If You Have Rosacea, Doctors Say These Are The Best Products To Use

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If you're one of the 14 million people who suffer from the skin condition rosacea in this country, you know how challenging and disheartening the persistent redness, inflammation, and pus-filled bumps can be. What you may not know is that there are several different types of rosacea, including the erythematotelangiectatic kind, which is characterized by facial redness due to enlarged blood vessels, papulopustular rosacea (often mistaken for acne because of the pus-filled blemishes that are a hallmark of the condition), and phymatous rosacea—it causes skin to thicken and swell, especially around the nose.

What's common about all of these types of rosacea: "This is an inflammatory skin condition and the exact cause isn't fully understood," explains Carmen Castilla, MD, a clinical instructor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York. "It is thought to have a few triggering components, and there is likely a genetic connection as rosacea does tend to run in families."

Doctors can do a lot to treat rosacea in their offices—therapies include light-based treatments like lasers, prescription topical and oral medications, and even neurotoxin injections like Botox—but there's also plenty you can do at home to find relief from the condition. From moisturizers that can help calm skin to green concealers that temporarily mask the appearance of redness, you don't have to suffer needlessly. "The key for rosacea-prone patients is sticking to gentle, fragrance-free products," says Dr. Castilla. "Your rosacea is likely to flare if you try to use a variety of different products and active ingredients. Simple is key- don't try to get fancy."

Wondering where to start when it comes to pinpointing the best over-the-counter products for rosacea? You're in luck: We asked Dr. Castilla and other top dermatologists to share the the ones they recommend to their patients. Their picks run the gamut from super-affordable options from drugstore brands like CeraVe to luxurious options from Alastin and Clinique.

Get ready to have a clearer, smoother, less irritated complexion.

Toleriane Rosaliac AR Visible Redness Reducing Cream

The persistent skin inflammation that is common in complexions affected by rosacea can lead to a compromised skin barrier (that's the outer protective layer of skin), says Dr. Castilla. That's why she recommends this pick from derm-favorite brand La Roche-Posay. First, it contains the brand's soothing thermal spring water, which is rich in a natural antioxidant called selenium, as well as a peptide called Neurosensine that helps to make skin feel more soothed. (It's also free of fragrance and other ingredients known to cause skin reactions.)

Second, the product is formulated with lightweight hydrators like glycerin to help restore the function of the skin barrier and repair any damage. And lastly, the green pigment instantly neutralizes redness so you'll be motivated to continue using the product and see more lasting results.

Rave review: "The lotion is light and doesn’t feel sticky or gross at all. It helps so much with the redness. You may see some light redness bleed through, but for the most part is covers redness very very well."

All Calm Clinical Redness Corrector SPF 50

Let's be clear: Sun damage can compromise skin in a way that makes you more prone to rosacea flares. That's why protecting your skin with sunscreen is essential. So why not use one that also delivers a noticeable reduction in skin redness? This pick, recommended by Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York and clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center, does just that.

It contains all-mineral sunscreen filers (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide here) to shield skin from UV damage, as well as a proprietary blend of ingredients such as niacinamide, bisabolol, and ginger root extract to calm and soothe away redness. Plus, it's slightly greenish undertones provide an instant effect. In fact, in company-funded clinical studies, 100% of users reported a noticeable reduction in facial redness after using the product for twelve weeks.

Rave review: "The first time I bought this product was from a plastic surgeon's office. It seems really thick initially, but when you put it on your face and smooth it in, it's light and has great coverage. It makes your face look smooth and healthy. I get tons of compliments when I use it."

Gentle Facial Cleanser

Remember: Gentle is best when it comes to rosacea—and that especially applies to your cleansing habits. Instead of harsh washes that may only exacerbate the redness, swelling, and irritation you may already be experiencing go with a cleanser formulated especially for those with easily-aggravated skin, like this affordable option from Vanicream.

"This cleanser helps to get rid of makeup, dirt and excess oil but is free of common irritants found in other cleansers such as fragrance, dyes, parabens, formaldehyde and other preservatives, making it a great option for those with sensitive skin," says Dr. Garshick. "It’s gentle enough to be used every day and can remove makeup and excess oil, without drying the skin out."

Rave review: "If you're on the hunt for a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser that caters to scent sensitivity, Vanicream might just be the answer to your prayers. As someone who has struggled with skin sensitivities and the dreaded fragrance-triggered reactions, I can confidently say this product has been a game-changer in my routine."

