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Top 15 Personally Tested Ideas in Managing Rosacea and Acne
Managing Rosacea and Acne
In the skincare world, understanding your skin’s unique needs is paramount. This article will outline a skincare philosophy focused on developing your “skin tuition.” By learning to listen to your skin’s cues and needs, you can navigate the ever-changing landscape of skincare with confidence.
Developing a skincare routine involves more than just slathering on products. It requires a systematic approach that allows you to understand how each product interacts with your skin. By changing one variable at a time and employing AB testing, you can efficiently identify what works best for your skin.
As someone who has struggled with the trifecta of oily, acne-prone, and rosacea-prone skin, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find the right skincare routine. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small red bumps. It’s a highly personal condition, with different triggers and symptoms for each individual.
Acne, on the other hand, is a common skin condition characterized by the development of pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes. While rosacea and acne can sometimes overlap, they are distinct conditions that require different treatment approaches.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to managing these skin concerns is to develop a personalized skincare philosophy and routine that addresses the root causes of inflammation and imbalance. In this article, I’ll share my skincare journey, the products and techniques that have worked for me, and the principles that have guided my approach to achieving healthy, glowing skin.
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My Skincare Philosophy: Developing Skin Intuition
At the heart of my skincare philosophy is the concept of “skin intuition,” a term I borrowed from the renowned skincare expert. Skin intuition is the ability to intuitively understand your skin’s needs and respond to them accordingly, as your skin’s requirements can change with the seasons, your environment, and even your age.
To develop this intuition, I’ve found it helpful to follow a systematic approach to testing and introducing new products. Rather than overhauling my entire routine at once, I make changes one product at a time, carefully observing how my skin reacts.
I also like to do A/B testing, where I apply a new product on one half of my face and continue using my old product on the other half, allowing me to directly compare the results.
This methodical approach has helped me learn which ingredients and formulations work best for my skin, and it has also made the process of finding the right products much more efficient.
By paying close attention to how my skin responds, I’ve been able to develop a deep understanding of its unique needs and preferences, which has been invaluable in managing my rosacea and acne.
My Skincare Routine: Step-by-Step
Now, let’s dive into the specifics of my skincare routine. I’ve broken it down into five key steps: cleansing, watering, building, treating, and moisturizing. Within each step, I’ll share the products I’ve found to be most effective for my sensitive, rosacea-prone, and acne-prone skin.
Step 1: Cleansing
I start my routine with a double cleansing method, using a cleansing balm followed by a gentle, fragrance-free cleanser. My go-to cleansing balm is the Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm, which contains soothing ingredients like rice and oat. I find this balm to be incredibly effective at removing makeup, sunscreen, and other impurities without stripping my skin.
Pro
- Great for sensitive skin, no fragrance
- Effective at cleansing without irritation
- Gentle and soothing, suitable for dry skin
- Price efficient compared to similar products
- Easy to use and travel-friendly
- Luxurious texture leaves skin soft
- Good for removing face makeup and sunscreen
Cons
- Struggles with waterproof mascara removal
- May leave residue requiring additional cleansing
- Requires effort to remove heavy eye makeup
- Not the best for completely dissolving mascara
- Could leave a slightly oily feel if not fully removed
- Works better in a double cleanse routine
- The initial application may need more products for effectiveness
For my second cleanse, I often reach for Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser or Vanicream Liquid Cleanser. These fragrance-free, non-irritating cleansers help to gently remove any remaining residue without disrupting my skin’s natural barrier.
Pros
- This facial wash is gentle
- Nice size for the price
- Leaves face moisturized and soft
- A little goes a long way! It’s going to last me so long!
- Doesn’t make me break out or completely dry out my skin
- Good for dry skin
- Perfect for sensitive skin
Cons
- Doesn’t lather well
- Hard time breaking down sunscreen or makeup
- Packaging issues with spout popping off
- Product spilled during delivery
- Confusion between product type and description
- No scent or added ingredients can be a downside for some
Pros
- This facial wash is gentle
- Nice size for the price
- Leaves face moisturized and soft
- A little goes a long way!
- Doesn’t make skin break out or dry out
- Good for dry skin
- Perfect for sensitive skin
Cons
- Doesn’t lather
- Difficult to remove sunscreen or makeup
- Packaging can be frustrating to open
- No scent (may be a con for some)
- No added ingredients (may be a con for some)
Step 2: Watering
The next step in my routine is the “watering” step, where I use hydrating essences or toners to infuse my skin with moisture. This is one of my favorite steps, as it helps to plump and nourish my skin, giving me that coveted “glass skin” glow.
Two of my go-to options for this step are the Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Toner and the Beauty of Joseon Ginseng Essence Water. Both of these products are packed with soothing, hydrating ingredients like centella asiatica and ginseng, which are particularly beneficial for rosacea-prone skin.
