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If you're one of the 16 million Americans with rosacea, you may already know that it can be challenging to decipher, let alone treat. Thanks to steadfast clinical research and modern-day social media prowess, skin care concerns are in the spotlight more than ever before. But with all this information at your fingertips, it can be hard to know what's most relevant to you.

 

Case in point: Niacinamide has been getting a lot of buzz lately—but is Niacinamide good for rosacea? Let's take a closer look at what this ingredient can do for you.

 

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that bears a resemblance to sunburn. It can appear on the cheeks, forehead, chin, nose, eyes, ears, neck, chest, and scalp. While symptoms such as redness, prominent blood vessels, and a bumpy rash may come and go, they typically become long-lasting. There's no cure for rosacea, but you can take steps to manage these symptoms.

woman smiling while applying skincare to her face

 

What Causes Rosacea?

The root cause of rosacea is unknown. Inflammation is responsible for symptoms, which can flare up in response to a range of triggers. Rosacea triggers vary from person to person. They may include:

  • Sun exposure
  • Extreme weather conditions
  • Some skin and hair care products
  • Stress
  • Spicy foods
  • Alcohol
  • Hot water
  • Hormonal shifts (e.g., menopause)
  • Vigorous exercise

 

Risk Factors

People of any sex, age, or race can develop rosacea. However, you may be at higher risk of rosacea if you have fair skin, a history of smoking, a family member with rosacea, or are between the ages of 30 and 50. Women are also slightly more prone to this condition (particularly during menopause), but men are more likely to have severe rosacea.

 

Are There Different Types of Rosacea?

There are four different types of rosacea, and it's possible to have more than one type. Understanding which type you have is key to proper treatment, so work with a skin care professional to assess your unique situation. And be honest about your lifestyle habits, as they can affect your symptoms. Your Dermatologist is there to help, not judge.

 

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is the most common of the four types, distinguished by chronic redness and highly visible, enlarged blood vessels. Symptoms can flare up in response to lifestyle and environmental influences, but they eventually become permanent and spread to other areas of the face.

 

Papulopustular Rosacea

In addition to redness, papulopustular rosacea is characterized by stubborn whiteheads, pus-filled pimples, and inflamed red bumps. Due to its similar appearance, you may mistake it for acne.

 

Phymatous Rosacea

Phymatous rosacea is the rarest of the four types, and men are more susceptible. It typically affects the nose, resulting in a bulbous appearance. It may also cause skin to thicken and scar, making it appear swollen and discolored.

 

Ocular Rosacea

Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, causing dryness and sensitivity. They may appear watery and bloodshot. In some cases, cysts can form on the lids.

 

Is Niacinamide Good for Rosacea?

Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3, a water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in achieving and maintaining healthy skin. It's considered a superhero ingredient because it treats a variety of skin concerns and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and rosacea-prone skin.

 

While your Derm may prescribe topical or oral medication or suggest laser treatments, over-the-counter products formulated with Niacinamide can help you manage symptoms at home.

 

Niacinamide Benefits for Rosacea

So, what are the Niacinamide benefits for rosacea? This calming ingredient can target the following rosacea symptoms:

  • Soothes and reduces inflammation, decreasing sensitivity and redness
  • Strengthens the skin's moisture barrier function, which helps alleviate itching, burning, dryness, and roughness
  • Prevents transepidermal water loss to keep skin hydrated and balanced
  • Protects skin from oxidative stress that can cause flare-ups
  • Regulates oil production in oily- or acne-prone rosacea conditions
  • Brightens and evens skin tone

 

Niacinamide and Your Skin Care Routine

If you have rosacea, avoid using skin care products formulated with harsh ingredients, including alcohol, acids, and gritty exfoliants. Opt for gentle products formulated with Niacinamide and designed with sensitive skin in mind.

 

For example, PCA SKIN HydraBright is a cloudlike, results-driven daily moisturizer suitable for sensitive skin. Niacinamide, Squalane, Biostable Gallic Acid, and Smart Melanin Microalgae work synergistically to brighten, hydrate, smooth, and soothe the skin in just 21 days.

 

PCA SKIN Dual Action Redness Relief is another must-try. This serum harnesses the power of Niacinamide, Dimethyl Sulfone, and Silybum Marianum Fruit Extract to calm skin, reduce redness and sensitivity, and increase hydration on contact. Thanks to its time-released OmniSome™ delivery system, ingredients are delivered deeper into the skin over 10 hours for long-lasting effects.

 

Finally, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day to prevent further flushing and enlarged blood vessels.

 

Rosacea Best Practices

Skin care is only part of the equation. To fully manage rosacea, add these best practices to your routine:

  • Avoid aggressively scrubbing your face when cleansing.
  • Wash, shower, and bathe with warm or lukewarm (not hot) water.
  • Minimize your intake of spicy and high-temperature foods and beverages.
  • Opt for low-impact exercises like walking, yoga, or Pilates.

 

Rosacea can be challenging, but with the right products and consistent lifestyle changes, you can get your symptoms under control. PCA SKIN has pioneered and perfected the science of skin health for 30 years. So, for professional guidance, contact a PCA SKIN professional near you to begin your transformation to skin you can feel good in.

 

Author:
Rebecca Taras
A Chicagoland native, Rebecca began her career catering to celebrity clientele as a licensed esthetician at the Peninsula Chicago Hotel. Her passion for skin care ingredients, formulations, and skin histology led her to create custom in-room skin, bath, and body amenities for the Sofitel Hotel Chicago. The Chicago Fashion Foundation recognized her efforts with the Style Maker, Rule Breaker award in the Beauty category. She later went on to co-found Terminal Getaway airport spas. Rebecca’s experience also includes serving as an editor for digital outlets such as Refinery29, PopSugar, Forbes Travel Guides, and Bustle. She continues to refine her skin care knowledge while spending time traveling the world with her husband.