Cetaphil has launched 2 new products that are targeted at oily or acne-prone skin. The products are called, take a breath; Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control Moisturiser SPF 30 and Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control Foam Wash.

The Oil Control Moisturizer is promoted as a lightweight 3-in-1 moisturizer for acne-prone skin. It is said to provide broad spectrum sun protection, control shine without over-drying. The SPF 30 protection is provided via the combination of 3 chemical sunscreens – avobenzone, octisalate and octocyrlene.

The Oil Control Foam Wash is promoted as being able to remove excess oil and impurities and contribute to soothing acne treatment effects like dryness and irritation.

Suitable for Rosacea?

It will be interesting to see how rosacea sufferers compare the Oil Control Foam to the popular Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.

I really like the combination of the Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser and Skin Moisturizing Lotion. Being a typical male I barely used any skincare products years ago. Now I have a simple but I think quite effective regime based on Cetaphil and Tinted ZincO.

If you have very oily skin then it might be worth trying these 2 new products and see if they might fit into your regime.

Do be aware though, that the moisturizer uses chemical sunscreens to give you SPF30. This might be an issue for extra sensitive skin.

The Ever Expanding Cetaphil Range

Cetaphil is now also making 2 products that are targeted at extra dry skin and may be suitable for rosacea sufferers who struggle with very dry sky skin – see Cetaphil RestoraDERM for comments.

You can see Galderma is trying to build on the success of the Cetaphil brand for problem skin. So far I think they are doing pretty well. offering a few choices for rosacea sufferers.

Cetaphil DERMACONTROL Oil Control Moisturizer SPF 30 Ingredients

Active ingredients: avobenzone 3%, octisalate 5%, octocrylene 7%

Inactive ingredients: water, isopropyl lauroyl sarcosinate, glycerin, dimethicone, diisopropyl sebacate, silica, polymethyl methacrylate, aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, sucrose tristearate, dimethiconol, pentylene glycol, polysorbate 61, sodium stearoyl glutamate, phenoxyethanol, caprylyl glycol, tocopheryl acetate, glycyrrhetinic acid, panthenol, triethanolamine, allantoin, carbomer, potassium sorabte, zine gluconate, xanthan gum, disodium EDTA, hydroxypalmitoyl sphinganine

Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Control Foam Wash Ingredients

water, zinc coceth sulfate, glycerin, PEG-75, dipotassium glycyrrhizate, zinc gluconate, PEG-200 hydrogenated glyceryl palmate, PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil, PEG-7 glyceryl cocoate, sodium benzoate, masking fragrance, disodium EDTA

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The Cetaphil DermaControl range is available online from Walgreens, drugstore.com and CVS.

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acne.org is a large online community of acne suffers that includes a small area for rosacea sufferers. The site is run mostly by volunteers and doesn’t accept any advertising. This in itself is something uncommon, a large internet site that isn’t owned by a commercial interest that doesn’t accept advertising. The site tells us that it uses the sales of their custom products to help pay for the running of the site.

The acne.org Regime

The regime has been developed by Mr. Kern as he was unhappy with the formulation, availability and cost of commercially available regimes for acne. Certainly the products that have been developed are generously sized and very cheap.

I applaud Mr. Kern and acne.org for developing their own treatment regime. Well done!

The acne.org regime consists of a Cleanser, a 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide based Treatment Gel, Moisturizer with Licochalcone, Jojoba Oil and also a 10% Glycolic Acid based AHA+ product.

Even though the regime includes a benzoyl peroxide gel and a Glycolic Acid product, I thought that 3 other components; the cleanser, moisturizer and jojoba oil were worth highlighting.

If you are looking for a  cheap and simple cleansing and moisturizing regime, with a very short list of ingredients, then read on.

Acne.org Cleanser

Here is their description of the cleanser: “Liquid cleansers are less drying and can more easily achieve pH balance. However, liquid cleansers never lathered enough for me. I like a nice lather with my cleanser. So I asked several manufacturers for the impossible–a pH neutral liquid cleanser that lathers well. After trying 11 or 12 samples, the winning manufacturer came through with a carefully combined ingredient list which achieved an exact pH of 5.5. Since the pH of human skin is about 5.5, the result is a cleanser that leaves the skin in an even harmony without over drying or stripping the skin. And it lathers well! I was thrilled. I also made sure there were no perfumes or dyes. If you’re looking for a colored or scented cleanser, this is not the one for you. Instead, it is as simple as possible–a neutral pH, a nice substantial feeling in the palm, a gratifying lather, and a clean rinse.”

