was too thick and emollient for me.  Its
probably something i should of tried in the winter months.


________________________________
From: Elizabeth Govreau <elizabethgov@...>
To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Thu, November 19, 2009 2:08:18 AM
Subject: Re: [rosacea] hi diane
 
I'm using Pevonia. It is supposed to be for Rosacia. It made my skin break out a
little but it does seem softer.  I was using Aveda's sensitive skin line
before.  I think I might go back to that and send this stuff back but I'll give
it a little more time.  Let me know how the Laser works out.
Do you drink alcohol or coffee?  I heard they could agrivate your skin.

Hi Russie:  I do not mind at all. This is a place for lots of questions, and
worrying too much about what others think gets in the way of being yourself,
don't you think?  Quoting the great philosopher, Ellen Degeneres, "I want other
people to like me, but not at my expense". So, my first bit of advice in helping
your rosacea is to de-stress. Stress is, in fact, listed next to sunlight as a
rosacea trigger.

I can tell I'm going to go on and on, so here is my current routine I am
extremely pleased with:

Cetaphil gentle cleansing bar (not the antibacterial one), am & pm
Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, am & pm
Finacea, am & pm
Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer SPF 20 (in the brown tube) am
Oracea, am
Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer for uneven spots if needed. am
IPL once per year or year and a half
Red Light two or three times per week
Reacting better to stress
Avoid spicy food, certain alcohols, tomato, and a few other foods

I occasionally pamper my skin with some homemade mixes, but I do great on just
the above, which is a good thing with my busy schedule!

You asked: 1- How did you get your flushing/redness under control?
I think a lot of things. Finally figuring out that I HAD to moisturize my dry
skin with a real, OTC moisturizer was probably the number one thing. Also, I
used Atenolol to control blushing from social situations for about ten years. I
was able to stop using it only after reading some books that helped me in those
situations. One key one was a book by Wayne Dyer called "You will see it when
you believe it". It made me realize that, unless something is truly is an
emergency, I don't need to internally react as if it is. For example, standing
in a line or waiting in traffic need not skyrocket my blood pressure. The same
goes for speeches, interviews, etc. Or, not to worry too much about the little
mistakes we all make. My rosacea, and my whole life really, improved after I
realized there is no reason to be too worried about how other people might view
us. There are lots of books on changing your thought process, and this was a
great one for me.

So, that's how I stopped Atenolol. For ten solid years, though, Atenolol really
did help the blushing. My doctor prescribed 12.5mg per day for me, and it worked
fine.

Non prescription methods for me have included Red Light therapy and Intense
Pulsed Light. I go to Dr. Coor at Idalis Medical Spa in Olympia Washington. I go
once a year now, and I drive two hours to get there because they really are that
good. Saw Palmetto, one in the evening and one baby aspirin in the morning has
also been effective for flushing. With the Finacea lately, though, I have been
able to stop both the Saw Palmetto and the aspirin. I do take fish oil twice per
day, which I will continue with long term. It helps with inflammation. I also
had good luck mixing my own anti-inflammatory concoctions. Moisturizer with
powdered licorice, for example.

You asked: 2- You have mentioned finacea. How did it help your skin? Less
redness, skin more tolerant? How do you use it? I have been using Noritate for
four years with little success.

Well it seems to me that Finacea is the new favorite among derms, and I think
for good reason. I wish I had tried it ages ago, but I think it only came out a
few years ago. Anyway, I used noritate and the metros off and on and never
really got relief with them. For me, the Finacea was amazing, though. It did all
of what you asked above: less redness, skin more tolerant, less flushing and
blushing, less sensitivity, and hardly any breakouts. I eat lots of wheat and
many things I never would touch before. It's been a great topical for me and
allowed me to simplify my routine immensely. The first two or three weeks are 
hard because the skin needs to adjust. I very nearly stopped it because my face
felt like it was on fire and breaking out, but the receptionist from my derm's
office encouraged me and I made it through.

You asked: 3- You mentioned LED. I actually have a generic one that my friend
gave me which is just called 660nm Red LED Array. How do you use it and what
does it do for your skin?

I use one that  has both red and infrared bulbs in it. It's from acnelamp.com.
After about two months, my skin was just less pink overall, with a more even
appearance.

You asked: 4- You mentioned you have really dry skin (so do I). My current derm
thinks dry skin is contributing to my flushes and the overall appearance of my
skin. YES, PROBABLY
She had suggested Elidel, Pyratine XR, then CeraVe. I think I asked you about
that before---What has helped your dry skin the most?
She also wants me to start using a mild salicylic acid every 10 days or so to
help with removing dead skin so the creams can have more effect.

