A Holistic Approach To Rosacea & Sensitive Skin Conditions

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a challenging skin condition marked by persistent redness, inflammation, and sensitivity, often affecting the cheeks, nose, and other areas of the face. While it may appear similar to acne or other common skin concerns, rosacea can be unique for every person in its triggers and treatment approaches. This inflammatory condition can worsen over time, making it essential to understand its underlying causes and learn how to avoid triggers.

Rosacea has been linked to internal imbalances, which emphasizes the connection between your skin's health and holistic (whole body) well-being. We believe that the approach to rosacea should not just be about treating symptoms but should also be about supporting your body from the inside out. Sensitive skin conditions like rosacea (and eczema and/or sensitive skin) often require a multifaceted approach. Achieving overall skin balance can require a combination of soothing and natural skincare, a nourishing diet, and attention to both physical and mental well-being. I know, it may be annoying to hear, but there are usually no quick fixes when it comes to skin issues like rosacea because it’s your body communicating something deeper with you.

What Rosacea Looks Like

• Persistent redness, especially around the nose and cheeks
• Swelling and puffiness
• Acne-like bumps or pustules
• Burning or stinging sensations
• Visible or broken capillaries

Four Types of Rosacea

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR):

Facial redness, swelling, stinging sensations, and broken blood vessels, often centered on the face.

1. Papulopustular Rosacea: Resembling acne, this type causes red, oily skin with pus-filled bumps and broken capillaries. Women in their 40s and 50s can be more prone to this kind of rosacea.
2. Rhinophyma Rosacea: More common in men, this type thickens the skin on the nose, causing a bumpy texture, enlarged pores, and visible blood vessels.
3. Ocular Rosacea: 60% of individuals with rosacea struggle with this subtype. Its symptoms closely resemble those of seasonal allergies (though symptoms happen year-round), causing this type to often go undetected. It looks like redness, irritation, and a burning sensation around the eyelids.

What Causes Rosacea?

Rosacea is a complex condition with no apparent single cause, but it seems to be influenced by a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. While research shows some people may be more genetically prone to rosacea, external triggers and overall health can significantly impact how it displays itself and progresses.

The Role of Genetics

Genetics is often a hot topic when it comes to discussing this skin condition. It seems to play a key role in rosacea, especially among middle-aged women, most common in those of Celtic or Scandinavian ancestry. However, having a genetic bent towards this condition doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop it. For instance, I (Brier) have a lot of Celtic ancestry, and some Scandinavian as well. However, I haven't yet developed this skin condition. Perhaps I am predisposed, however, hopefully my holistic lifestyle choices will be enough to turn off the genetic switch that makes me more prone to this condition.

Remember, factors like stress, environment, diet, and overall lifestyle choices can influence how these genetic predispositions manifest.

Overactive Immune System and Inflammation

People with rosacea often have an immune system that works too hard, reacting to things that aren’t actually harmful. This overreaction causes inflammation, which is the body’s way of trying to protect itself. Normally, inflammation helps fight off illness or heal injuries, but in rosacea, it goes too far and shows up on the skin as redness, swelling, and irritation. Over time, this constant inflammation can make the skin more sensitive and worsen the symptoms you see.

So, aiding rosacea and similar skin concerns is linked to your immune system... a healthy immune system is linked to your gut... a healthy gut is linked to a nutrient-dense, healthy diet, a healthy state of mind, a healthy environment, and using healthy products on your body! It's all interconnected.

Other Contributing Factors

Gut Health:

When your gut isn’t in great shape, it can make inflammation and skin sensitivity worse.

Stress and Nerves:

Stress or an overactive nervous system can ramp up rosacea flare-ups.

Blood Vessels:

Inflamed or overly active blood vessels can cause redness and swelling.

Skin Microbes:

Things like bacteria and skin mites (like Demodex) can irritate the skin and make symptoms worse.

Acne-Prone Skin:

If you’re prone to acne, the extra sensitivity and bacteria buildup can add to rosacea triggers.

Common Triggers to Watch Out For

• Spicy foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Hot weather or environments
• Prolonged sun exposure
• Harsh or irritating skincare products

The Skin Microbiome Connection

Pylori: 

• Studies also show that the parasitic bacteria H pylori, known to cause stomach ulcers, is seen much more frequently in those with rosacea.

