Folliculitis: This inflammation of the hair follicles is sometimes caused by ingrown hairs. Infection from the bacteria Staphylococcus can develop in inflamed hair follicles on the face of someone with rosacea. Folliculitis is treated with both topical and oral antibiotics, or topical antifungals if a fungal infection is present. Men with rosacea who are prone to folliculitis may want to forego shaving, or use a new razor with every shave, to prevent a recurrence of folliculitis. Dry skin: If dry skin is causing your rosacea itch, you may need to make changes in your home environment. For example, in the colder months, put your thermostat on a lower setting because heat dries out the air. Don’t sit close to a fireplace or other heat source, as these can contribute to dry skin. Using a humidifier may offer some anti-itch relief. Also, avoid wearing wool or tight-fitting clothing in the winter months because this may exacerbate dry skin and itchiness. Topical medications or skin care products. Certain skin care product ingredients may irritate and dry out your skin and contribute to rosacea itch. These ingredients include alcohol, witch hazel, menthol, and eucalyptus. “Active inflammation on the face from any cause results in tiny little breaks in the skin,” says Elise Brantley, MD, of the dermatology department at University of Cincinnati. “Because of this breakdown in your natural skin barrier, many things can further irritate the skin, including topical moisturizers with numerous chemicals or fragrances, sunscreens, or even your own natural body sweat.” But regardless of a product’s ingredients, if it causes itching, stop using it immediately. Treatments for Rosacea Itch To help get your rosacea itch under control, your dermatologist may prescribe a topical antibiotic such as metronidazole, erythromycin, or clindamycin. Topical antibiotics reduce inflammation associated with rosacea and are most effective in relieving rosacea itch caused by skin care products. Strontium Calming Lotion, an over-the-counter product, not only relieves rosacea itch, but can also reduce the irritation that men with rosacea may get from shaving. Cool, moist compresses can often soothe itchy skin or you may find relief from rosacea itch using an over-the-counter antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl and other brands). Apply moisturizer often, particularly after bathing, but make sure the product doesn’t contain any irritating ingredients. Avoid using topical corticosteroids, such as hydrocortisone, because they only treat the itch, not the underlying cause. Additionally, long-term use of corticosteroids can have side effects, such as thinning of the skin, and may actually make your rosacea worse. It’s important to avoid excess touching, rubbing, and scratching of your skin to prevent spreading staph infection associated with Folliculitis. Keep fingernails short and clean to reduce damage to skin caused by scratching. How Your Dermatologist Can Help Consult with your dermatologist as soon as you experience any itching associated with rosacea. After determining the cause of your rosacea itch, your dermatologist may prescribe anti-itch medications or make other recommendations for relief. If your current rosacea medication is irritating your skin, a different product may be available. Let your dermatologists know about all of the skin care products and cosmetics you use, including prescriptions and over-the-counter treatments. It may help to actually bring these products with you to your appointment, so that your doctor can help identify any irritating, itch-inducing ingredients. Work as a team with your dermatologist to develop the ultimate plan for relief from rosacea itch.
