We’ve all been preached to about the dangers of unprotected sun exposure:  melanoma and other types of skin cancer, wrinkles, sun spots/liver spots, rough skin texture, freckles, sunburn, hyperpigmentation, the list goes on and on.  One thing you may not have heard is that sunscreen, in addition to preventing skin conditions like those listed above; can also help treat skin conditions that increase photosensitivity—like rosacea.

Rosacea is a skin disorder marked by inflamed, red, or irregularly textured skin of the neck and face.  The causes of rosacea are numerous and include everything from genetics to environmental triggers like certain medications or foods.  Just like skin cancer, rosacea is not limited to individuals with fair complexions, but is more common amongst people with less melanin (pigment giving skin its color).  Many times, the environmental triggers of rosacea patients include sun exposure and irritating skin care products (i.e.- those with lots of fragrance, dyes, synthetic ingredients, etc.)  Therefore, by regularly applying (and reapplying) sunscreen, rosacea patients may be able to limit skin redness.

It’s important to remember, however, that not all sunscreen products are created equal.  Only use products with a physical protection component like zinc oxide listed close to the top of the sunscreens’ ingredient list.  It’s also important to look for a broad spectrum product that offers both UVA and UVB sun protection.  The Environmental Defense Sunscreen™ at DAA’s Skin Medics™ Medical Spa meets all of the aforementioned requirements and contains anti-inflammatory agents like green tea extract to help calm the inflammation that can lead to rosacea redness.

Everyone, especially those with fair skin, should have their skin examined annually (skin cancer body check) by a board certified dermatologist to ensure that there are no questionable markings or evidence of precancerous actinic keratosises.  April is also Rosacea Awareness Month, and we’re celebrating at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta by offering specials on rosacea product packages and treatments.  Be sure to visit our skin care specials page to take advantage of the skin-soothing products and treatments we offer.