Demodex Skin Mites:

• Tiny skin mites called demodex have also been linked to rosacea. These microscopic critters live on everyone's skin, especially on the face, eyebrows, and eyelashes. Yeah, I know. Ew. Fun fact: if you wear makeup and your eye makeup seems to disappear on its own, these mites are likely the reason! Interestingly, people with rosacea tend to have a higher number of these mites, but the mites themselves aren’t the problem. The real issue comes from the bacteria they carry, known as bacillus oleronius. Uhg, sorry to be the one to inform you about the bugs on your face.

Holistic Tips for Managing Rosacea

Taking care of rosacea means supporting your skin with gentle, nourishing products while also making lifestyle changes that promote overall wellness.

Here’s just a few ways you can begin approaching your rosacea holistically:

Choose Natural, Nourishing, Gentle Ingredients

Protecting your skin barrier is key to managing rosacea. Avoid skincare products with harsh chemicals like sulfates, surfactants, synthetic fragrances, parabens, and preservatives, as these can strip your skin, further disrupt your already compromised skin, and increase irritation.

Great news: SBA guarantees you will never find any of these icky chemicals/irritants in our products. Instead, you'll find powerful, non-comedogenic, gentle, rosacea-aiding ingredients like rosehip oil, red raspberry seed oil, calendula oil, pomegranate seed oil, jojoba oil, argan oil, frankincense, and nilotica butter, just to name a few.

Keep reading to discover our top products for rosacea, along with real reviews from customers who have seen amazing results using our products to calm and care for their rosacea-prone skin!

Calm Your Nervous System
Stress is a major trigger for rosacea, so finding ways to manage it is crucial. Your nervous system plays a big role here. By shifting out of the "fight or flight" mode (sympathetic nervous system) and into "rest and digest" mode (parasympathetic nervous system), you can reduce cortisol spikes and inflammation.

Find stress-relief practices that work for you, whether it’s stretching, meditation, deep breathing, walking in nature, reading, or simply taking time to do something that deeply relaxes you. The more you prioritize stress management, the better your skin will feel.

Focus on a Nourishing Diet
What you eat has a huge impact on rosacea. Incorporate more nutrient-dense, whole foods and healthy fats into your meals to support your skin from the inside out. These foods help balance hormones, replenish essential vitamins, and reduce inflammation.

At the same time, start cutting back on foods that are known to increase inflammation, like gluten, refined sugars, alcohol, conventionally raised animal products (opt for pasture-raised instead), and highly processed oils (e.g., canola, safflower, cottonseed, soybean). By cleaning up your diet, you’re giving your skin the tools it needs to regenerate and thrive. Try to avoid putting anything into your body that would make healing more difficult!

Overall Well-Being
Managing rosacea isn’t just about what you put on your skin—it’s about creating a balanced lifestyle that supports your overall health. Small, consistent changes in your skincare routine, diet, and stress levels can make a big difference over time.

By taking a gentle, holistic approach, you’ll not only calm your rosacea but also promote better health and well-being across the board.

Top SBA Products to Calm and Support Rosacea and Why They Work!

Firming Serum
This serum is one of our most well-known products for those managing rosacea. This is because the blend of Rosehip Seed Oil, Argan Oil, Frankincense Essential Oil, Carrot Seed Oil, Australian Sandalwood Essential Oil, and Helichrysum Essential Oil is packed with ingredients renowned for soothing rosacea. Multiple scientific studies have shown that rosehip seed oil, rich in vitamins A and C, can reduce redness and support skin repair, while argan oil’s vitamin E content works hard to deeply hydrate the skin while strengthening the skin barrier without clogging pores. Frankincense and helichrysum essential oils are both clinically known for their anti-inflammatory properties, helping calm irritation and promote skin regeneration. Carrot seed oil also provides antioxidants that can help gently even skin tone, and Australian sandalwood essential oil contains anti-inflammatory effects as well. Together, these oils offer a gentle, scientifically supported, and natural remedy for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin.

Read what two SBA customers said about the Firming Serum:

• "Amazing! If you have rosacea, this serum does wonders. I was not sure at first about using it on my skin because my skin is so sensitive when it comes to applying anything on my face. I read all the ingredients and wow! It is packed with some awesome stuff. I have noticed a big difference in my skin since using this. I made the mistake of applying too much at first but once I realized you really do not need to go overboard with it, I liked it better. A little goes a long way! And it is only $30!!!? What a deal. That is not a lot especially when you consider how much money it is to go see the dermatologist and pay for all those special creams. Skip the doctors and just order this miracle serum. The ingredients are legit." - Ally
• "Great for rosacea! I have tried several things in the hopes that it would help with my rosacea, this product has been one (in addition to the Sweet Dreams Glow Balm) that has helped my skin so much! Would definitely recommend!" - Sarah

