Aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf extract offers people with rosacea the reassurance of a time-tested natural approach to managing their symptoms. Rosacea: What It Is and Why It Happens Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition. While the most common sign of this condition is redness and flushing, the symptoms can also include

• Acne-like bumps
• Skin thickening
• Red patches
• Eye irritation
• Swelling
• Itching and stinging

The exact causes of rosacea are unknown; however, research suggests that factors such as sun damage, increased dilation of blood vessels, skin bacteria, and irritated follicles may contribute to its development. A variety of environmental and lifestyle factors may also promote flare-ups. A Synergistic Blend of Healing Nutrients Aloe vera's effectiveness as a rosacea treatment comes from a rich store of nutrients that work together to help control inflammation, heal sun damage, prevent infection, and soothe irritation. These beneficial compounds include

• salicylic acid
• essential amino acids
• enzymes
• antioxidant vitamins
• minerals
• fatty acids
• saporins (a cleansing substance with anti-bacterial properties)
• simple and complex sugars that help regulate the immune response and cell metabolism

An Ounce of Prevention In addition to incorporating aloe vera into your skin care routine, successful management of rosacea requires awareness of the factors trigger your symptoms. These can include

• Spicy dishes
• Extreme weather
• Hot drinks
• Emotional stress
• Wind
• Intense physical exertion
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Steroids and medications that dilate blood vessels
• Harsh skincare ingredients such as alcohol-based astringents and fragrances

Restoring Clear, Healthy Skin Good nutrition, regular exercise, stress reduction, and plenty of sleep  are fundamental to successful rosacea management. You may also be able to reduce the frequency of flare-ups by identifying foods that trigger your symptoms and adjusting your diet accordingly. Gentle skincare is also a must for people with rosacea. Soap, hot water, and scrubbing your complexion are particularly damaging to this type of skin. The right skincare products are absolutely essential. Products should be 100% free of potentially irritating synthetic chemicals. Look for balanced organic formulas that contain a healthy dose of aloe vera leaf extract and other calming ingredients such as white tea, rosemary, and rosehip oil to keep your sensitive complexion in tip-top shape. Learn more about this gentle yet powerful skincare ingredient-including its anti-aging properties in Aloe Vera Pt. I and Pt. II.