Cleanser Ingredients

Water, PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Trideceth Sulfate, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, PEG-150 Distearate, Sodium Laureth 13 Carboxylate, Disodium Cocamphodiacetate, Butylene Glycol, Sage Extract, Cucumber Extract, White Oak Bark Extract, Panthenol, Allantoin, Acrylates Copolymer, Methylgluceth-20, Polysorbate-20, Quaternium-15, DMDM Hydantoin, Disodium EDTA.

Read some honest reviews in the review area: Acne.org Cleanser

Purchase Cleanser at danielkern.com: $7 for 8 oz (235ml) or $9.50 for 16 oz (475ml).

Acne.org Moisturizer

The acne.org moisturizer contains Licochalcone, the same active ingredient promoted by the Eucerin Redness Relief range who claim that their products are proven to provide redness relief.

“Generously sized moisturizer with licochalcone. Also contains jojoba oil. Intensely hydrating, non-comedogenic lotion designed to eliminate dry, flaky skin. Goes on clear and absorbs quickly, leaving no residue. Super light feel, fragrance free and dye free.”

Moisturizer Ingredients

Water, Simmondsia chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Methyl Gluceth-20, Squalane, Saccharide Isomerate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Olivate, PEG-12 Glyceryl Distearate, PEG-23 Glyceryl Distearate, Carbomer, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

Great to see Jojoba Oil being used here and the use of Licochalcone is also interesting.

Read some honest reviews in the review area: Acne.org Moisturizer, Dan’s New Formula

Purchase the Moisturizer at danielkern.com: $14.92 for 8 oz (235ml) or $24.19 for 16oz (475ml).

Acne.org Jojoba Oil

Great to see that our fellow skin sufferees (is that a word?) also love jojoba oil. For very dry skin this is great. Apply a few drops to your palms and gently rub into very wet skin. The oil absorbs really easily allowing you to further apply a moisturizer if required. I used to use vita oil when my skin was really dry and would recommend it to kick start your regime.

“Generously sized 8 oz. certified organic jojoba oil. I recommend people try a few drops of jojoba oil in whichever moisturizer they are currently using. It will not clog pores at all. Quite the contrary, it makes my skin look great and keeps my skin’s oil balanced. “

Jojoba Oil Ingredients

Jojoba Oil (100% Organic)

Read some honest reviews in the review area: Acne.org Jojoba Oil

Purchase Jojoba Oil at danielkern.com: $14.75 for 8oz (235ml).

Love To Hear From You!

I was excited to find that such a simple, elegant and inexpensive cleanser and moisturizer was easily available.

I’m quietly hopeful that these products might also become popular with rosacea sufferers. It would be a great result if rosacea sufferers were able to find here a gentler, simpler and cheaper regime that they thought possible.

Please let us know if you decide to give them a try.

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The idea of using an American Academy of Dermatology Poster session paper to introduce research around a new product is nothing new. Getting a poster session approved is easier than a full journal paper, so this path is certainly an attractive way to publicize your research.The AAD Poster Sessions are therefore one way in which rosacea sufferers get a glimpse into the leading (or indeed bleeding) edge of rosacea research.

From the description of the Rosacea Treatment System contained in this abstract, it seems clear that this regime is the Obagi Rosaclear System.

Obagi is a registered trademark of OMP, Inc. OMP stands for Obagi Medical Products. OMP are listed as commercially supporting this trial.

Obagi promote the Rosaclear System as a containing ;

• a “gentle cleanser that soothes your skin while helping to remove bacteria and other irritating residues”. It contains Aloe.
• a Hydrating Complexion Corrector that “protects and moisturises your skin while helping to reduce the appearance of redness by utilizing multiple calming agents and light-reflecting minerals”
• a Skin Balancing Sun Moisturizer SPF15 – a chemical free tinted UVA/UVB moisturizer which easily blends with your skin to help reduce the appearance of redness and blotchiness”. The ingredients list Zinc Oxide 15.5% and Titanium Dioxide 2.0%.