Awake Coffee Serum
This very special serum is one of our most gentle products to date. It combines the power of ingredients like Camellia Seed Oil, Indian Gooseberry Oil, Tamanu Oil, Castor Oil, Jojoba Oil, Sea Buckthorn Oil, and Cold-Pressed Virgin Coffee Oil to gently aid rosacea and similar conditions. Camellia seed oil is lightweight and packed with antioxidants to soothe irritation and protect against environmental stressors. Indian gooseberry oil is rich in vitamin C, which can help tone down redness and give an even skin tone. Tamanu oil, backed by studies for its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties, helps repair and calm inflamed skin. Castor oil is gently hydrating and locks moisture in to strengthen the skin barrier. Jojoba oil balances oil production and keeps skin hydrated without clogging pores. Sea buckthorn oil is full of omega fatty acids that reduce redness and support skin regeneration. Cold-pressed virgin coffee oil is a very unique ingredient and is full of antioxidants and polyphenols, which studies have shown to improve skin circulation and reduce puffiness.

Read what a few of our SBA customers said about the Awake Coffee Serum:

• "I absolutely love this stuff! My skin is extremely sensitive, and this is the only product and brand that actually works on my face." - Lauren S.
• "My extremely sensitive skin cannot handle most serums... however, this serum changed that. This is one of the only serums that my often red and irritated skin can handle. No breakouts, stinging, or burning when using this product. I'm hooked!" - Larissa N.

Renew Cleansing Oil
Gentle skincare is key for inflamed skin, and that includes your cleanser. Many "gentle" or "sensitive skin" labeled cleansers are packed full of chemicals that can easily inflame the skin and worsen this skin condition. However, our cleansing oil is for the most sensitive of skin and won’t strip your skin. Our blend of organic Hemp Seed Oil, Jojoba Oil, Grapeseed Oil, and Pomegranate Seed Oil is a powerhouse for rosacea-prone skin! These oils are all non-comedogenic, so they won’t clog your pores, making them perfect for sensitive and reactive skin. Hemp seed oil is rich in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, helping to calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier. Jojoba oil closely mimics your skin’s natural sebum, keeping it balanced and hydrated. Grapeseed oil is lightweight and full of antioxidants to reduce redness and soothe irritation, while pomegranate seed oil promotes cell repair and helps calm stressed skin. Studies back the anti-inflammatory and barrier-supporting properties of these oils, making this blend a gentle yet effective option for rosacea.

Since this is such a new product, reviews are still coming in. However, here's my personal testimonial for this product:

• "...let me say, this oil has been a game-changer for my very dry and sensitive skin… especially in the cold weather... I notice less breakouts and smoother skin as I regularly incorporate it into my routine. In particular, my fine line/wrinkle areas are greatly reduced due to how hydrated my skin is when I use this as the first step in my cleansing routine. I will also add that I’ve recently been going through a bout of acne on my chin and forehead area (very unusual for me) and my skin has been very sensitive and extra dry lately. I’ve been using this oil at night when I cleanse and it has greatly helped my current problem areas. I was wondering how my unusual acne spots would react to this oil, and so far it’s been super helpful and my skin is clearing." - Brier C. (oh hey, it's me!)

Balancing Toner Mist
The Balancing Toner Mist is designed to help maintain and restore your skin's natural pH and support a healthy acid mantle, making this a great toning option for rosacea-prone and sensitive skin. For those combating rosacea, supporting your skin pH and acid mantle is essential for achieving your best skin. Featuring all organic ingredients like Witch Hazel, White Rose Hydrosol, Lavender Hydrosol, Lavender Essential Oil, and Frankincense Essential Oil, this toner has sensitive skin in mind. Witch hazel offers anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to help calm redness and irritation. White rose and lavender hydrosols hydrate the skin while aiding a balanced skin microbiome, which is crucial for sensitive skin conditions. Lavender and frankincense essential oils are famous for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help repair and reduce skin sensitivity. This lightweight mist not only tones but also strengthens the skin barrier and primes your skincare for optimal absorption.