Pros
- Added glow and hydration to skin
- Leaves skin feeling clean and good
- Brightens and evens out skin tone
- Hydrating without tackiness
- Lightweight and fast results
- No perfume scent
- Improves skin texture
Cons
- May cause tingling or irritation with over-application
- Doesn’t work for everyone (e.g., no noticeable effects)
- Not effective for some users
- Some users find it unnecessary or ineffective
- It could be perceived as pricey for some
- No significant fragrance (could be a con for those preferring scented products)
Pros
- Hydrates skin well in dry climates
- Calms inflammation
- Reduces sebum production
- Leaves skin dewy and hydrated
- Reasonably priced
- Contains 2% Niacinamide
- Includes Ginseng for anti-aging benefits
Cons
- Had a root scent in recent batches
- Texture is watery, not thick or emollient
- May not do much beyond moisturizing
- Slight herbal or medicinal scent
- Considered pricey for some
- Not ideal for oily skin types
- Initial scent may be off-putting
Step 3: Building
After the watering step, I build a healthy skin barrier with calming serums and ampoules. This is where I focus on nourishing my skin with ceramides, peptides, and probiotic ingredients that support the skin’s natural microbiome.
Two of my favorite products in this step are the Skin 1004 Madagascar Centella Serum and the Kate Somerville DeliKate Recovery Serum. The Skin 1004 serum is a milky, affordable option that my skin loves, while the Kate Somerville serum is a more luxurious choice that helps to soothe and strengthen my skin barrier.
Pros
- Calming on the skin
- Provides intense hydration
- Helps with dry and irritated skin
- Smooths skin texture
- Moisturizing and non-irritating
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Leaves skin supple and smooth
Cons
- May cause breakouts for oily, acne-prone skin
- Not suitable for oily and acnegenic skin types
- Has a slightly thicker consistency
- Expensive for some users
- No significant scent
- Some users experience an initial acne breakout
- May require cautious usage for acne-prone skin
PRO’s
- Customers found this serum nourishing without being sticky, helpful with dryness and tinting lotion.
- This serum improves skin appearance and cleanses, according to customers.
- Gentle and non-irritating, this serum is ideal for delicate or sensitive combination skin.
- Customers say the serum is cooling and leaves no residue.
- Some people say the serum works.
CON’S
- Many users say the serum is too sticky.
- Customers have mentioned stinging or burning.
- Terrible odors, mildew/mold smell, and skin burning with the serum.
- Not for sensitive skin, the serum may not suit their skin tone or produce irritation or allergic reactions.
- No significant scent
- Some users experience initial acne breakouts.
Step 4: Treating
In the treating step, I incorporate targeted ingredients to address specific skin concerns, such as retinoids for texture and azelaic acid for rosacea.
For retinoids, I use the Beauty of Joseon Retinal Eye Serum, which contains a gentler retinol derivative that is less likely to irritate my sensitive skin. I’ve also experimented with Paula’s Choice Azelaic Acid, as there is research to support its efficacy in treating rosacea. However, I haven’t found it to be as effective for my particular case of rosacea.
Pros
- Better than $1000 plasma pen
- Noticeable improvement in skin elasticity
- Long-lasting; one tube lasts a long time
- No noticeable smell
- Feels buttery and absorbs well
- Works well under makeup
- Effective in reducing dark circles
Cons
- Pump malfunction reported
- May cause irritation if used too frequently
- Some users experienced no visible effects
- Not effective for severe chemical burn-like irritation
- Packaging could be improved for easier dispensing
- Texture is slightly yellow in appearance
- Initial adjustment period required for sensitive skin
Pros
- Definitely has helped my face
- Works well, skin is clearing up
- Helps make skin smoother and clearer
- Noticed a difference in reducing redness and bumps
- Immediate results, softened skin texture
- Great alternative to Hydroquinone, evens skin tone
- Hydrates and calms redness effectively
Cons
- Such a small package
- Mild stinging sensation upon application
- Not a miracle product for everyone
- Can irritate sensitive skin and cause breakouts
- May cause allergic reactions in some users
- Not suitable for those with breathing problems
- Very tiny tube, limited amount for extended use
Another product I’ve been loving in this step is the Medicube Red Centella Balm | 1% Centella, which I use as a spot treatment for any breakouts. The centella asiatica in this balm helps to calm inflammation and speed up the healing process.
Pro
- Helps speed up healing
- Soothes the fresh wound
- Very soothing
- Good for spot treatment
- Easy to apply and absorbs well
- Helps with hormonal acne
- Contains Centella asiatica for skin healing
Cons
- Didn’t do much for severe acne scarring
- Not strong enough for drying out pimples
- Expensive for the amount used
- Leaves a residue after absorption
- May not prevent scarring effectively
Step 5: Moisturizing
Finally, I lock in all the goodness from the previous steps with a nourishing moisturizer. My go-to option is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is formulated with ceramides and shea butter to support my skin’s barrier.