Camo Color Corrector in Green

You might take one look at a green concealer and think, "What the heck am I supposed to do with that?" But hear us out: Color correcting concealers work based upon the well-established principles of color theory, explains Stacey Tull, MD, a board-certified dermatologist with St. Charles County Dermatologic Surgery in Cottleville, MO. Green, for example, appears on the opposite side of the color wheel from red, allowing it to neutralize redness—in this case, on your skin.

That's why choosing a green-colored concealer can help to mask the redness typically associated with rosacea. Dr. Tull recommends this affordable option, which comes with a precision-tip applicator wand for targeted coverage (a little goes a long way with these products, so start with a small amount and build from there).

Other great features of this concealer are that it's super hydrating (you can thank the hyaluronic acid and rose flower water in there for that), crease-free, and leaves a beautiful satin finish in its wake. Oh, and did we mention the price? It's under five bucks!

Rave review: "It's such a skin-friendly formula and very versatile for all areas of the face. I like to dab dots of it around my face and then blend it in well."

Redness Neutralizer

Dr. Tull calls this pick—from derm-favorite brand SkinCeuticals—a "gentle and effective moisturizer." It's a targeted blend of biomimetic peptides and soothing botanicals to help skin feel calmer and cooler, combat flushing, and leave your complexion looking and feeling smoother.

It's a lightweight formula that's perfect for sensitive and reactive skin that you can use daily for the best results. Simply smooth it on morning and night after cleansing to get the full benefits. You may want to pair it with an antioxidant serum (to further protect from environmental aggressors that can cause redness) and you'll definitely want to slather on sunscreen after.

Rave review: "I love how moisturizing this product is. I've used one full bottle and have seen a huge improvement. Halfway done with my second."

Alto Advanced Defense And Repair Serum

Environmental stressors play a signifiant role in inflammatory skin conditions, including, perhaps, rosacea. The issue: Many products formulated with antioxidants can be harsh on sensitive skin. That's where this product comes in: "This Vitamin C serum contains 17 additional antioxidants in addition to vitamins C and E to help protect against free radical damage and environmental stressors," explains Dr. Garshick. "Additionally, it contains Allyl PQQ, super-potent patented antioxidant technology as well as an antipollution complex that, together, reduces dullness and improves redness and brightens the skin, which makes it a great vitamin C for someone dealing with rosacea.

It has a lightweight texture that makes it ideal for daily usage—simply apply it to clean, dry skin both day and night for the best effects. In one 12-week study, participants enjoyed a significant and measurable difference in brightness and the appearance of redness.

Rave review: "This product has been a complete game-changer for my face. My complexion's texture and pigmentation has dramatically improved and fine lines have softened. This will be a staple in my routine."

Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

Another favorite of Dr. Garshick's is this rich barrier repair cream, which is deeply nourishing, making it perfect for those with the driest skin, especially during wintertime. "This restorative cream can be used to help heal dry skin, while also helping to calm redness and inflammation," she says.

For those who are cautious about slathering on such a thick, occlusive product—don't be with this one, Garshick urges. "It's fragrance-free and won’t leave the skin feeling greasy. It’s also non-comedogenic so it won’t clog the pores. It contains a post biotic restorative ingredient, helping to support the skin barrier and also protect the skin from external irritants."

Rave review: "This drastically improved my perioral dermatitis, which had spread to most of my face. Within a day or two, the stinging and itching was gone—and within two weeks, most of the bumps and my rash have cleared up. It's thick and needs to be rubbed in, but all worth it for clearing up my dermatitis."

Redness Solutions Daily Protectice Base SPF 15

Clinique's Redness Solutions regimen was specifically formulated for those with rosacea, says Dr. Tull, with lactobacillus ferment to soothe inflammed skin. One of the standouts of the three-product collection is this unique makeup primer—it's oil-free (no breakouts here!) and formulated with mineral sunscreen ingredients to protect skin for UV damage.

This one also has a transparent greenish tint to immediately counteract redness in the skin. Apply it after moisturizing and before you put on your makeup to help irritation-complexions heal.

Rave review: "This green cream tones down the redness on my face due to rosacea, making it so the red doesn't show through my makeup. I've been using it for years."

10% Azelaic Acid Booster

When you've got a complexion that's easily aggravated and prone to irritation, using certain active ingredients can only exacerbate the sensitivity. That's why it's key to look for ingredients that can get the job done with a softer touch. Enter azelaic acid. This naturally occurring acid found in grains such as wheat, barley, and rye, has anti-inflammatory properties to calm redness as well as the ability to increase cell turnover and inhibit melanin production to smooth and even skin's tone. And it does all of this without the potential irritation of ingredients like retinol and vitamin C.

