8 Best Serums For Rosacea, According To A Licensed Esthetician – 2024
Sensitive skin needs sensitive products like these careful yet effective formulations.
Brianne Larrabee is a licensed esthetician with over 12 years of experience. She specializes in clean beauty and has a special interest in holistic approaches. She spent several years as a working esthetician before changing her focus to education. She has been featured in various publications on clean skin care and strives to educate the public on the importance of combining skin care, a clean diet, and elimination of harmful ingredients for healthy, glowing skin.
Read full bio of Brianne Larrabee
Experience: 4 yearsShiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 8 yearsArshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.
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Rosacea, a chronic skin condition, causes inflammation and turns the skin red and agitated. Many products are made for sensitive skin that help keep your skin from getting irritated. But if you are looking for the best serum for rosacea management, keep reading.
Broken blood capillaries and excess heat cause the skin to become inflamed and lead to rosacea, an inflammatory skin condition. Although not harmful, this condition causes most people with rosacea, particularly those with fair skin or a darker skin type, to feel embarrassed, socially anxious, and uncomfortable. Common rosacea symptoms are blotchy and flushed skin paired with red bumps. You may also notice some tingling or burning sensations.
While there is no definitive cure for rosacea, avoiding the triggers that cause it, such as environmental stressors like sun exposure, can help manage this condition. Some of the triggers are specific food products, stress, sun exposure, irritants and allergens, and harsh skin care products.
Because of their highly sensitive skin, people with rosacea need to be careful about the products they use. When it comes to choosing the right serum for rosacea-prone skin, thorough testing and evaluation are essential. These gentle products, made specifically to help manage rosacea, contain powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients that relieve the skin from irritation. A few of these also have ingredients that are clinically tested and can aid in effective rosacea management and calm redness. They raise the cell turnover rate and rejuvenate and repair the skin’s natural barrier. Some of these products also have anti-aging and hydration benefits and are made with dermatologically-approved ingredients that soothe rosacea. Using these serums regularly improves your skin color and texture and helps prevent any breakouts. Scroll down and take a look at the 8 best serums for rosacea that can protect against free radical damage, regulate oil production, and reinforce the compromised skin barrier.
In This Article
8 Best Serums For Rosacea
1. Best Oil-Free Fomula:Dermaced Redness Redux Serum For Rosacea & Skin Redness
Dermaced Redness Redux Serum is an advanced formula that treats skin redness, inflammation, and rosacea. It contains an active anti-inflammatory protein called Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), a scientifically formulated compound that promotes healthy skin rejuvenation and cell growth. This serum also contains other anti-inflammatory ingredients such as soothing aloe vera polysaccharides. The healing sea kelp bioferment in this serum is rich in natural peptides and amino acids that repair collagen and rebuild skin cells. It also does not strip away the natural oils from the skin and maintains the skin microbiome. This ever-calm anti-redness serum contains natural ingredients like green tea and pomegranate extract which are powerful anti-aging antioxidants that scavenge free radicals released due to oxidation or sun damage. These key ingredients work synergistically to fight the irritants and allergens that cause inflammation and chronic redness. This anti-aging product also contains hyaluronic acid that provides intense hydration to the skin which helps in adding bounce and plumpness to it. Thus, it makes dry skin look soft and youthful. The product is backed by positive reviews and recommendations.
Also Recommended By: Buzzfeed has also listed Dermaced Redness Redux Serum For Rosacea & Skin Redness in their top 10.[1]40 Beauty Products That People Who Have Rosacea Swear By. Buzzfeed. https://www.buzzfeed.com/elizabethlilly/beauty-products-rosacea
Pros
- Repairs damaged skin
- Moisturizes the skin
- Anti-aging formula
- Does not make the skin oily
- Reduces inflammation
- Softens the skin
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol and methylparaben
Quick Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has received 3,231 reviews from customers on Amazon, indicating its popularity and reliability.
2. Best For Sensitive Skin:La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum
La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum is a hydrating professional-grade serum that is specially formulated to treat various types of rosacea symptoms such as redness and inflammation. It is an intense concentrate of 3 active ingredients – Ambophenol, Neurosensine, and thermal spring water. These actives work efficiently on sensitive skin to reduce the redness caused by inflammation and irritation. Ambophenol is a polyphenol that constricts the blood vessels and strengthens their walls to reduce redness caused by visible blood vessels. Neurosensine has a soothing effect on the skin. Thermal spring water is rich in nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants that help in restoring the skin’s natural radiance and color. The light reflectors in the serum also help in mattifying the skin so that it does not look flushed. This dermatologist-recommended, light and fresh gel can be used regularly as it is free from preservatives, fragrances, and harmful chemicals. This expert-recommended antioxidant serum comes in sterile packaging that prevents contamination and infections in sensitive skin types. For individuals experiencing the appearance of redness and irritated skin due to rosacea, La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum offers a scientifically formulated solution that contributes to a more comfortable and confident complexion. This product has received a good number of reviews due to positive people’s experiences.
