There are several alternative treatments for rosacea that may be beneficial in treating this skin disorder, although it may take a bit of trial and error to find the best choices for an individual situation. Some of the most popular alternative treatments for rosacea include dietary changes, cool compresses, and hypnotherapy. Herbal therapy is frequently used to treat rosacea, with some of the most commonly used herbs being green tea, licorice, and tea tree oil. Alternative treatments for rosacea should not replace traditional medical treatment, and a doctor or other medical professional should be consulted with any specific questions or concerns.
Dietary modification is among the most commonly used alternative treatments for rosacea. Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach or asparagus are thought to help strengthen the capillaries, perhaps reducing the appearance of rosacea symptoms. Additional foods that my help improve the symptoms of this skin disorder include salmon, grape juice, and peanuts. Dietary supplements such as B-complex, zinc, and vitamin E may also be helpful.
The use of cool compresses on the affected areas of the face may help the redness and inflammation go away, but caution should be used when employing this method of treatment. Ice should not directly touch the face, as it can cause damage to the skin. Instead, a washcloth soaked in ice water may be a better choice. Hypnotherapy is also among the possible alternative treatments for rosacea and uses hypnosis to attempt to change the body's response to stress. The symptoms of rosacea tend to increase during stressful situations, and many people have had positive results from the use of hypnotherapy.
Herbal therapy is highly popular among those who prefer to use natural or alternative treatments for rosacea. These herbal remedies can be used in the form of a tea, as oral capsules, or added to cosmetic products such as creams or lotions. Green tea may help to reduce sun sensitivity while soothing and healing the skin. Licorice may help to reduce the redness associated with rosacea, although it may take several weeks to notice a difference. Tea tree oil helps to reduce inflammation while protecting the skin from pathogens that could cause infection.
Most people do not experience any significant complications as a result of using alternative treatments for rosacea, but it is still wise to check with a doctor before beginning a new treatment program. Some herbs may not interact well with certain medications or may not be recommended for people with certain medical conditions. Any new symptoms that develop after beginning a new treatment program should be reported to a doctor if they persist or become bothersome.