Top Rosacea Skincare Products Dermatologists Recommend

If you have rosacea, you know the importance of being mindful of the products you put on your skin. You’re more sensitive to certain ingredients than most people and may have flare-ups if you’re not careful.

Whether it’s finding everyday dermatologist-tested rosacea skin care products, or choosing treatments for rosacea that actually work, Forefront has you covered. We’ve compiled our list of favorites to help you look your best while keeping the worst of your rosacea symptoms at bay.

Rosacea and its Symptoms

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that can present as redness, visible blood vessels, inflammation, acne-like breakouts, or a bumpy or thickened skin texture. Several triggers can lead to flare-ups, such as stress, sun and heat, alcohol, hormonal changes, and diet. There is no cure, but there are products and treatments for rosacea that can help reduce its symptoms.

Ingredient Do’s and Don’ts

When choosing the best products, it’s important to understand which ingredients to look for and which to avoid. Over time, you should start to form a habit of reading labels any time you purchase cosmetics.

Gentle, dermatologist-recommended products will combat dryness, calm down the red flush that comes with rosacea, and have a cooling effect. Look for these beneficial ingredients and properties in your rosacea skin care products:

Hyaluronic acid. This powerful humectant attracts and binds water to the skin, helping to keep it hydrated and prevent dryness, which can exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
Azelaic acid. It helps by decreasing inflammation and killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin.
Ceramides. Ceramides calm and strengthen your skin barrier, reducing flare-ups and soothing inflammation.
Aloe. This natural ingredient has been known for centuries for its power to heal and soothe all types of skin irritation.
Niacinamide. Helps maintain an even complexion while reducing redness and swelling. Also stimulates the production of natural ceramides in the skin.
Zinc oxide, titanium oxide, or mineral-based sunscreen. Using chemical sunscreens makes skin more prone to irritation and allergic reactions. It also takes time to absorb into the skin and become effective. Mineral sunscreens are gentler and sit on top of the skin, meaning they start working against harmful rays immediately.

Some common additives are too harsh and will strip the skin’s natural oils and cause irritation. These harsh chemicals should be avoided:

Fragrances
Exfoliants and scrubs
Witch hazel and alcohol-based toners
Retinol
Alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid
Salicylic acid
Glycolic acid
Menthol, eucalyptus, or peppermint oil
Sodium lauryl sulfate
Chemical-based sunscreen

If you’re uncertain about the ingredients listed on any new rosacea skincare products, it’s best to check with your dermatologist first.

The Best Rosacea Skin Care Products

Because so many things can bother rosacea-prone skin, your skincare routine should be simple, consisting of a daily regimen that includes a cleanser, moisturizer, serum, and sunscreen. The fewer ingredients you introduce to your face, the less likely you are to have a bad reaction. Here are our dermatologists’ favorite products:

Best Cleansers for Rosacea

Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser: This simple and inexpensive drugstore find uses purified water and glycerine for a clean, fresh, pH-balanced option.

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water: A gentle, non-irritating product that removes makeup without rubbing or harsh ingredients. Cucumber extract adds to its soothing properties.

Alastin Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream: Oat extract helps this creamy cleanser remove dirt and oil without stripping away the skin’s natural oils and moisture barrier.

Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face Cleanser for Sensitive Skin: Gently cleanse, calm, and hydrate your skin with this affordable product that is dye, fragrance, and alcohol-free.

Best Moisturizers for Rosacea

SkinCeuticals Redness Neutralizer: This product feels soothing as it tackles red patches and irritation. Chamomile extract acts as both an anti-inflammatory and moisturizing ingredient.

Clinique Redness Solutions Daily Relief Cream: This super-creamy option eases flare-ups while its slightly green tint neutralizes red skin tone.

La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer: Ceramides and niacinamide both work to calm rosacea and keep skin from drying and flaking. Added bonus: it’s great if you have acne too!

SkinFix Barrier+ Triple Lipid Peptide Face Cream: Hyaluronic acid, glycerine, and shea butter work together to repair the skin barrier. And peptides help to firm, making this a great moisturizer for mature skin.

Best Serums and Toners for Rosacea

Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner: This non-astringent toner is less acidic than most. Heartleaf calms the skin and panthenol helps to heal it.

Dr. Idriss The Depuffer Roll-On Serum: Ingredients like arnica, niacinamide, glycerin, and oat extract take on puffiness while soothing and moisturizing. Plus, its unique roller-ball feels great, especially if you keep it in the fridge!

The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension: This oil-free formula provides gentle exfoliation while reducing redness, dark spots, bumps, and acne blemishes.

Best Sunscreens for Rosacea

Lightsaver Activated Mineral Sunscreen SPF 33: Rich in antioxidants, this tinted, mineral sunscreen is also a great option for those with acne and hyperpigmentation.

Colorescience Sunforgettable Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50 Glow: This fragrance-free, mineral sunscreen leaves skin with a healthy glow.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen For Face SPF 50: Lightweight, fast-absorbing, and noncomedogenic, this mineral sunscreen works well for oily skin types. It’s also tinted to even out your skin tone.

Rosacea Treatments Beyond the Basics

If you’re living with rosacea, all of the above products will help combat the common symptoms when added to your daily skincare routine. For longer-lasting relief, you may want to consider one of the treatments offered at Forefront. We use a variety of laser treatments and therapies to address problems associated with rosacea such as visible blood vessels and uneven pigmentation, including:

A Forefront dermatologist will help guide you to the products and treatments that will have the greatest impact on your particular skin issues. Find a Forefront location near you.