My Rosacea Journey
From Rosy Cheeks to Rose Gardens
When Life Hands You Rosacea Instead of Roses
Turning 50 is often celebrated as a milestone of wisdom and self-assuredness. For me, however, it marked the onset of an unexpected adversary: rosacea. By the time I reached 52, my face had transformed into a canvas of persistent redness and sporadic flare-ups, resembling a blooming rose garden. Each morning became a suspenseful ritual—would I wake up to a mild flush or a full-fledged outbreak? The unpredictability was both physically uncomfortable and emotionally draining.
Rosacea is more than just a cosmetic concern; it's a chronic skin condition that affects an estimated 415 million people worldwide. Characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps, rosacea can significantly impact one's quality of life. Triggers vary from person to person but often include sunlight, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and extreme temperatures. In my case, it seemed that merely existing was enough to provoke a flare-up.
The Medical Merry-Go-Round: Antibiotics and Temporary Fixes
Seeking relief, I embarked on the conventional path to dermatologists. Oral and topical antibiotics became my constant companions. Initially, these medications seemed like miracle workers, reducing inflammation and calming the redness. However, the relief was fleeting. After each course of antibiotics ended, the rosacea would return, sometimes with greater intensity. It felt like a relentless game of whack-a-mole, treating symptoms without addressing the underlying issue.
I began to question whether relying solely on antibiotics was a healthy strategy for managing my condition.
I was determined to find out what had happened; there had to be a way to regain the lovely skin I once had.
Venturing into an Unconventional Approach
Frustrated with the cyclical nature of my treatment, I decided to explore alternative therapies.
I overhauled my diet based on the guidance of Paula Heinonen, a renowned Finnish nutritionist known for her holistic approach to wellness. Eliminating cow's milk, gluten, and ingredients to which I am intolerant, I focused on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and probiotics.
Simultaneously, I embraced acupuncture under the expertise of Eili Grey, a respected figure in Finnish acupuncture circles. While acupuncture's efficacy for rosacea isn't extensively documented in scientific literature, some studies suggest it may help reduce inflammation and stress, potentially alleviating symptoms.
I also incorporated lymphatic drainage massage to reduce facial swelling and improve circulation. This technique is designed to stimulate the lymphatic system, aiding in the removal of toxins and excess fluids. Though more commonly associated with conditions like lymphedema, some believe it can benefit skin conditions by promoting detoxification.
Lastly, I used only my own Niki Newd skincare products topically, nothing else!
A Year of Grit and Grace: The Finnish 'Sisu' in Action
Embarking on this holistic journey required immense patience and perseverance—qualities encapsulated by the Finnish concept of "sisu," which translates to determination and resilience. Over the course of a year and four months, I adhered strictly to my new regimen. There were moments when I doubted whether any of this was making a difference, but luckily, I took photos along the way and saw that progress was occurring every few weeks, and the situation began to improve.
Consistency was key. Regular consultations with my nutritionist ensured that my diet remained balanced and supportive of my skin health. Acupuncture sessions became a weekly ritual, providing not just potential physical benefits but also mental clarity and stress relief. The lymphatic drainage treatments, both professional sessions and at-home facial lymph drainage exercises following my lymph therapist's instructions, complemented these efforts by promoting overall well-being. (I plan to share these exercises at some point.)
Using Niki Newd products exclusively allowed me to avoid potential irritants found in conventional skincare. Our products are crafted with fresh emphasizing purity and simplicity. By eliminating synthetic fragrances, preservatives, and harsh chemicals the risk of triggering additional skin irritation can be reduced.
Throughout this period, I kept a journal to track my symptoms, treatments, and emotional state. It served as a source of motivation, documenting the gradual improvements that might have otherwise gone unnoticed.
My Skincare Routine: Nourishing the Skin Naturally
Many have asked me what kind of skincare routine I would recommend. Having navigated the deep waters of rosacea myself, I have crafted a skincare regimen based on my personal journey and experiences. I am happy to share with you my own rosacea skincare routine.
In the Morning:
I prioritize simplicity and gentleness to prepare my skin for the day ahead.
Skip Cleansing Unless Necessary: Unless you live in a highly polluted area, there's no need to cleanse your skin in the morning. Over-cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased sensitivity.
Direct Application of Skincare Products: Apply your skincare products directly to your skin without prior cleansing. This approach preserves the skin's natural barrier and maintains its moisture balance.
-
Choose:
- For Highly Irritated Skin: If your skin is very irritated due to rosacea, I recommend using the Graceful Mama Nurturing Oil . This oil is formulated with calming ingredients like calendula and chamomile extracts, which have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- For Occasional Flare-Ups: If you experience rosacea here and there, I suggest mixing Skin Cream and Skin Oil. The combination provides balanced hydration and delivers essential fatty acids and antioxidants to support skin health.
Sun Protection.
In the Evening:
Evening is the time to gently cleanse and rejuvenate your skin, removing the day's impurities.
Gentle Cleansing is Essential: Gentle cleansing is the cornerstone of the evening routine. It's crucial to remove pollutants, makeup, and sunscreen without aggravating the skin.
Cleanse with Oatmeal Soap: Use the Oatmeal Soap from Niki Newd. Its soft foam cleanses delicately while leaving a moisturized surface. Oatmeal contains saponins, which have natural cleansing properties, and its anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce redness and irritation.
-
Apply Skincare Products:
- For Irritated Skin: Again, opt for the Graceful Mama Nurturing Oil to soothe and nourish your skin overnight.
- For Maintenance: Use the Skin Cream and Skin Oil mixture to hydrate and repair the skin barrier, providing essential nutrients during the skin's natural regeneration process at night.
A Rosy Conclusion
Today, my skin is glowing and I feel more in control of my condition. This journey taught me that managing rosacea requires a holistic approach, addressing both internal and external factors. It's about more than just treating the skin; it's about nurturing also the body.
To all those navigating the challenges of rosacea, remember that while there's no one-size-fits-all solution, exploring different avenues can lead to meaningful improvements. Embrace your own "sisu," listen to your body, and don't be afraid to seek out new paths to wellness.
