Flushing, rashes, bumps, and impurities. Rosacea and perioral dermatitis are two distinct skin conditions with similar symptoms that can be painful, irritating, and overall frustrating to deal with. In this blogpost, we're delving into these skin conditions to gain a better understanding of how to manage and care for our skin the way it deserves.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It's often characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small bumps and rashes. People with rosacea may also experience a burning or stinging sensation. As of today, there's no cure for rosacea – treatment is focused on treating and preventing reactions. The condition tends to worsen with triggers such as sun exposure, alcohol, spicy food, and stress. If you suspect you have rosacea, it's important to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What is perioral dermatitis?
Perioral dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the area around the mouth – but it can also appear around the eyes and nose. It's most often characterized by small, red, bumpy papules and pustules that may resemble acne. The exact cause has not yet been determined, but it's believed to be linked to the use of topical steroids, certain skincare products, and hormonal changes. The condition can be itchy or uncomfortable and is more prevalent in women than men. It's important to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, as the condition can worsen if not managed correctly.
To moisturize or not to moisturize?
People with rosacea or perioral dermatitis are often advised to opt out of rich creams to avoid worsening their condition – the oil concentration can risk clogging pores and encapsulating heat and moisture, potentially worsening symptoms. However, not all moisturizer is a no-no. What we recommend avoiding specifically are mineral oils: a type of petrolatum-derived oils often deemed too heavy for skin with rosacea or perioral dermatitis, as they form a barrier on the skin's surface, potentially trapping moisture, heat, and bacteria. Mineral oils also won't absorb into the skin's deepest layers, which is what it takes to nourish the skin. As with everything skincare-related, always do a patch-test of new products on limited areas (hands, arms, or neck) to check your skin is welcoming the ingredients.
Can I use Ultra-Rich Cream?
Yes – With an oil value of 29%, its low pH-value, and the molecular composition, our Ultra-Rich Cream is a great choice for flushed and irritated skin that still craves replenishing ingredients. It contains ingredients that soothe dry and damaged skin: the combination of oils and waxes create a unique composition of different fatty acids that allow the cream to absorb more effectively into the skin while preventing moisture loss.
It's also infused with hyaluronic acid and glycerin for deep moisture. It counteracts premature signs of aging via hyaluronic acid and Pavlova Lutheri Extract, which helps activate the synthesis of collagen type I, restoring the skin's barrier function and protecting skin cells from oxidative stress. It calms and strengthens a damaged skin barrier with niacinamide (reduces redness and irritation, improves suppleness), vitamin C, aloe vera extract, and Pavlova Lutheri Extract for antioxidant protection. This non-greasy, non-comedogenic, fragrance-free cream will offer your skin soothing, comforting, and restoring benefits.
Can Blemish Control Clarifying Gel be used too?
Yes – if your skin tends toward breakouts, impurities, and redness, Blemish Control Clarifying Gel can also be a relevant addition to your routine. The gel contains 3% SeboClear, which regulates the skin's sebum production and reduces the visibility of enlarged pores, which can help prevent breakouts. Actibiome balances the skin's microbiome and reduces harmful bacteria while supporting the beneficial ones. Linoleic acid from sea buckthorn strengthens the skin barrier, which is essential for protecting sensitive skin. Hyaluronic acid provides long-lasting hydration and keeps the skin soft and nourished without clogging pores.
The formula is fragrance-free and developed to be gentle, making it suitable for sensitive skin. As with any new product, we recommend introducing it gradually and monitoring how your skin reacts – and if you have an underlying skin condition, always consult your doctor before starting a new routine.
Combining Blemish Control Clarifying Gel with Ultra-Rich Cream gives you a routine that both targets impurities and strengthens the skin: Blemish Control addresses breakouts and minimizes clogged pores, while Ultra-Rich Cream provides intense hydration and calms irritation. You can use Blemish Control Clarifying Gel in the morning to keep oil and impurities in check throughout the day, and Ultra-Rich Cream in the evening to give the skin a richer layer of hydration and care overnight. Together, they offer a routine that doesn't leave the skin dry or irritated – instead, it feels soft and calm.
If you've previously avoided creams with a high oil content because of past experience, it's worth knowing that it's typically mineral oils your skin reacts negatively to – not oils in general. Ultra-Rich Cream is built around a high content of plant lipids, which work differently in the skin than mineral oils, and the formula's content of vitamin C and B contributes to calmer-looking skin.