I dry skin can make rosacea soooo bad. Expect to go through some stinging and
adjustment as you get your skin moisturized again. My favorite is Vanicream
Moisturizing Skin cream from Walgreens (in the round tub), but other good ones
are cerave and I think lancome has a really basic one I was tempted to try at
one point. Cerave broke me out in regular acne for some reason, but others seem
to do well with it. If I could use Cerave I would, since it is soooo incredibly
moisturizing all day. I recommend deciding to find a good moisturizer no matter
how many you have to try, and using it two or three times a day.

You asked: 5- I have tried IPL and Vbeam with little success. I am very scared
that I am one of the 10% who cannot be helped by lasers, which makes me feel a
bit hopeless. They really help so many people with rosacea, but don't seem to
help me much.

It could be that your dry skin and inflammation are really getting in the way.
Once my skin was well moisturized and improved with finacea and oracea, Dr. Coor
said he couldn't believe how much better my vessels looked. One quick treatment,
instead of a whole face with twice as many zaps, was more effective, and all I
really needed.

If your skin still doesn't respond, then please do not worry. There are endless
things to try.....did I mention Finacea?  ;)

You asked: 6- What have you found to be effective against redness, broken caps,
and hyperpigmentation (if you have any of these problems)?

IPL. It even gets brown spots and scars. Mixing powdered caffeine into
moisturizer can do the trick, but can be drying used long term and you  have to
consider rebound redness if you use it long term. Another quick fix for me has
been to take phenylepherine cold medicine. It's used to decongest the sinuses
when they are clogged. It constricts blood vessels in that area, and for me, on
my whole face. Again, because of rebound, I don't use it more than one or two
days at a time. I tend to flare up about six days before starting my period for
just a few days, so I occasionally use a phenylepherine at that time if I think
of it. I have indoor and seasonal allergies, so my sinuses always benefit from
it, anyway. Be careful to read the insert and ask your doctor first, especially
if you have any heart conditions or arrhythmias.

You asked:  7- I am still searching for a good makeup. I know you use LM Tinted,
but it isn't enough coverage for me right now. Mineral makeup also doesn't work
for me, just accentuates my facial dryness.
Any suggestions from other posters?

You could mix a tad of Lancome Waterproof Undereye Concealer with the Laura
Mercier. This will add the coverage since it's a concealer. A little goes a long
way, so the little tube lasts many months for me.
This way you still get your sun protection.

Sunscreen is a must, every day.

Hope that helps!

Cheers!

Artist
Not medical advice. Ask your doctor first.

Hello. I have recently been diagnosed with rosacea, though no thanks to my PCP.
The onset of my symptoms - flushing, some swelling (occasionally severe) around
the nose and eyes, burning skin, blood vessels, etc. has come on gradually for
the last four years. I now seem to have a flare-up whenever the weather changes
too much and/or stress levels go up. I have already read many of your posts and
I appreciate your feedback and support... in advance!

I am convinced that the body is able to regulate itself if given optimal room
and if we take care of ourselves, though it's harder when we're consistently
exposed to toxins and other things, like it or not. I am a classic "not take
proper care of herself" gal but I have been making changes in diet and
applications and this helps a bit. I also try to take a holistic approach to
wellness, examining more traditional/homeopathic remedies in addition to western
solutions. My PCP's solution is to smother everything in steroids and he
couldn't "determine" why my skin kept breaking out... It's NOT allergies, not my
skin products, not my laundry detergent, not my "etcetera," as I am sure you may
have been frustrated with at the onset of your symptoms!

Of course I joined because I am in the midst of a flare and I am currently very
swelled, despite sleeping with a wedge and pillows at night. I have two
questions for you. First, do you find that barometric pressure is ever a factor
in your personal rosacea experience? Second, have you ever tried acupuncture?  I
am going to try acupuncture for another health consideration, but I am going to
consult with the practitioner re: skin conditions as well.

Thanks in advance all.

CJ from Michigan

Hi Janine:  ohhh that is very exciting! Now that I have a moisturizer I love, I
should experiment with some more mixes. Or not ,since my skin is doing so well.
ha ha!  I will mix vicariously though you.. he he he!

Each one comes with instructions on how much you add to your moisturzier. It's
really simple if you have a moisturizer, which you do. It was always complicated
for me because, at the time, I just wasn't using one, which is not good if you 
have dry rosacea skin. So, believing I couldn't use any OTC moisturizers, I had
to mix from scratch.