That's why this azaleic acid booster is one of Dr. Castilla's favorites. "It's not as strong as the prescription version but still very effective and easy to incorporate into an over-the-counter rosacea skin care routine," she says. "It can help improve the texture of your skin." In addition to the main ingredient, this formula is infused with salicylic acid to help keep those pus-filled bumps at bay as well as licorice root to quell redness and sensitivity. Use it twice daily on its own or by adding it to you moisturizer of choice.

Rave review: "This one is the best, period. I've tried all the others and this one wins—it has a creamy, elegant feel that soaks in and layers well with no pilling."

Phyto Corrective Gel

Hydrated skin is healthy skin—and this elegant serum delivers just that, with hyaluronic acid, as well as a blend of soothing botanicals (cucumber, thyme, olive extract) to make irritation a thing of your past. It's on Dr. Garshick's hit list—and it should be on yours if you're dealing with troubling redness and sensitivity.

And let's talk about the texture: It's a cooling gel-serum that feels like a refreshing splash of water on your face. Smooth a few drops over your face and neck twice daily.

Rave review: "I love this product and have been using it for years. I use it every morning, and it's very calming, especially if I've used my retinol the night before. It delivers an instant boost of hydration and calms redness."

Sensibio H2O Micellar Water

Removing makeup can be a delicate dance when you have skin that's prone to irritation and redness. You need a product that whisks away color without too much rubbing and scrubbing. For that, this micellar water—from the brand that pioneered micellar cleansing technology—can't be beat, says Dr. Garshick. It's formulated at skin's pH so as not to create an imbalance that can lead to sensitivity and won't strip away skin's protective barrier.

But don't just take our word for it. Dr. Garshick is all-too-ready to sing its praises: "This product works to eliminate makeup and buildup and won’t leave skin feeling dry or irritated," she says. "It doesn't need to be rinsed and is very gentle and soothing on the skin."

Rave review: "This removes eye makeup as well as sunscreen, dirt, and oil without irritation, stripping, or any additional oily feeling. It just leaves behind clean, normal feeling skin. Sometimes I still use a cleansing oil or gentle bar cleanser, but I've been using this alone 75% of the time and my skin looks and feels great."

Ultra Calm Cleansing Cream

Most dermatologists will recommend using a non-foaming cleansing cream if you're dealing with any type of inflammation—a hallmark of rosacea. That's why Dr. Castillo is a big fan of this one by Alastin: Yes, this cleanser is a bit pricey, but it's highly effective at removing dirt and oil without stripping away natural oils," she says. "It will not compromise the skin barrier."

But not only will this one not aggravate skin (a solid starting point), it also contains ingredients that can actually help to calm irritation and hydrate skin after you rinse it away. Silver mushroom hydrates, linoleic acid helps to support the skin barrier, and oat protein extract calms and soothes.

Rave review: "I'm so thrilled I finally found a cleansing cream that doesn’t dry me out. This feels rich and gentle at the same time, and I can use it with my skin treatments and not worry it being too harsh. I am extremely pleased."

CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50

A favorite of both Dr. Tull and Dr. Garshick, this all-mineral drugstore sunscreen is basically designed for those with sensitive skin. It contains 100% mineral filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide here) and is formulated without common skin irritants such as fragrance and parabens. Bottom line: This one should be gentle as a feather on your complexion. "I also love that it contains hyaluronic acid to help provide moisture, ceramides support skin’s natural barrier, and niacinamide to soothe skin, making it easy to apply," says Dr. Garshick.

One thing to note: Because it contains 7% zinc oxide, the formula may require extra blending for those with darker skin (and may be too whitish altogether for some). Your best bet is to smooth on a little at a time and blend, blend, blend.

Rave review: "Once I I figured out that I need to use a little less than other sunscreens, I was totally happy with this. The stuff is like a miracle. Also, the moisturizer is high quality and did not clog my pores, but left my skin feeling amazing."

Azelaic Topical Acid 10%

Some skincare products, especially treatment products, can be pretty pricey. But you'll get a big bang for your buck with this azelaic acid serum, which is priced much lower than some of its competitors. In the bottle, you'll find a high concentration of the active ingredient (which, as a reminder, helps to control oil production and gently exfoliate), alongside niacinamide, vitamin C, and coffee seed extract to improve overall skin tone. What's more, this one's been developed to be kind to sensitive skin, so even the crankiest complexions can use this one.

