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Dealing with common skin complaints

Worried about that blotch or dry, flaky patch? Relax, you're not alone - we've uncovered some of the more common skin problems and how you can deal with them

Find out more about:

• Rosacea
• Eczema
• Milia (whiteheads)
• Psoriasis
• Uneven pigment
• Dilated capillaries

Rosacea
What is it: If you have a history of blushing, or if your face flushes after a glass of wine, you may be in the first stages of rosacea. In addition, environmental pollutants, too much sun and hormonal changes can all trigger rosacea, which is characterised by a red, uneven complexion and broken veins. This common condition is predominant in women and Celtic skin types with red or fair hair, and blue or green eyes - and accounts for about one to three per cent of hospital consultations. Sources of heat tend to aggravate the disorder, and people with fragile, sensitive or reactive skins are also prone to rosacea.
How to treat it: Conventional treatment is with oral and topical antibiotics, while tuneable dye laser treatment is offered privately. Leading dermatologist Dr Tim Cutler comments: 'Redness, and rosacea in particular, affects thousands of people but there are currently insufficient products available in the UK to deal with the condition'. However, we have tracked down a few, including Eau Thermale Avene's two new moisturizers, and Diroseal treatment cream, £21 for 30ml, which reduces the formation of new blood vessels and helps thicken the epidermis (available from April: 0845 117 0116). Prescriptives PX Custom Concentrates Redness Relief Gel, £37 (01730 232566), soothes red, irritated skin with a highly concentrated patented complex, and the Organic Pharmacy (020 7351 2232) has a Rosacea Tincture, from £4.50 for 7g, containing antioxidant and hormone-balancing milk thistle, red clover, bilberry and rosemary.
Nutritional tips from Penny Povey, naturopath at Farmacia Urban Healing (020 7831 0830): Avoid chocolate, cow's milk, sugars and drinks that induce facial flushing. Eat plenty of raw vegetables and fruit.
Supplements: Antioxidants, essential fatty acids and digestive enzymes.
Herbs: Echinacea.

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