I'm not one for live chat, but I will try and check in more often.

It might be hard to resist, but I would give the Finacea at least two months
before adding your mixes. There are good reasons to do this. It will be helpful
to know what the Finacea does, and if you overlap new things and have a
reaction, you will have no idea what the culprit was and have to start from
scratch.

You might need a more moisturizing moisturuizer. Is the one you use pretty
light? The active ingredients can be drying becasue many are astringent (like
licorice), so you might have to moisturize a few extra times during the day.
Just pat a thin layer over top your makeup. Works fine..

All the best!

Artist
Not medical advice. Ask your doctor first.

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "Janine" <janines4boys@...> wrote:
>
> you seem like such a pro with all these concocktions(sp) so i ordered
>
> licorice
> hyaluronic acid
> egf
> green tea egcg
> for my capillaries
>
> so question do i just put a drop of my lotion which is toleraine by laroche
and then add a drop of licorice?  or do i have to add it to the whole bottle?
> and as far as the egf do i just put a drop on my face and rub it all in? same
goes for all the other stuff..
>  obvioulsy i will do one at a time for a week to see how it goes but i
shouldnt break out should i?
> by any chance do you live in NY?
> thank you so much for your info.
> can i put this stuff on before my finacea or after cause i think im going to
try it 2x a day. how often do u use it?
> do you ever do the live chat?  if we are on at the same time?
> talk to you soon
> thanks so much
> j
>

ive been using oatmeal ground in a blender and some glycerin i got from cvs
for about a week.  its the best cleanser ive ever used.  i tried just using
water by itself for a few days one time.  even that dried my skin out.  I have
had rosacea since a teen.  im now 26 years old.  so try it out if you got dry
skin with papules and pustules, and sporadic flushing, like me then you might
want  to try this stuff out.

[Continuation of first message]


Someone has just told me of a clinic I can use and said I should look at
www.pulselightclinic.co.uk for rosacea treatment --and that it may stop it from
getting worse -- I suppose there are lots of clinics, so how do I know which one
to choose? Maybe we could have somewhere where people could give scores out of
10  for their treatments?

I am new to this group -- so I apologise if I don't do things right!. I have
just started with red cheeks, and so things are not too bad for me at the
moment, but I know it will get worse -- I know you will know how I will feel
when this happens --I am trying to stop it at this early stage, cutie567"
<Glew18@ said they were getting in touch with IPL --can you say if this worked,
and are you allowed to tell us the name of the company --or is this banned in
case it is advertising?
Can I email cutie567 --what does it mean Glew18@   is it @yahoo.com?

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "Sharon" <sharon_giles@...> wrote:
>
> I use otc Ibuprofen for flare-ups. It reduces the redness, the inflammation,
and the feeling of prickliness/burning. It also helps me with sinus pain and
inflammation (one of my triggers for rosacea). Try 2 tablets twice a day to
start with, then reduce the dosage. And of course read the cautions.
>
> Wikipedia has a great article on Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is also being used
currently for regular acne.
>
> Sharon
>
> --- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "cutie567" <Glew18@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Everyone,
> >
> > I haven't been on much but lately I am flairing so bad I do not know what to
do to get relief. I am getting a touch up IPL on 12/2 but until that time I am
speechless on what to do. It started with a red nose last Friday, I still have
that plus it spread to my cheek area. Last night I took a zyrtec because I
thought an allergy my nose and sinusis hurt also. I slept twelve hours because
of the zyrtec woke up today with the reddnes and these tiny bumps all over my
face. My face burns, and just hurts and I do not know what to do? I use
vanicream cleansing bar and avene intolerant skin cream but it's not hekping
with the flair. Does anyone have any suggestions I would be really greatful. I
had this flare a few weeks ago had oracea in the house took it for 5 days and it
cleared but all this came back a week later :( Thanks everyone
> > Jen
> >
>

Hi.....I also use Ibuprofen for flares. I find taking one each day keeps my
rosacea under controll. It keeps the inflamation down and I too have sinus
problems and arthritis, the ibuprofen helps



To: rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com
From: sharon_giles@...
Date: Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:13:37 +0000
Subject: [rosacea] Re: any way to get some relief





I use otc Ibuprofen for flare-ups. It reduces the redness, the inflammation, and
the feeling of prickliness/burning. It also helps me with sinus pain and
inflammation (one of my triggers for rosacea). Try 2 tablets twice a day to
start with, then reduce the dosage. And of course read the cautions.

