Treating Rosacea with Traditional Chinese Medicine: Healing Rosacea from the Inside

Rosacea is that rosy glow that we don’t want to stick around!  

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a very common, chronic skin disease characterized by flushing or persistent redness in the central face. Other features of rosacea can include swelling, visible broken blood vessels (a.k.a. telangiectasia), and raised or inflamed papules and pustules. These features vary from person to person and may be prominent or absent depending on the individual presentation. 

Most people who suffer from rosacea will notice increasing episodes of flushing beginning in their 30s and 40s and progressing or worsening over time. Flushing comes and goes initially and then eventually becomes persistent if left untreated. Women are effected slightly more than men, and Celtic ancestry also seems to produce an increased tendency to develop rosacea, however, it has been reported in virtually all populations.   

More than just rosy cheeks

Flushing in rosacea refers to an episode of acute inflammation in the tissue of the face that causes a visible redness to the skin. Commonly seen on the cheeks, it may also spread to effect the eyes, nose, forehead, chin, and chest. When the inflammation is severe it can even cause edema, creating a visibly swollen or puffy appearance to the tissue of the cheeks, eyes and nose. The skin can feel hot and irritated and be incredibly uncomfortable for the individual. All around a very unpleasant experience.

From managing symptoms to healing the whole system Traditional Chinese Medicine can help heal rosacea from the inside out.

Rosacea may be triggered by many things including changes in temperature, sun exposure, alcohol, and emotions. While identifying and avoiding known triggers can help lessen symptoms it may not be enough to fully stop future flares. With Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) we can address both acute symptoms and the underlying imbalance at the root of the disease.

TCM herbal treatment for rosacea first focuses on settling the inflammatory process and clearing the redness and swelling. As the condition settles we add herbs to help reestablish balance and stability in the system. This involves mopping up inflammatory markers in the blood and clearing residual heat and dampness throughout the system to prevent further flares. Quite often people who suffer from Rosacea also have some degree of gut dysbiosis which will also be addressed through herbal treatment. The goal with herbal treatment is to identify and treat the root cause of the condition so that we can restore the health of the body and the skin. With appropriate treatment once the body and skin are stable they will tend to remain stable on their own without need for further herbal treatment.

Every case of rosacea is unique. With a thorough intake and Chinese Medicine diagnosis we can create a treatment plan specific to the individual. If you or someone you know suffers from rosacea and wants to avoid pharmaceuticals and medical interventions and get to the root of your skin issues, TCM Dermatology may be the best option for you. To learn more and find out if Chinese Medicine is right for you, schedule a Free Consultation today!