The 4th part of  the regime is a generic version of 0.75% Metronidazole Topical Gel available via prescription only.

We are told that the calming agents are licorice, aloe, lavender, sea whip and Mica.

P301 Evaluating a rosacea treatment system containing a cleanser, metronidazole, hydrating complexion corrector, and sunscreen

AAD Summer Academy Meeting 2010, August 4-8, 2010, Chicago Ill.

http://www.aad.org/posters/presentations/_doc/SM2010/Abstracts.pdf

James Leyden, MD, KGL, Inc., Broomall, Pennsylvania, United States

Introduction: A rosacea treatment system (consisting of four components—cleanser, metronidazole 0.75% gel, hydrating complexion corrector, and sunscreen SPF30) has been developed to treat rosacea pharmacologically and non-pharmacologically. The system aims to reduce the appearance of redness as rapidly as possible while also providing other clinical benefits in the longer term.

Methods: Adult women with mild or moderate rosacea, and mild or moderate erythema on the malar area of the face, were eligible to enrol in this investigator-blind, parallel-group study. Participants were randomly assigned to receive one of the following three treatments for 28 days: the rosacea treatment system; the rosacea treatment system minus metronidazole; or metronidazole 0.75% gel plus standard skin care (standard cleanser and moisturizer/sunscreen). Each product was applied twice daily except the sunscreen in the rosacea treatment system was applied each morning and as needed.

Results: Overall, 30 patients enrolled and 29 (97%) completed. The proportion of patients who, at day 28, had at least slight global improvement (≤ 24% improvement) was 90% with the rosacea treatment system, 60% with the rosacea treatment system minus metronidazole, and 67% with metronidazole plus standard skin care. The proportion with at least moderate global improvement (25-49%) was 40% with the rosacea treatment system, 10% with the rosacea treatment system minus metronidazole, and 11% with metronidazole plus standard skin care.

At day 14, the mean erythema score had declined in the rosacea treatment system group and remained unchanged with metronidazole plus standard skin care.

At day 28, the proportion of patients considering their study regimen to be very effective, effective, or somewhat effective in reducing dryness was 90% with the rosacea treatment system, 90% with the rosacea treatment system minus metronidazole, and 78% with metronidazole plus standard skin care.

Also at day 28, the proportion of patients who reported their skin was easily irritated at least sometimes was 40% with the rosacea treatment system, 70% with the rosacea treatment system minus metronidazole, and 89% with metronidazole plus standard skin care. Two adverse events were reported (both in the metronidazole plus standard skin care group)—dry chin and burning sensation.

Conclusion: The rosacea treatment system may offer superior efficacy and tolerability to metronidazole plus the standard skin care used in this study.

Commercial Support: Supported by OMP, Inc.

My Thoughts

It is encouraging to see a company that is promoting the use of a complete, gentle skincare regime. For many rosacea sufferers, being able to find the best combination of a moisturizer, sunscreen and cleanser is a good step toward finding relief.

The Rosaclear web page has a nice morphing Before & After gallery tab for 2 patients who have used the regime for 1 or 4 weeks. You would have to say that the improvement shown in these photographs, though, is on the mild side.

Time will tell whether the combination suggested by Obagi is going to be find success as a complete rosacea skincare regime.

User Reviews

moree65 says “I’ve had a great experience so far with these products. The face wash seems to calm burning and the moisturizer works for dry flaky skin, and also goes on white so it hides flushing when I do have an episode. Seems to make a big difference so I will continue using”

and also

“I actually got the Rosaclear samples from a spa that has a doctor on staff. I would not agree to purchase until they gave me samples because I’ve spent too much money on products that don’t work. I did purchase the kit after using the samples for 10 days. The kit includes a face wash, skin corrective moisturizer, and metro gel that is the same strength as the prescription one. You only use just a small amount so it should last quite awhile. Look online and see if there is a spa close to where you live that carries the line. Good luck and I hope it works for you too.”