Also Recommended By: Experts at Nymag also think highly of La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum.[2]The 16 Very Best Skin-Care Products for Redness and Rosacea. Nymag. https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-skincare-products-for-redness-and-rosacea.html
Pros
- Tested on sensitive skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Fragrance-free
- Preservative-free
- Paraben-free
- Alcohol-free
- Colorant-free
- Suitable for all skin types
- No risk of contamination
- Non-oily
- Non-comedogenic
- Lightweight
- Recommended by dermatologists
Cons
- Expensive
Pro TipWhy We Think It's Worth Buying
More than 325 Amazon users have vouched for this amazing product.
3. Best Anti-Aging Benefits:Rosadyn Soothing CoQ10 Facial Serum
The Rosadyn Soothing CoQ10 Facial Serum is an amazing product that serves as a moisturizing serum, designed to target and eliminate rosacea from its root causes. It treats many rosacea symptoms such as broken capillaries, ocular rosacea, flushing, blemishes, and acne. It is an anti-aging serum that diminishes various signs of aging, giving the skin a youthful appearance without irritating or bothering your sensitive skin issues. The enriching formula of CoQ10, DMAE, and hyaluronic acid is scientifically formulated and repairs the skin effectively. It moisturizes thoroughly without making your skin greasy or sticky. Skin-friendly and dermatologically-approved ingredients like vitamins A, B, C, Retinol, carrot oil, and polyphenols provide anti-aging benefits to the skin, reducing wrinkles and fine lines to preserve its natural health and firmness. The gentle aloe vera base of this professional-grade solution soothes the irritated rosacea skin to provide comfort and relief. This ultra-calming gel serum can be used regularly as it is free from parabens, phthalates, fragrances, sulfates, and petroleum. By protecting against free radical damage and regulating oil production, this serum proves to be an essential component of your skincare routine, contributing to a healthier, rejuvenated complexion. Some reviewers have mentioned that the product offers visible results with regular usage.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Non-allergenic
- Free from harsh chemicals and irritants
- Dermatologist-tested
- Natural and organic ingredients
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Sulphate-free
- Petroleum-free
- No added fragrance
- Suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Cons
- None
"This face serum offers relief to my stressed skin. It calms redness and treats sensitive issues immediately. Its hydrating composition nourishes my skin and boosts its radiance. I like that it does not aggravate itchiness like other serums."
Quick Tip| Dermaced Redness Redux Serum For Rosacea & Skin Redness Best Oil-Free Fomula | La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum Best For Sensitive Skin | Rosadyn Soothing CoQ10 Facial Serum Best Anti-Aging Benefits | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | Combination | - | Sensitive |
| Dimensions | 1 x 1 x 4 inches | 1.38 x 1.38 x 5.5 inches | 1.5 x 1.5 x 5 inches |
| Weight | 2.82 Ounces | 1.28 Ounces | 2.4 Ounces. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 3,231 | 325 | 171 |
| Price | $34.0 | $41.99 | $21.95 |
4. Best For Spot Treatment:Osmosis Skincare Epidermal Repair Serum
Osmosis Skincare Epidermal Repair Serum targets multiple skin conditions such as rosacea, hyperpigmentation, age spots, cystic acne, and skin inflammation. It is perfect for treating dry, acne-prone, aging, sensitive, irritated, blemish-prone, and pigmented skin. It contains trioxolane, an oriental herb extracted from sweet wormwood that can soothe inflamed skin, activate epidermal wound healing, and neutralize toxins. This helps in increasing the production of collagen and elastin, which in turn improves the elasticity and resilience of the skin. This repair serum also contains niacinamide and phosphatidylcholine that balance the oil, restore the skin barrier, and protect the skin from the sun. It reduces age spots and minimizes the appearance of pores so that your skin has an even texture and glowing complexion, making it a favorite product among many. This serum also has positive reviews from many popular reviewers and estheticians for making a huge difference with regular use over time.
Brianne Larrabee, a Licensed Esthetician, recommends this product saying, “This serum has some great ingredients that are perfect for those dealing with more than just rosacea. It is very beneficial to sensitive skin because it reduces the need for using multiple products that could be too overwhelming.”
