Cynthia Nixon: A few years ago my skin problems started. I blushed intermittently and developed skin problems that looked like pubertal acne. To top it all off, my redness was getting worse and my face was glowing – everyone could see it! One day my skin was perfectly fine, the next day my face was “blooming”. I noticed that the sun, exercise, spicy food and red wine provoked my skin redness. Unfortunately, all things that I enjoy. So I had a choice: either I live with the redness or I do something about my skin problems. So I visited a dermatologist – the diagnosis: rosacea.
There are different stages of rosacea. Which one are you in?
I get bouts of redness and occasionally have pimples and skin imperfections. Also, my skin always burns when it’s cold or warm.
How did you take care of your skin before you were diagnosed with rosacea?
I was pretty rough on my skin, using scrubs and pore tightening astringents to get rid of dead skin cells and keep my pores clean. Like many other sufferers, I tried a few things myself and made a lot of mistakes – until I finally went to a dermatologist and got advice and treatment from him.
To what extent have you changed your nursing habits after the diagnosis?
My skincare routine has done more harm than good to my skin. But now I’m following my dermatologist’s advice, because if you suffer from rosacea, gentle and careful skin care is particularly important. After figuring out which products are best for me, I’ve been using them consistently and the skin on my face has improved significantly. However, it is important to always remember that the therapy that works for me is not necessarily the right method for other patients. Every skin is different talk to your dermatologist first, he can advise you individually.
What was the biggest limitation for you once you were diagnosed with rosacea and knowing about your triggers (ie the triggers)?
My dad is from Texas, so I’m a huge jalapeño and barbecue sauce fan. And red wine first… But all this affects my rosacea negatively. Once rosacea sufferers have identified their triggers—such as the sun, alcohol, or harsh personal care products—they should be gentle with them to minimize the disruption caused by rosacea.
How can rosacea patients avoid premature skin aging?
Let’s face it, when you’re in your 30s and still dealing with breakouts and breakouts, you feel pretty unattractive. One should keep an eye on skin changes such as rosacea, especially as one ages, because they are not only uncomfortable, but unfortunately can also lead to premature aging of the skin. My dermatologist gave me the tip to apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 40 – every day. This protects against premature signs of aging such as sunspots, wrinkles and sagging skin and also helps with rosacea, as sun is one of the biggest triggers. Rosacea symptoms like pimples, blemishes, and other blemishes can make skin look older than it actually is. It is therefore particularly important to pay more attention to your skin as you get older.
What tips can you give other rosacea patients and what advice do you have for people who suspect they have this skin condition?
Rosacea is a daily companion, but that doesn’t mean that the disease has to be visible all the time. The skin disease should not determine the entire life. Anyone who suspects they have rosacea should see a dermatologist – things can only get better after that. I tried to solve my skin problem myself and almost despaired.
If a sufferer knows they have rosacea, they should have a conversation with their dermatologist about their personal triggers and the right type of skin care routine. The dermatologist also explains treatment options: There are medications for external use such as creams or gels. Medications can also be taken. Laser therapy can also help.