Azelaic acid is often prescribed by dermatologists to treat rosacea, but Dr. Garshick thinks this is a solid over-the-counter option. "Using the same ingredient found in a commonly used prescription for rosacea, this azelaic acid serum works to reduce bumps associated with rosacea as well as redness and inflammation," she says. "The creamy and lightweight emulsion absorbs easily and it's soothing and won’t leave the skin feeling irritated."

Rave review: "I've tried several other azaleic acid serums for my rosacea, and I finally tried this one and and love it. It's thin like a serum, but completely non-greasy, soaks into skin, and doesn't sit on top of it. This serum combines several good ingredients for my rosacea together in an easy and convenient way."

Rosacea Gel

"Sulfur is an often overlooked but powerful over-the-counter treatment for rosacea," insists Dr. Castillo. That's why she says this no-frills drugstore treatment is one of the best things you can buy if you're living with the condition. The anti-inflammatory sulfur (formulated here at a percentage that is near odorless; otherwise, it can have an unpleasant smell) is paired with soothing aloe to calm, reducing redness and sensitivity and clearing up the acne-like bumps that are sometimes a hallmark of rosacea.

The key to getting all of the benefits without any of the drawbacks is to start slowly. Thoroughly wash your face and pat dry. Then, apply a small amount of the Prosacea gel to affected areas only once a day. If no dryness or sensitivity occurs, gradually up the dosage to twice daily and apply a thin layer to the entire face.

Rave review: "I started using this two weeks ago and within a couple of days, my skin was several shades less red. I still have some redness, but it's not nearly as bad as it was. This product does dry out my skin."

Total Protection Face Shield SPF 50

If you're active outdoors, you know that you need protection that will last. This mineral-based sunscreen really delivers, shielding skin from UV and blue light damage as well as pollution and infrared radiation. Plus, it lasts up to 40 minutes in the water or when you're breaking a sweat (because we all should be prioritizing sun protection during activity). "Chemical UV filters can exacerbate rosacea in some people, so try to stick to physical UV blockers," says Dr. Castillo, who recommends this product. "This one is also great because it's fragrance-free."

Rave review: "This is a very good product. I use it on my face after I moisturize, andI love how it goes on my skin without leaving a white cast like most sunscreens do. It's a little pricey but I use it everyday since I live in a desert and the sun rays are strong."

Bye Bye Redness Serum

This is a new and promising addition to the skincare scene, from a makeup brand that made a name for itself by offering camouflaging products for those with with redness-prone skin. With a milky, fast-absorbing texture and special green pigments that reflect light to instantly neutralize the appearance of flushing, this everyday product is deeply hydrating without being greasy at all.

Company-funded studies determined that the product provides 24-hour hydration and can help to restore the skin's moisture barrier in just one hour. And a quick look at the ingredients is all it will take to convince you of how it accomplishes those benefits. Heavy hitter ingredients like peptides, niacinamide, glycerin, centella, and collodial oatmeal are surefire soothers that should be part of any rosacea routine.

Rave review: "What caught my attention initially was the cream's smooth texture. It effortlessly glides onto the skin, leaving a non-greasy, comfortable feel. But after incorporating the serum into my daily regimen, I noticed a subtle improvement in my skin's hydration and a positive difference in my skin's overall appearance."

Smooth Liquid Foundation with SPF 25

Finding a foundation when you're dealing with moderate to severe facial redness is challenging—you need something that effectively camouflages the condition without feeling mask-like on skin. It's a tricky balance, but Dermablend's classic liquid product achieves just that. High-performance pigments can be built up to achieve anywhere from a medium to a full coverage finish and then wear without smudging or feeling cakey for up to 16 hours. A rare feat, indeed.

It also contains a significant dose of humectant glycerin to keep skin hydrated and titanium dioxide to protect skin from the sun (still wear sunscreen, though). Because of its unique properties, it's best to apply this foundation with your fingertips or a beauty sponge, working your way from the middle of the face outward.

Rave review: "This stayed for over 12 hours, and the heat and sweating and didn’t settle into my fine lines and pores.. I was amazed when I took off my makeup that night. The cotton round looked like I had just put on a full face of makeup and immediately took it off.

Baked Balance-n-Brighten Color Correcting Powder Foundation - Fair - Buildable Light to Medium Coverage - Demi-Matte Natural Finish

Finding a foundation when you're dealing with moderate to severe facial redness is challenging—you need something that effectively camouflages the condition without feeling mask-like on skin. It's a tricky balance, but Laura Geller's classic powder—celebrating its 20th anniversary this year—achieves just that. High-performance pigments self-adjust to your perfect shade match and leave skin with a flattering demi-matte finish without smudging or feeling cakey. A rare feat, indeed.