Pros
- Improves skin texture and skin tone
- Tightens the skin
- Prevents skin damage
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Anti-aging formula
- Restores the skin barrier
- Repairs and heals the skin
- Reduces inflammation
- Minimizes the appearance of pores
- Can be used as a spot treatment
- Suitable for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Expensive
"This serum has worked wonders for my acne-prone skin. It eliminates blemishes from my skin and evens out my skin tone. It reduces redness and nourishes my skin without triggering acne issues. The formula layers well under my makeup and never smudges my foundation."
Caution5. Best Organic Formula:Made From Earth Rosacea Skincare Set
This rosacea skin care set consists of a green tea face cleanser and a rosehip face serum that are formulated for calming rosacea and redness relief. The organic plant extracts of aloe vera, honey, green tea, grapeseed, chamomile, witch hazel, hibiscus, lavender, and neem have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and astringent properties that soothe the skin. The gentle, non-abrasive cleanser removes dead skin cells, bacteria, makeup, dirt, and excess oil on the skin. The organic serum soothes redness and repairs broken blood capillaries that cause flushing or inflammation. This rosehip serum is rich in nutrients like omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and vitamins A, E, and C that restore, repair, and rejuvenate the skin. Thus, this skin care set helps in cleansing and maintaining sensitive, rosacea-prone skin. This antioxidant serum is highly recommended as it does not contain irritants. This affordable serum is fast-acting and gives lasting results.
Pros
- Soothes the skin
- Repairs the skin
- Dermatologist-tested
- Cruelty-free
- Alcohol-free
- Hypoallergenic
- Petroleum-free
- Paraben-free
- No synthetic dyes or fragrances
- Gentle on the skin
- Prevents skin damage
- Organic and cold-pressed ingredients
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Contains phenoxyethanol
6. Best Blemish Control:Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum
Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum is an all-rounder, multipurpose serum that reduces the appearance of blemishes and acne, fades dark spots and acne scars from previous breakouts. This amazing product features a powerful combination of azelaic acid, a scientifically formulated compound and niacinamide to treat acne scars, hyperpigmentation, redness, and rosacea, improving the skin’s overall appearance. This hydrating serum leaves your skin feeling soft, smooth, and silky without any uneven texture. The thin and slippery texture dries quickly, making the skin appear plump and fresh, ready for makeup application. Its lightweight, oil-free texture feels gentle on the skin and gets easily mixed with other skin treatments. The gentle formula is suitable for all skin types, including those with a darker skin tone, and can be effortlessly combined with other skincare treatments. This Korean skincare serum is free from harsh chemicals and is safe and suitable for everyday use. It adds a touch of extra care that your skin deserves.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Oil-free
- Alcohol-free
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Might not suit sensitive skin
- Might cause breakouts in some people
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has made it to our top favorite list with more than 4,708 rave reviews on Amazon.
7. Best Antimicrobial Formula:SkinResource.MD R-Relief Serum
SkinResource.MD R-Relief Serum visibly reduces the signs of chronic inflammation, such as redness and sensitivity, that are often associated with rosacea. The four patented complexes derived from plant extracts are rich in bioactive peptides along with panthenol, pro-vitamin B5, and Copper PCA that make this serum extremely hydrating and effective. It calms the skin and prevents further aggravation of symptoms like flaky skin. It cools heat-activated skin, which in turn controls redness and blotchiness. The anti-swelling agents, such as sodium palmitoyl proline and methyl chalcone, reduce puffiness. This serum also inhibits lipase and unwanted microbial growth, which are triggers for rosacea. It is hydrating and gets absorbed quickly into the skin, leaving it looking supple, soft, and glowing. For those grappling with the symptoms of rosacea, this serum stands as an excellent choice to alleviate and manage their skin concerns effectively.
Pros
- Soothes the skin
- Hydrates the skin
- Reduces puffiness
- Prevents future flare-ups
- Antimicrobial properties
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Dermatologically tested and approved
- Suitable for dry, dehydrated skin
Cons
- May take time to show results
"This serum feels lightweight on my skin. It soothes my irritated skin and restores its original tone. I can apply it smoothly on my skin. My skin looks relaxed and feels soft after regular use of this formula. It absorbs quickly without leaving a sticky feeling."