Liz says: Working well so far. Was put on the Rosaclear system about four weeks ago – I really like the cleanser a lot because it cleans extremely well and leaves my skin feeling soft and not tight at all. Smells fresh and takes very little to get the job done.

Donna says: “Just thought I’d share…I recently started using the SPF 30 in the Obagi rosacea line of products and I’m really happy with it. It has a bit of tint which helps hide the redness, and it soaks in without feeling greasy. I apply a dime size amount to my face and wait about 10 minutes before applying my mineral foundation (Alima). I find I don’t need much foundation to cover the redness. It’s a bit pricey, but I bought mine on eBay for about US$22. This is my new
favorite.”

How To Buy

Obagi are favouring selling their products through professional offices or official country distributors.

Alternatively, it appears that you can purchase rosaclear from Amazon and also Dermstore.

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Already available in Canada, Cetaphil will introduce a new line of products for dry sensitive skin in August in the US. The line is called RestoraDERM and is targeted at Eczema sufferers who struggle to maintain the natural moisture balance of their skin. For

For those rosacea sufferers who also have eczema or also struggle with moisturizing extra dry or itchy skin, this range may be worth a try.

I suspect that the moisturizer may initial seem thick compared to other moisturizers familiar to rosacea sufferers. Please leave a comment below if you do try them. What are they like ? Do they help you battle with any of you rosacea symptoms ?

The Canadian web site for RestoraDERM tells us that the soap-free liquid cleanser is said to encapsulate high levels of moisturizing oils to cleanse and hydrate dry skin, whilst the lotion is said to contain patented ceramide technology to replenish the skin’s natural oils to help the skin to retain its natural moisture.

We are also told that both products are `clinically proven to be suitable for total-body use—including the face’ and are `ideal for the entire family’ and that the products have been demonstrated to relieve dryness and itching.

When Galderma acquired Collagenex in 2008, Collagenex listed a technology known as Restoraderm (along with Oracea and Sansrosa) as one of the assets acquired. Restoraderm at that time was described as a “proprietary, foam-based, topical drug delivery technology”. It isn’t clear to me whether this product is related to this technology or is something else entirely.

Cetaphil RESTORADERM Skin Restoring Body Wash Ingredients

Water, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sodium Trideceth Sulfate, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Lauroamphoacetate, Cocamide MEA, Niacinamide, Tocopheryl Acetate, Allantoin, Arginine, Citric Acid, Methylisothiazolinone, Sodium PCA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Guar Hydroxypropyltrimonium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate, Disodium EDTA.

Cetaphil RESTORADERM Skin Restoring Moisturizer Ingredients

Water, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Sorbitol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine, Niacinamide, Allantoin, Panthenol, Arginine, Disodium Ethylene Dicocamide PEG-15 Disulfate, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Sodium PCA, Ceteareth-20

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The `oversized electric toothbrush’ is promoted as the path to expertly cleansed skin; not via wipes, creams and scrubs it seems.

Interestingly the Clarisonic has for a long time been promoted as a part of a cleansing regime for rosacea sufferers. Knowing just how sensitive the skin of rosacea sufferers can be, it was a brave marketing move for Clarisonic. So far it seems to have paid off, rosacea sufferers are mostly positive in their reviews. Even the price tag doesn’t seem to dull rosacea sufferers enthusiasm for this ultimate cleansing gadget.

From the Daily Mail article:

Get supersonic skin: From the makers of the most popular toothbrush, a face cleaner they claim is just as good

It is claimed that the Clarisonic Skin Care System can remove make-up six times more effectively than a manual cleanser, and is twice as effective when it comes to getting rid of grease, dirt and other assorted gunk that collects in our pores and on our skin. 

The toothbrush analogy is no coincidence. The product was developed by the team behind the Sonicare electric toothbrush, which as well as brushing teeth claims to be able to remove more plaque because of its ‘patented sonic technology’.

The article addresses my first question when I heard about the Clarisonic – exactly what is sonic about this product – does it use sound waves to cleanse the skin ?

Usually when scientists use the term sonic, they’re talking about soundwaves or things moving at the speed of sound. Here, according to David Hughes, Clarisonic’s director of international operations, it refers to the very fast oscillating movement of the bristles.

So there we have it, as suspected, the `sonic’ in Clarisonic, is mostly marketing speak.