It's also infused with the antioxidants centella asiatica and white tea extract to shield skin from environmental aggressors and help to keep reactions at bay. Plus, the forgiving texture won't settle into fine lines, making it an ideal choice for mature skin. Is it any wonder that this foundation holds the National Rosacea Society seal—a first for a makeup product?

Rave review: "I'm 66 and have always used liquid foundation. I took a chance on this powder foundation, and I'm shocked by the results. This product covers just as well as my liquid foundation, without enhancing my wrinkles. I have dry skin, so I never considered a powder foundation. I only wish I'd tried it sooner."

How we chose the best skincare products for rosacea

Women's Health beauty director Brian Underwood polled three top dermatologists to secure their recommendations for the best skincare products to use if you have rosacea. Using their guidance as a baseline, we swiped many of the products, checked user reviews, and cross-referenced ingredients to find the best of the best across a number of categories.

Meet our experts

Carmen Castilla, MD, is a clinical instructor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, Marisa Garshick, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in New York and a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical Center, Stacey Tull, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with St. Charles County Dermatologic Surgery in Cottleville, MO

What is rosacea?

While the exact causes still remain a mystery, rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition marked by redness, flushing, and red papules and pustules, says Dr. Garshick. It has a strong genetic component and "most commonly occurs in individuals between 30-50 years old, and although it may be more likely to develop in those with fair skin, it can also occur in those with darker skin types," she adds.

"There is also emerging evidence for the potential connection between the gut microbiome and rosacea," says Dr. Castillo. "The skin-gut axis is the idea that the health of the gut microbiome can affect skin health. Imbalances in the gut microbiome are thought to impact the immune system potentially contributing to inflammatory skin conditions."

Its severity is very case dependent, say our experts. "It can be as mild as just having rosy cheeks, to being a form of adult acne, to having lumpy, excess skin on the nose," Dr. Tull explains.

What triggers a rosacea flare?

This can vary widely, so it's important to keep track of what causes a flare in your skin so you can avoid what sets your complexion into a tizzy. Common triggers include UV exposure, alcohol consumption, spicy food and hot beverages, and topical products (which is why you should be very selective in what you put on your face if you have the condition).

There are also certain contributing factors that are out of your control and are best addressed with the help of a board-certified dermatologist. One in particular: "Demodex mites, which are naturally present on everyone's skin, are thought to be an overabundance in rosacea patients, leading to an inflammatory cascade," says Dr. Castillo.

How do doctors treat rosacea in office?

There are several things that dermatologists have in their toolkits to treat rosacea. Here are a few:

• Oral medications. Antibiotics like doxycycline are sometimes used to target both the inflammation associated with rosacea and kill an overabundance of demodex mites. Isotretinoin—used more commonly to treat acne—can also be used here.

• Prescription topical medications. Many of the same ingredients found in lower concentrations in over-the-counter products can also be prescribed by your dermatologist to treat rosacea. These include sulfur, azelaic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, another common acne treatment. "Prescription creams like Rhofade help to constrict blood vessels and reduce redness," says Dr. Castillo. "But it provides only temporary relief and can trigger rebound redness in some, so I typically only recommend those for events, not everyday use."

• Certain lasers. "Once redness and visible blood vessels are present, the best way to reverse them is to treat with a blood vessel targeting laser," says Dr. Tull. PDL is one vascular laser that dermatologists like. IPL, which stands for intense pulsed light, is another option, says Dr. Castillo.

• Neurotoxins like Botox. For rosacea that has not responded to any of the above treatment, studies suggest that neurotoxins can help relieve redness and flushing.

What should you look for in skincare products to battle rosacea?

Simplicity is key here. Since overuse of topical products can trigger a flare, you'll want to proceed with caution when starting a new regimen or introducing new products into your routine. In general, less is often more for patients with rosacea, especially if during a flare, as just exposing the skin to too many different products may cause things to get worse," says Dr. Garshick.

In some cases, avoid flares is more about what you don't use than what you do. Garshick recommends steering clear of high concentrations of exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids, as well as harsh soaps, abrasive scrubs, heavy fragrance, and drying alcohols. "Additionally, those with rosacea may prefer to avoid chemical filter sunscreens as they may be more likely to cause burning and tingling as compared to mineral filters," she adds.

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