Rosacea

April marks Rosacea Awareness Month. Rosacea is a multi-faceted condition that has a number of contributing factors. These include:

〰️ gut dysbiosis

〰️ immune dysregulation

〰️ nutrient deficiencies

〰️ present of a mite on the skin, known as dermodex

〰️ environmental factors

Common triggers of rosacea include:

〰️ stress

〰️ cold/hot temperatures or a rapid change in temperature

〰️ spicy food & culinary spices

〰️ alcohol

〰️ hot drinks

〰️ dairy

〰️ topical skincare, makeup and sunscreens

〰️ environmental triggers such as sun exposure, dust & animal fur

Gut

As with all skin conditions, the skin is a reflection of our internal environment as a result of the gut-skin axis. An imbalanced gut microbiome reduces the capacity of the immune system to prevent bacterial infection.

Issues with absorption of nutrients are reflected on the skin, as an impaired skin barrier is implicated in rosacea, and requires specific nutrients to be restored.

Inflammation in the gut can disrupt the skin’s ability to heal and further exacerbates conditions such as rosacea.

There is a link between digestive conditions such as SIBO, h.pylori infection and gut dysbiosis and rosacea.

Stress

Increased cortisol, our stress hormone, is inflammatory to the body and impacts the skin’s ability to heal and repair. Continually elevated cortisol levels break down elastin and collagen, resulting in impaired skin barrier function.

Hormones

Hormonal imbalances (such as around peri-menopause) can exacerbate rosacea due to the influence of hormones such as oestrogen on the integrity of the skin.

Naturopathic Treatment of Rosacea

〰️ Identify triggers and address the root cause

〰️ Modulate the immune system

〰️ Support the gut microbiome and address any pathogens or opportunistic bacteria overgrowth

〰️ Reduce inflammation - cold water fish, berries, seeds, turmeric, vegetables, extra virgin olive oil

〰️ Increase antioxidants through the diet - berries, colourful fruit & vegetables, green tea

〰️ Bitter foods to support digestive function - rocket, radicchio, endive

〰️ Support liver function - cruciferous vegetables, adequate hydration, dry body brushing

〰️ Remove all topical triggers - make up, skin care, sunscreen etc

〰️ Zinc rich foods to support wound healing and reduce inflammation - pepitas, oysters, grass fed beef, dark leafy green vegetables, legumes

〰️ Ensure drinking water is filtered