Recent research suggests that rosacea, a common, chronic skin condition affecting 16 million Americans, may be linked to negative effects on the body as a whole, not just the face. It’s believed that possibly due to its inflammatory nature, people with rosacea are at an increased risk of a number of other serious health related issues, including cardiovascular disease and other forms of vascular disease, much like psoriasis patients. Researchers have also linked rosacea to an increased risk of gastrointestinal disease and skin cancer. If left untreated, rosacea can worsen.
In an effort to support the millions of people nationwide suffering from rosacea, in April (Global Rosacea Awareness Month), Galderma and the National Rosacea Society (NRS) joined forces to promote greater public understanding of this widespread skin condition and to help sufferers better recognize the symptoms of rosacea and seek professional help. The two launched the third annual Break Up with Your Makeup campaign, an educational campaign and contest empowering those with rosacea to stop concealing symptoms and start treating the condition, so that they can feel more confident in their skin. “Everyone wants to feel confident, but covering up blemishes is a quick fix —not a long-term solution. Some over-the-counter remedies and harsh makeups can actually make the sensitive skin of rosacea worse,” says Doris Day, M.D., nationally recognized dermatologist, Galderma consultant, and campaign spokesperson. “It’s important for anyone struggling with tough skin days to speak to a dermatologist about finding a treatment that’s right for them.”
People age 18 and older submitted no-makeup selfies along with a brief personal skin story through the Break Up with Your Makeup digital hub for a chance to win an all-expenses paid spa getaway for two in sunny Los Angeles. The hub also includes a number of helpful resources including skincare tips and a doctor’s discussion guide to assist those who may have rosacea in finding the right solution for their skin. “We’ve long believed that the complications of rosacea are more than just skin deep, but this new research underscores the importance of recognizing the early warning signs of this chronic and often misdiagnosed skin disease,” says Mary Erhard, director of medical communications for the NRS. “We are excited to continue our participation in Galderma’s Break Up with Your Makeup initiative, which provides educational resources and encourages potential sufferers to seek diagnosis and appropriate treatment as soon as possible.”