Read what a few of our SBA customers said about the Balancing Toner Mist:

• "So Fresh! I’ve been using this for 2 days and already feel my face being softer and the rosacea I deal with seems to be lightening in color. I’m anxious to see what it looks like as time goes on." - Hannah T.
• "I have very sensitive skin so I have never been able to use toners because they would sting my skin or make my face burn with heat and leave me with flaming red cheeks for the rest of the day. This is the first toner (ever) that I have been able to use that works for me and it just feels sooo soothing. My only complaint is that this Balancing Toner Mist is so refreshing that it can be extremely addictive!! I swear I just sit around daydreaming of giving myself another little spritz of the stuff. Such a relaxing, soothing smell and makes your face, neck, and décolleté feel very clean and refreshed. ¡Bien refrescante!" - C R.
• "Fav! Been using for a month and LOVE. I have a specific cleanser that I like, and this pairs great with it! My skin has had noticeably less red and inflamed. Thank you, Chelsea, for such awesome products that I can trust!" - Morgan H.

Sweet Dreams Glow Balm
The Sweet Dreams Glow Balm, made with wild-harvested and organic ingredients, is a nourishing powerhouse for anyone dealing with any kind of sensitive skin issues. Raw Shea Butter is packed full of fatty acids, which are essential for approaching skin repair. It's deeply hydrating, protective, and helps to support the skin barrier. Wild Harvest Alkanet Root Oil is very rich in natural antioxidants and is renowned for its ability to calm irritated skin. Prickly Pear Seed Oil and Pomegranate Seed Oil are both powerhouses when it comes to vitamins and essential fatty acids and have been clinically shown to reduce inflammation, repair skin, and support overall skin health due to their immense level of nutrients. Borage Seed Oil stands out for its incredibly high gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content, which has been studied and praised for its ability to calm redness and hydrate sensitive skin. Beeswax helps lock in moisture while protecting the skin, and Rosemary CO2 Extract not only helps this product last longer as a natural preservative but also contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that are good for aiding skin irritation. This balm is one of our best for any kind of sensitive skin!

Read what a few of our SBA customers said about the Glow Balm:

• "The Balm hydrates my skin unlike any other, all while not leaving it super oily. I have rosacea and it calms the skin down after a flare-up. I feel like it also gives my skin a shine, could just be me! I love it!" - Sabrina S.
• "This has played a HUGE role in healing my rosacea acne. Anytime I have a flare-up, I use my purifying oil/blemish balm and finish off with this glow balm before bed, and it's completely calmed down by morning. If you have rosacea acne, you know the flare-ups just get more angry the next day and take weeks to heal! I even use this in the daytime... in the winter it's a must. It's so healing and calming. I've been using it for 10 months now... and I don't ever want to go without it. Thank you for all of your dedication in making beautiful products that really work!" - Rebekka
• "I have super sensitive skin and normally have a bit of rosacea-type redness on my forehead. That is all gone now! It also doesn't clog my pores (I use it at night on top of Neem oil & don't even have to wash my face the next morning!) The Sweet Dreams Glow Balm is now a part of my nightly routine and has even replaced my other $120 moisturizer I used to use. Do yourself a favor and try this stuff - it's amazing and it works!" - Jenny L.

Baby & Mom Balm

The Baby and Mom Balm is perfect for aiding a host of skin sensitivities and is made with the most delicate parts of our bodies in mind. From baby bum rashes, eczema, and baby acne, to nipples cracked and irritated from nursing and pumping, to skin irritations, mild cuts and burns, to stretch marks on growing bellies, this is your balm to use. It's crafted with extremely gentle, organic, and wild-harvested ingredients, and works in several ways at once to help soothe and nourishing compromised skin. Our Nilotica Butter is of the highest quality, ethically sourced, and renowned for its ability to soothe irritated and compromised skin. We infuse it with Chamomile and Calendula Flowers to enhance its benefits even more, providing deep hydration, boosting collagen production, and supporting tissue repair. This powerful combination helps reduce redness, minimize the appearance of scars, and improve your overall skin texture. Mango Butter adds a boost of moisture and supports the skin’s natural barrier with its high levels of vitamin A, E, C, fatty acids and antioxidants. The Olive Oil Herbal Infusion, featuring Lavender Flower, St. John’s Wort, and Marshmallow Root, is intentionally crafted to with anti-inflammatory and restorative properties to soothe, repair, and protect sensitive or irritated skin.

