Rosacea

Why it works: Anti-inflammatory + anti-angiogenic actions. EGCG down-regulates inflammatory signaling (e.g., NF-κB, COX-2, iNOS) and can curb pro-angiogenic mediators (VEGF, IL-8) released by ke...

Instructions: Topical 2% EGCG cream (polyphenon/polyphenone E):. • In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study of papulopustular rosacea, participants applied 2% green tea extract cream twice da...

Warnings: Oral green tea extracts can injure the liver (rare but real).. LiverTox (NIH) documents >100 cases o...

Studies: Direct rosacea studies (topical):2% EGCG cream (polyphenone...

Why it works: Anti-inflammatory + anti-redness effects. Aloe gel contains polysaccharides (notably acemannan) and phenolics (e.g., aloesin, aloe-emodin) that dampen inflammatory pathways (includ...

Instructions: Patch test first (crucial for rosacea’s reactive skin). Apply to a small inner-arm area daily for 7–10 days; if no reaction, proceed to face. AAD. Choose the right type: a fragranc...

Warnings: Allergic/contact dermatitis can occur (even to “natural” products). Cases of allergic contact dermat...

Studies: Direct rosacea trials are limited. High-quality randomized t...

Why it works: Anti-inflammatory constituents. Chamomile contains flavonoids (e.g., apigenin, quercetin) and terpenoids (notably α-bisabolol and chamazulene). These can modulate inflammatory path...

Instructions: Patch test first (essential for rosacea & allergy-prone skin). Apply a small amount of the product to the jawline/neck once daily for 3 days. Stop if you notice stinging, burning,...

Warnings: Allergy/cross-reactivity (important). Chamomile is in the Asteraceae/Compositae family (ragweed, chr...

Studies: Rosacea-specific trials: I could not find high-quality rando...

Why it works: Anti-inflammatory + barrier-calming effects (esp. licochalcone A). In keratinocyte models and small clinical programs, licochalcone A down-regulates pro-inflammatory signaling (e.g...

Instructions: These steps mirror what was done in studies and what derm groups advise for rosacea-safe routines:. • Choose a gentle, fragrance-free base. Cleanser + moisturizer formulated for se...

Warnings: Oral licorice (glycyrrhizin) can be dangerous. It may cause hypertension, hypokalemia, arrhythmias,...

Studies: Cosmetic/adjunct skincare trials (licochalcone-based):JEADV...

Why it works: Strengthens a compromised skin barrier. Niacinamide up-regulates epidermal proteins and stimulates ceramide synthesis, which improves barrier function and reduces transepidermal wa...

Instructions: Choose a low-to-moderate strength. Start at 2–5% niacinamide in a bland, fragrance-free serum or moisturizer. This range is effective yet gentle for sensitive/rosacea-prone skin. S...

Warnings: Differentiate niacin (nicotinic acid) vs niacinamide (nicotinamide). Niacin (the flushing form of B3...

Studies: Direct rosacea studies (topical):Niacinamide-containing mois...

Why it works: Anti-inflammatory & “heat/irritation” targeting (TCM rationale + lab pharmacology). HLJDT is a four-herb formula—Coptis (Huang Lian), Scutellaria (Huang Qin), Phellodendron (Huang...

Instructions: Classical decoction (boiled tea):. • Composition & amounts (typical): Huang Lian 9 g, Huang Qin 6 g, Huang Bai 6 g, Zhi Zi 9 g. Decoction method: simmer the four herbs in water (tr...

Warnings: Use only under qualified supervision—especially if you’re pregnant, on other meds, or have chronic i...

Studies: Direct, high-quality trials: None found in peer-reviewed Eng...

Why it works: Pattern fit in TCM: Many rosacea presentations (persistent centro-facial redness, papules/pustules, burning/hot sensations, flares with alcohol/spicy food) map to Liver/Gallbladder...

Instructions: Typical composition & amounts (decoction):. Long Dan Cao 6 g; Huang Qin 6–9 g; Zhi Zi 9 g; Ze Xie 12 g; (Chuan) Mu Tong or Tong Cao ~6 g; Che Qian Zi 9 g; Chai Hu 6 g; Sheng Di Hua...

Warnings: Absolutely avoid Aristolochia contamination (critical):. • Older or non-compliant “Long Dan Xie Gan...

Studies: Direct, high-quality RCTs of LDXGT specifically for rosacea...

Why it works: TCM rationale. In TCM, rosacea is commonly attributed to “Heat” and “Blood stasis” in the facial network vessels. Qing Re Tiao Xue is a classic formula built exactly for those patt...

Instructions: Important: In TCM, formulas are customized after pattern differentiation (e.g., lung/stomach Heat, Blood-Heat with stasis, Damp-Heat). Do not self-prescribe; work with a licensed p...

Warnings: Because Qing Re Tiao Xue includes blood-invigorating and berberine-containing herbs, safety and inte...

Studies: For this specific formula (Qing Re Tiao Xue): I couldn’t fin...