Pros
- Rich texture
- Absorbs quickly
- Packed with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide
- Hydrates and plumps skin
- Effective for fine lines
- No greasy feel
- Affordable
Cons
- Thick and tacky feel on the face for some users
- May feel heavy for some skin types
- Could be more luxurious in packaging
- Requires careful application due to dense texture
Daytime Adjustments and Sun Protection
In the morning, I make a few adjustments to my routine. I’ll use a lighter moisturizer, such as the Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream, and always make sure to apply a generous amount of sunscreen.
Pro
- No scent
- Smooth and thick cream
- Absorbs easily
- Moisturizing on first use
- Non-toxic ingredients
- Feels luxurious
- Good price point
Cons
- Leaves skin sticky if too much is applied
- Temporary stickiness after application
- No English translation for ingredients
- May feel too hydrating for some
- Feels like it sits on top of skin
- Not suitable for humid climates
- Some users find it uncomfortable to sleep in
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My go-to sunscreen is the EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen, which is formulated specifically for acne-prone and rosacea-prone skin. It contains niacinamide and other soothing ingredients that help to calm inflammation and protect my skin from UV damage.
Pro’s
- The sunscreen feels light and non-greasy on the skin.
- The sunscreen provides effective and reliable sun protection.
- The sunscreen has a soft, smooth texture that’s easy to apply and feels great on the skin.
- The sunscreen is moisturizing, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave a white cast.
Con’s
- Some users experience skin irritation (burning, stinging, rashes) from the sunscreen.
- Breakouts may occur due to product leakage or its texture.
- The sunscreen can feel heavy or greasy, leaving residue.
- The product has an unpleasant scent.
- The pump may leak or malfunction.
Supplementary Treatments: IPL and Red Light Therapy
In addition to my daily skincare routine, I also incorporate a few supplementary treatments to help manage my rosacea and acne. One of these is professional IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments, which I get done once a year. IPL is a non-invasive procedure that uses targeted light to reduce redness, pigmentation, and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea.
Between my annual IPL treatments, I also use an at-home IPL device, such as the Ulike Laser Hair Removal, to help maintain the results and keep my rosacea in check.
Another tool I’ve been using is a red light therapy mask, specifically the NEWKEY Blue Light Therapy for Acne. Red light therapy has been shown to have anti-inflammatory benefits and can help to promote skin healing, making it a valuable addition to my routine for managing both rosacea and acne.
Embracing the Journey: Celebrating Skin Wins and Sharing Discoveries
Navigating the complexities of rosacea and acne has been a long and winding journey for me, but one that has ultimately led to a deeper understanding and appreciation of my skin. By approaching skincare with a systematic, intuitive mindset, I’ve been able to find products and techniques that work in harmony with my unique skin needs.
I’m grateful to have found solutions that have helped me achieve clearer, more balanced skin, and I’m always excited to share my discoveries with others who may be facing similar challenges. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that our skin is constantly evolving, and the key is to remain open-minded, patient, and willing to experiment until we find what works best for us.
I hope that by sharing my skincare journey and philosophy, I can inspire you to embark on your path to healthy, glowing skin. Remember, you are the expert of your skin, and by tuning in to its needs and responding with care and intention, you can achieve the radiant complexion you’ve been dreaming of.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is rosacea and how does it differ from acne? Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small red bumps. Acne, on the other hand, is a common skin condition characterized by the development of pimples, blackheads, and other blemishes. While the two conditions can sometimes overlap, they require different treatment approaches.
- How can I develop my own “skin intuition”? The key to developing skin intuition is to take a systematic, observant approach to introducing new products and monitoring your skin’s response. Try changing one product at a time and doing A/B testing on your face to see the direct effects. Pay close attention to how your skin reacts, and over time, you’ll start to develop a deep understanding of your skin’s unique needs and preferences.
- What are the benefits of using Centella Asiatica in skincare? Centella Asiatica is a plant with powerful anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable ingredient for those with rosacea and acne-prone skin. Research has shown that centella can help to reduce redness, calm inflammation, and support the skin’s natural barrier function.
- How can I use retinoids and azelaic acid safely and effectively for rosacea and acne? When it comes to using more potent active ingredients like retinoids and azelaic acid, it’s important to start slowly and build up tolerance. Begin with low concentrations and gradually increase the frequency of use, allowing your skin to adjust. It’s also crucial to pair these treatments with hydrating, soothing products to minimize irritation.
- What are the benefits of using zinc oxide in skin care? Zinc oxide is a mineral that can have a calming, balancing effect on the skin, particularly for those with oily, acne-prone complexions. It can help to regulate oil production, promote healing, and provide a protective barrier against environmental stressors.
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