8. Best For Summer Use:Skinception Rosacea Relief Serum
Skinception Rosacea Relief Serum has four clinically-proven actives that work together to reduce inflammation, prickling heat sensation, and redness and soothe the skin with their proven efficacy. This patented blend of peptides contains teprenone, a scientifically formulated synthetic derivative, (Renovage), Boerhaviadiffusaroot extract, Saccharomycescerevisiae extract (Actiflow), and vitamin U (Allantoin). These clinically -proven star ingredients improve skin barrier function, hydration, firmness, elasticity, and blood circulation. They also slough off dead skin cells. They have anti-aging properties that help in reducing wrinkles, fine lines, and keratolytic effects to heal the skin faster and better. Extracts from grapeseed, green tea, bilberry milk thistle, and ginkgo biloba have soothing, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. Overall, this anti-aging product helps in restoring the skin to a normal texture and color after a bout of rosacea.
Pros
- Relieves burning sensation
- Moisturizes the skin
- Repairs the skin barrier
- Prevents future flare-ups
- Removes dead skin cells
- Gets absorbed quickly
- Reduces discoloration
- Improves blood circulation
Cons
- May cause breakouts
"The Skinception serum is a blessing for my rosacea-affected skin. It calms redness and soothes itchiness. My skin looks healthy and relaxed after consistent use of this product. I like that it layers well under my other skin care product. It absorbs quickly into my skin and lends it a plump feel."
People living with rosacea may find it difficult to select the best serum for their skin. Although there are many brands that offer the best serums for rosacea, there are a few things that you must look out for when buying serum to protect your skin from further damage. We are providing a brief buying guide for your help.
How To Select The Best Serum for Rosacea-Infected Skin?
- Ingredients
You must choose serums that contain azelaic acid, niacinamide, alpha arbutin, ceramides, aloe, bisabolol, acetyl tetrapeptide-40, cucumber, oat, green tea, and camellia Sinensis leaf extract. These ingredients will help you in soothing the skin as well as relieving and calming rosacea symptoms. You can also go with organic and cold-pressed ingredients. It is advised to choose dermatologist-tested and professional-grade serums that are also formulated with clinically-tested or clinically backed skincare ingredients which show proven efficacy.
- Ingredients To Avoid
With the rosacea skin, you must avoid serums that contain glycolic, lactic, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, alcohol, salt, sugar grains, jojoba beads, fragrances, hydroquinone, sodium lauryl sulfate, witch hazel, menthol, camphor, and urea.
- Skin Type
Even if you are rosacea, your skin type can affect the choice of your ideal serum. If you have oily skin, then go for the serums that have the features of tightening the skin and reducing inflammation. In case of dry skin, you must go with serums that are rich in Vitamin E and fatty acids. For combination skin, you can go for serums that include proper moisture and nourishment features. In the context of persistent redness due to rosacea, tailoring your serum choice to your skin type becomes particularly crucial for effective management.
- Moisturizers
Serums are like a boost for your skin, but they don’t take the place of your moisturizer. Therefore, a serum with clinically-proven or clinically backed skin care active ingredients for soothing redness and irritation that works deeply in the skin’s affected areas might enhance the effects of your usual skincare routine.
- Reviews
Customer reviews, product reviews, reviewer’s experiences, or tester’s experiences, that are available on various websites are the best way to find the best serum for rosacea. Look for products that are specially designed for skin that is redness-prone or sensitive, as these products typically work to soothe and relax the skin while also protecting the skin barrier. The serums must be rich in moisture because rosacea-infected skin needs more and more moisturizers.
These are some of the best serums to control rosacea. Now, let us delve into the factors that can help you manage this condition better.
How To Handle Skin That Is Suffering From Rosacea
As we already know, there is no cure for rosacea. The best course of action is to avoid the triggers and to use products that alleviate its symptoms. These are some things that you can keep in mind:
- Triggers: Different people have different triggers. It is better to observe and record your triggers to avoid flare-ups. Some common environmental triggers of rosacea include hot showers, sunbathing, drinking alcohol, and hypersensitivity to makeup products. Spicy food has also been known to increase rosacea. So, regulate your alcohol and spicy food intake and avoid very hot or very cold showers. This proactive approach can help you manage your rosacea and minimize environmental damage to your skin.
- Irritants: Avoid harmful ingredients in skin care and makeup products such as parabens, alcohol, fragrances, SLS, petroleum, and phthalates.
- SPF: It is imperative to use sun protection with high SPF at all times, especially when you have rosacea. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to cumulative sun damage that can make you more susceptible to a rosacea flare-up. Titanium oxide or zinc oxide are some great ingredients in mineral sunscreens. Also, use umbrellas, hats, scarves, and sunglasses. It is important to note that some sunscreens may leave a noticeable white cast on the skin, which can be a concern for individuals with diverse skin tones.