Wikipedia has a great article on Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is also being used
currently for regular acne.

Sharon

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "cutie567" <Glew18@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Everyone,
>
> I haven't been on much but lately I am flairing so bad I do not know what to
do to get relief. I am getting a touch up IPL on 12/2 but until that time I am
speechless on what to do. It started with a red nose last Friday, I still have
that plus it spread to my cheek area. Last night I took a zyrtec because I
thought an allergy my nose and sinusis hurt also. I slept twelve hours because
of the zyrtec woke up today with the reddnes and these tiny bumps all over my
face. My face burns, and just hurts and I do not know what to do? I use
vanicream cleansing bar and avene intolerant skin cream but it's not hekping
with the flair. Does anyone have any suggestions I would be really greatful. I
had this flare a few weeks ago had oracea in the house took it for 5 days and it
cleared but all this came back a week later :( Thanks everyone
> Jen
>





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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

I use otc Ibuprofen for flare-ups. It reduces the redness, the inflammation, and
the feeling of prickliness/burning. It also helps me with sinus pain and
inflammation (one of my triggers for rosacea). Try 2 tablets twice a day to
start with, then reduce the dosage. And of course read the cautions.

Wikipedia has a great article on Ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is also being used
currently for regular acne.

Sharon

--- In rosacea-support@yahoogroups.com, "cutie567" <Glew18@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Everyone,
>
> I haven't been on much but lately I am flairing so bad I do not know what to
do to get relief. I am getting a touch up IPL on 12/2 but until that time I am
speechless on what to do. It started with a red nose last Friday, I still have
that plus it spread to my cheek area. Last night I took a zyrtec because I
thought an allergy my nose and sinusis hurt also. I slept twelve hours because
of the zyrtec woke up today with the reddnes and these tiny bumps all over my
face. My face burns, and just hurts and I do not know what to do? I use
vanicream cleansing bar and avene intolerant skin cream but it's not hekping
with the flair. Does anyone have any suggestions I would be really greatful. I
had this flare a few weeks ago had oracea in the house took it for 5 days and it
cleared but all this came back a week later :( Thanks everyone
> Jen
>

Fish is great, avocado is good, as is coconut. Both are high in saturated
fat. The things to avoid are oils that are high in Omega 6 fatty acids, like
canola oil and corn oil, etc.

It's harder for a vegetarian than a meat-eater, but if you can eat dairy and
eggs, do.Use butter and full fat milk, cheese, and yogurt. If you can afford
it or have access to a farmer's market, get milk and cheese from cows that
have been grass-fed and not grain-fed (they are higher in Omega-3). For
eggs, get ones from either pastured, grass-fed chickens (not the same as
"free range" at least in the U.S.) or get Omega-3 eggs.

I really do think my switch from low-fat to full-fat everything has made a
huge difference in my skin. And like I said I also lost a bunch of weight,
so don't believe those people who say you'll get fat if you eat fat. It
ain't necessarily so - it's the type of fat that matters.


[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Hi Diane,

I don't know about seabuckthorn oil specifically, but when a treatment or
product starts to eliminate spots, be theywhiteheads or blackheads, it often
takes quite a few weeks for stuff lurking deep in the pores to be completely
expelled. People often assume that the treatment has failed and is making the
skin worse, so give up before the process is completed.

> Anyone have any good ideas for the constant little whiteheads and how to get
rid of them.  I've tried differin, finacea, clindamycin and cannot get my pores
to stop clogging in my chin area. <

How long did you try each of them? Any idea what is triggering the whiteheads?

Did you ever read any of the old posts here from around 2007/08 about cleaning
the skin with oil? The idea is that gentle finger-tip massage with oils can
loosen plugs of sebum from the pores so they just slip out easily and can be
washed away. Might that be of any interest to you?

Kind regards,

Aurelia

Hi Jen ("cutie567"),

Sorry you're back in this same situation again. That's awful! :(

Russie and Damien have given you some good suggestions, including Damien's
advice to talk with your doctor.

Sorry for not remembering, but is your IPL treatment provider a doctor? Even
though you aren't booked in for a few more weeks, might he or she be willing to
offer advice and/or a prescription? With luck, this person will have a ton of
experience of similar situations and be able to offer just the right help.

I've not had IPL, and it might be that the treatment can go ahead without any
difficulties even if you're in pain and have papules, but perhaps the operator
might prefer to help you have a better chance of turning up feeling more
comfortable and with calmer skin?

Does that make sense, or is it not relevant?

Kind regards,

Aurelia