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Rosacea & Itch
Some people complain that the skin affected by rosacea itches, tingles or burns. Touching the skin can make these symptoms worse. The itch can be triggered by overly dry skin, harsh skin care products. If you have overly dry skin, consider the following:
- Avoid standing or sitting near heaters or open fires. The heat can quickly dry the skin.
- Turn down the thermostat.
- Use a humidifier. Regular use of a humidifier can help alleviate cracked, irritated skin when the air is dry.
- Wash with lukewarm, not hot, water.
- Select skin care products that are not overly drying or irritating. Try to avoid the following ingredients (alcohol, eucalyptus, fragrance, menthol, peppermint, or witch hazel).
- Avoid rubbing, scratching the skin
- Avoid using topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone. While corticosteroids can bring immediate relief, they can lead to long-term worsening of rosacea. As soon as the topical corticosteroid is stopped, inflammation usually returns with a worsening of the inflammation. Additionally, long-term use of topical corticosteroids can cause side effects, such as thinning skin, stretch marks, and visible capillaries.
Whether you have been bothered by the itch of rosacea for years or just recently noticed that your rosacea is beginning to itch, be sure to see your dermatologist, who may consider the need for a medication, such as pramoxine.
Appropriate treatment can lessen the itch of rosacea.
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