Q. I have been diagnosed with rosacea but don’t want to use the antibiotic treatments suggested by my doctor. Can a spa treatment help?




A Prescription strength medicines and creams can have side effects and long term use can cause tolerance problems. That said, I would never second guess your medical professional and I suggest you run my advice by your doctor before taking it. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition resulting from skin inflammation. It shows up as redness or flushing and can in advanced stages involve swelling, and skin eruptions that look like acne. Rosacea is often mis-diagnosed and treating it like acne can make the condition worse. This skin condition is genetic in nature but is also triggered by lifestyle and diet. Your first step in controlling your condition is knowledge. You should learn everything you can about Rosacea and begin to keep a journal of what triggers your problems. Some common culprits are sun, stress, alcoholic beverages, spicy foods, and hot liquids. A regular routine of facials from a skilled esthetician (skin therapist), proper home care and changes in your diet and life style can make a huge impact. Rosacea is basically a skin inflammation problem so products like vitamins C and K are helpful. In the treatment room advance treatments using aloe vera, chamomile and salicylic acid can be beneficial. Try the non medication approach with the help of a skin professional who understands your condition. If you don’t get success, you can try the medical approach to jump start healing and then with the help of your doctor begin to combine the two methods. Again, my advice is never a substitute for your doctor’s care. Take my advice to your medial professional and make the decision that is best for you.