Read what a few of our SBA customers said about the Baby & Mom Balm:

Daydream Mineral SPF
If you have skin sensitivities, you know how sun exposure can be a huge trigger for further inflammation, discomfort, and redness. The Daydream Mineral SPF is made with the most sensitive of skin in mind and is handcrafted with wild-harvested and organic ingredients, offering non-comedogenic, gentle, effective sun protection. It's packed full of ingredients that help regenerate and restore while protecting your skin from broad-spectrum UV rays that could further irritate skin suffering from sensitivities like rosacea. Babassu Oil provides lightweight moisture without clogging pores, and Non-nano Zinc Oxide is known for its broad-spectrum UV protection, without all the nasty chemicals from other types of sun-blocking ingredients conventionally used in over-the-counter sunscreens. Raspberry Seed Oil and Blackberry Seed Oil are packed full of powerful antioxidants and natural SPF-like qualities, helping to further restore and protect the skin. Beeswax and Shea Butter create a non-comedogenic and breathable barrier that locks in moisture and protects the skin’s mantle. Pomegranate Seed Oil, rich in antioxidants and punicic acid, is essential for those struggling with rosacea and skin sensitivities. It's all about natural, high-quality, protective, antioxidant-rich, and gentle ingredients when approaching rosacea.

Read what a few of our SBA customers say about the Daydream Mineral SPF:

• "Living in the Midwest with very dry winters, this moisturizer has helped a ton with my usually very dry skin in winter. I love that it has natural sunscreen as well since I run outdoors all year long. It keeps my skin from drying out, doesn't feel super oily, and also seems to help with my rosacea. Considering the small size of the container, it lasts for a long time. You only need a very small amount each time. I highly recommend!" - Crista
• "Pleasantly surprised! I have rosacea and my skin is very sensitive. I wanted a healthier option for a sunblock. This product is wonderful! It doesn’t sting or give me a rash. It doesn’t leave a white cast on my skin. It's the best!" - Nicole M.
• "I have been using this product for about 2 years and I am so grateful as someone with very sensitive skin that this actually works and feels soooo good on my skin. I love all of Skin Balm Apothecary’s products." - Mallory

Blue Tansy Ultra Rich Moisturizer
Our most deeply hydrating moisturizer to date, it's a calming blend crafted with organic ingredients to soothe and restore sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. Flaxseed Glycerin attracts and locks in moisture to the face to support a healthy, balanced skin barrier. Mango Butter, packed with vitamins A, C, and E, provides ultra-deep nourishment and helps repair damaged or irritated skin. Hyaluronic Acid is a hydration powerhouse, binding moisture to the skin for long-lasting plumpness and reduced redness. Nilotica Butter, ethically sourced and packed with anti-inflammatory properties, works to calm irritation and promote skin repair and healthy cell turnover. Raspberry Seed Oil, rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids, is known to soothe redness and protect against environmental stressors. Camellia Oil, lightweight and nutrient-rich, softens skin while delivering a boost of antioxidants to fight inflammation and improve skin texture. With a low acid content, this moisturizer is ideal for those with sensitive skin types and conditions.

Read what a few of our SBA customers say about the Blue Tansy HA Moisturizer:

• "I use Blue Tansy during the colder months for an extra rich moisturizer. It’s thicker than the repair cream (my fave for the hotter months). Blue Tansy has a sweet scent and cool feeling. Sometimes I use it for other parts of my body because of the clean ingredients. I have rosacea and both creams have helped my skin so much. One jar lasts me about 8 months." - Donna O.
• "I really love the Blue Tansy Moisturizer a lot!! Was worried that it would break me out since I have sensitive skin but it doesn’t. It makes my skin so soft after putting it on and it also smells so good. Definitely will be buying it again." - Megan
• "I have very sensitive skin and very dry skin. This has helped tremendously already! I can’t wait to see the long-term changes! And it feels good to know it’s not a bunch of chemicals going on my skin!" - Darla Faye
• "I also have sensitive skin so I'm always afraid to try new products. I am so glad I took a chance on this Blue Tansy moisturizer. I have been using it for a few weeks and have had no issues with breakouts or allergic reactions. I definitely plan to continue using it." - Sarah S.

In Conclusion

Taking care of rosacea and sensitive skin isn’t just about what you put on your skin... it’s about caring for yourself as a whole! From using gentle, natural products that nourish and protect your skin to focusing on stress management, gut health, and eating foods that fuel you, it all works together. As we learned, having a skincare routine intentionally geared towards reducing inflammation and rejuvenating the skin with gentle, natural ingredients is essential. Calming balms, soothing toners, and reparative oils can make a huge difference in reducing redness and irritation while giving your skin the boost it needs to be at its best.

Most of all, remember that when you treat your body and mind well, your skin follows suit. It's all interconnected.

You got this!

-Brier C.

 

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or dermatologist with any questions or concerns about a medical condition like rosacea. The information provided here is based on general research and is not a substitute for professional medical guidance.