Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness and bumps on the face or nose. These bumps can appear either pus-filled or with noticeable blood vessels on the cheeks and nose, leading to redness. In some rare cases, there may be slight swelling.
Dr Namrata Singh, a dermatologist and founder of Aiconic Skin Clinic in Bengaluru, says that sun exposure, excessive heat or cold, emotional stress, strenuous exercise, spicy meals, and alcohol, commonly trigger rosacea symptoms in affected individuals. Medical procedures like laser therapy, prescription creams, and oral antibiotics often provide relief from rosacea. However, using home remedies for rosacea might also help to relieve inflammation.
Ayurveda-backed home remedies for rosacea
Dr Swapna Madhavan (BAMS, MPH) senior medical associate, Aster DM healthcare says that in ayurveda, rosacea falls under pitta vyadi, which means it occurs when there is too much heat inside the body. Interestingly, this heat does not always affect the entire body; it can be just on the skin or the other way around. Besides, people different body types, like kapha or vata, can also get rosacea.
Ayurveda does not focus on treating just the symptoms. Instead, the treatment plan varies from person to person. “But we can use cooling substances both internally and externally for relief. We can use usheera (vettiver), chandana (sandalwood), rakta chandana, yashtimadhu (liquorice), and triphala,” Dr Madhavan says.
Dr Aiswarya E, a medical review scientist at Medilenz Innovations says that in ayurveda, rosacea is considered a condition related to an imbalanced pitta dosha. The basic treatment approach involves restoring the balance of pitta through medications and personalised dietary and lifestyle adjustments.
Here are some natural remedies for rosacea by experts
Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel has been used for a long time to help with skin problems. It can calm down redness and swelling in those with rosacea. “Use of fresh aloe vera gel is found to be very useful in sudden exacerbation of rosacea. We can [apply] aloe vera gel on the affected skin for relief.” says Dr Aiswarya.
Turmeric
Curcumin, found in turmeric, is a powerful ingredient that can calm down inflammation when applied on the skin or eaten as part of one’s diet. One can make a mixture of turmeric powder and yogurt and apply it to the affected skin to reduce redness and swelling.
Honey
Honey being a natural cleanser, can stop the spread of rosacea. It soothes dry and reddened skin and prevents the outbreak of pimples. Gently rub some raw honey on the affected skin for fifteen minutes and notice the effects in about two weeks. Use of honey as an external application helps bring down the red patches.
Avoid trigger foods
Dr Namrata Singh, dermatologist and founder of Aiconic Skin Clinic in Bengaluru, says food can also trigger rosacea. Hence, knowing and avoiding them can help manage the condition effectively. The most important ways to prevent rosacea include controlling these known triggers.
When it comes to diet and lifestyle, one should opt for low-carb and light vegetable-based meals and maintain good personal hygiene, says Dr Aiswarya. “Avoid triggers like jaggery, non-vegetarian food, yogurt, and chocolates,” she adds.
Adjust skincare routine
This involves regular sun protection using silicone-free sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher (preferably physical sunscreens), frequently applying moisturiser to dry skin, using gentle cleansers, and managing stress and anger.
“Other home remedies for rosacea include regularly applying ice, using aloe vera gel for soothing relief, and avoiding beverages like tea, coffee, and spicy foods,” says Dr Singh.
Word of caution
Before starting any natural home remedies for rosacea, it is crucial to consult a dermatologist to ensure there is no harmful interactions with any medications one may be on. Moreover, one should conduct a patch test with new products since some individuals can have adverse reactions.