- Ingredients: Look for products that contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ingredients like aloe, cucumber, oat, green tea, and chamomile. These components not only soothe the skin but also address concerns like bumpy texture and skin sensitivity, providing a holistic approach to managing phymatous rosacea.
- Hydration: Dry skin aggravates a rosacea flare-up, so moisturization is another important factor to control rosacea. Use products with moisturizing agents like hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. Avoid oily or comedogenic products.
- Skin Barrier Repair: Ceramides and niacinamide help in repairing and restoring the skin’s protective barrier. Include vitamins C, A, and E that have anti-aging benefits. They also help in reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation. Using vitamin C-based serums is a must if you have rosacea.
- Skin Care Routine: Follow a proper skin care routine with products formulated for rosacea. Consult a dermatologist if the symptoms persist. Be gentle with your skin as harsh movements (vigorously using makeup wipes or washcloth, tugging or pulling the skin) and products ( physical exfoliants, scrubs, double cleansers, toners, alcohol-based products, and oily products) can rupture the blood vessels. These broken blood vessels and capillaries aggravate redness.
It is very easy to use serums in your skin care routine to treat rosacea and for comforting the skin. Scroll down to learn more.
How to Use Face Serums On Rosacea Skin
Serums are concentrated products that get absorbed quickly and penetrate deep into the skin to work effectively. Most serums have a light oily consistency that does not feel heavy on the skin. Serum needs to be applied after cleansing and moisturizing your face. Wait till the product has gotten completely absorbed. It is important to use a serum on dry skin as wet skin is more permeable, which can sometimes lead to irritation. Take one or two pumps of the product and pat it gently on the skin. Use your serum 2-3 times a week at first and watch how it tolerates it. Let your skin adjust to the product. Consult a doctor if there is any discomfort. Use broad spectrum SPF after the serum to protect your skin.
Infographic: Ingredients In Serums For Rosacea And Important Care Tips
Rosacea-affected skin requires special attention to avoid discomfort, irritability, and inflammation. Even though there is currently no known cure, you can manage the symptoms and avoid flare-ups. Invest in serums that restore damaged skin and lessen inflammation. The infographic below will help you determine which serum is the best for your skin’s requirements. Check it out!
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Rosacea is a common skin condition causing visibility of blood vessels on the skin. Sometimes it causes red pus-filled bumps and facial redness. Such skin needs special care to minimize inflammation and relieve pain and irritation which is why the best serums for rosacea treatment would be of great help. For example, the Dermaced Redness Redux Serum For Rosacea & Skin Redness provides targeted relief for rosacea, the La Roche-Posay Rosaliac AR Intense Visible Redness Reducing Serum reduces visible redness and soothes irritated skin, and the Cos De BAHA Azelaic Acid 10 Serum helps manage persistent redness and skin sensitivity. So, consider investing in serums that repair damaged skin, reduce inflammation, and minimize the severity of rosacea. Consider investing in serums that are free of nasty chemicals. But restrain from buying serums that cause breakouts. Hence, choosing a serum that has undergone careful testing is essential for effectively managing rosacea and promoting healthier skin. For patients with rosacea, this serves as a guide to skincare that also, underscores the importance of addressing the appearance of blood vessels, redness, and other associated symptoms, enhancing the overall quality of skincare routines tailored for rosacea management. However, consider doing a patch test to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Why Trust Stylecraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this post, is a certified skin care coach and loves to try out various skin care products and review them. In this article, she has researched multiple options thoroughly and read many online reviews to pick the best serum for rosacea for her readers. These serums are made with ingredients that have anti-inflammatory properties. They also rejuvenate and repair the skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vitamin C serum if I have rosacea?
Yes, vitamin C works very well in treating rosacea. It soothes the skin with its anti-inflammatory properties.
Does hyaluronic acid hurt rosacea?
No. It is the only kind of acid that can be safely applied to rosacea. It has a soothing and hydrating effect.
Can you use retinol serum if you have rosacea?
Retinol may cause irritation to the rosacea and lead to inflammation and redness. It is best to avoid retinol-based products.
What products worsen rosacea?
Some products that can worsen the situation of rosacea are alcohol, camphor, fragrances, lactic acid, and urea. It is important to be aware of the ingredients used in any product that you apply and ensure that it does not contain any of the above.
Does rosacea worsen with age?
Yes, rosacea may worsen with age. You will need to make an effort to keep it under control managing the symptoms.
Does rosacea go away after 60 years old?
No. Rosacea can occur at any age and seldom goes away on its own. To control the situation, you need to treat the issue and work on it consistently.
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