Anatomy of the skin

Consisting of three distinct layers, the skin is the largest sensory organ of the body.  The outermost layer, the epidermis has a layer of dead cells that we shed every few weeks.  The middle layer, the dermis, is saturated with blood vessels, nerves, sweat glands and collagen, and is responsible for the thickness of the skin.  The dermis plays a considerable role in the cosmetic appearance of the skin as we age.  The subcutaneous layer is known as the fatty layer, as it is composed mostly of just fat.  The skin is a barrier that protects our internal organs from the external, sometimes hostile environment. It is responsible for temperature regulation, vitamin D synthesis, and is constantly sending important messages to our brain.

Red Skin

Red skin can manifest as the clinical condition Rosacea which is an accentuation of blood vessels in the skin. It often shows up between ages 30-60.  Redness is usually more noticeable along the cheeks, nose and chin and can factor into other problems like acne, red bumps, and flushing.  Rosacea is thought to be complicated process; however, most experts agree it has an inflammatory origin, and therefore by decreasing inflammation in our body we are more likely to bring it under control.  Recently, studies have found a link between digestive health, the immune system and inflammation.  Studies have shown that by supporting digestion with probiotics, prebiotics and digestive enzymes, we can in fact improve inflammation.   

Triggers

Rosacea flares can come from a variety of things like stress, foods, sun and alcohol.  Dairy products, spicy food and foods containing higher iron levels have been shown to be triggers.  Balance within multiple body systems is often necessary for the best control of rosacea and redness.  This includes not only the skin, but hormones, gut and nervous systems that all work together and are in no way independent of each other.  

Treatments

Topicals

There are prescription and non-prescription topical products available for the treatment of rosacea.  However, many of these products can cause skin irritation and may increase one's sensitivity when sun exposure occurs.  There is some thought that topical antioxidants like C and E have a role in reducing oxidative stress on the skin if used on a regular basis.

Orals

For more advanced issues, antibiotics may be prescribed, but because antibiotics can interfere with digestive flora, newer recommendations may include starting with high dose probiotics and digestive enzymes to support gastrointestinal flora.  High quality, mercury and toxin free fish oil may also have a role with improving inflammation in the skin.

Advanced Methods

Technology provides us with some medical solutions that are now available for skin repair and rejuvenation.  These include certain types of chemical peels, laser treatments and intense pulsed light (IPL^TM) devices, that offer lasting benefits with minimal or no downtime.  With these tools, we have consistent results in reducing skin inflammation specifically and in turn controlling redness, blood vessels, and the red bumps and acne that often follow suit. Deep light treatments can also stimulate remodeling at the structural layers to enhance surface improvements.  The best part is that with these newer technologies you can get faster results that provide longer lasting improvements. In my practice we counsel patients in using these therapies along with digestive health strategies for the best clinical outcome.