The Clarisonic is being promoted as a way to make existing skincare regimes more effective. The idea being that properly cleaned skin is more receptive to moisturizers and indeed all skincare products. Whether you will get value from investing £150 in this product, only time can tell.

Overall, rosacea sufferers are impressed with the Clarisonic Skin Care System. You can see user reviews from fellow rosacea sufferers here: Clarisonic User Reviews

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Distressed with the expense of exotic rosacea treatments ? The stress of rosacea is enough without also having to worry about how to afford treatments. Finding affordable rosacea treatments is a real challenge.

So here we go; my top 5 suggestions to help you find cheap rosacea treatments.

1. Make your own cleanser

Colloidal Oatmeal has promise as natural product because of it’s cleansing, moisturizing, buffering, soothing, protecting and anti-inflammatory properties.

While products like Linda Sy’s Mild Oatmeal Facial Cleanser and Aveeno Oatmeal Anti-Itch are not cheap recommendations, you should be able to source colloidal oatmeal easily from a health food store. Colloidal Oatmeal is defined as a product made from grinding and processing whole oat grain with strict requirements on the particle size and fat content. The small particle size and the way that it disperses in water means that when it deposits on the skin it forms an occlusive barrier.

Try mixing a small amount of Colloidal Oatmeal with warm water and lathering it on your face. Gently remove it with cool water.

See also the Homemade Mixes Forum and the Custom Topical Formulations resources page for more suggestions on making your own super cheap topicals.

2. Use generic prescriptions

Newer releases of antibiotics like Oracea and Solodyn can be extremely expensive, especially without medical insurance. One alternative is to discuss with your doctor the possibility of trying generic doxycycline instead.

Doses of 50mg a day of doxycycline will closely match the amount of active antibiotic in Oracea and Solodyn. Higher doses many also be of benefit until the inflammation of rosacea subsides. Generic doxycycline is far more affordable that these 2 newly released re-packaged antibiotics.

Another possibility is to ask your doctor about generic metronidazole. The patent for metrogel (the 0.75% version specifically) has expired so generic equivalents are now available in several countries around the world. For more information see generic metrogel.

3. Hunt for Bargain Suggestions

Many of the `regular’ treatments for rosacea such as systemic and topical antibiotics are quite expensive. Be on the hunt for things you can try that are more reasonably priced. Here are some suggestions

• Prosacea: this can be sourced over the counter at places like Walgreens and Rite Aid for around $10. It seems to be an ok treatment for rosacea. Prosacea is based on a sulphur preparation.
• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser and Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream or Lotion are two under-rated skincare products. They are cheap, mild and easily available. If you can incorporate these in to your daily skincare regime then you are off to a good start to cheaply caring for your rosacea skin.
• Try to source a cheap zinc oxide based sunscreen. Some countries have cancer foundations that are good at providing affordable, simple sunscreens. You might be fortunate enough to find a low irritant formulation free of chemical sunscreens.

4. Manufacturer Rebates

Drug manufacturers recognise that their products can still be quite expensive by the time they get to the consumer. To try to mitigate this impost, rebates or coupons are sometimes offered.

A quick search revealed the following ; $10 Mail-In Rebate for Metrogel, and Save $10 on Finacea Instantly.

The very expensive Oracea also offers a Savings Card where you could save $25 per prescription for those without prescription insurance and help some insured patients pay no more than $25 per month. The similarly expensive Solodyn is also offering a $35 rebate.

One program that you may not be aware of is offered by Galderma. Galderma will provide Oracea and Metrogel FREE for low income and no insurance sufferers of rosacea.

While these manufacturer rebates come and go, keep an eye out for promotions offered by the manufacturers. Be aware of all the small print also as refunds can take many weeks to arrive, and promotions can be revoked at any time.

5. Ask for Physician Samples

When new drugs are being promoted, the sales team are desperate to find as many outlets as possible. This might mean that your doctor or specialist has drug samples just waiting to be handed out. Check with your local doctor’s surgery, and maybe even ring a few dermatologist to see if they ever get samples from the drug companys’ sales teams.

You might be lucky enough to find a good source for free samples. This is one asset that is worth trying to chase down and link up with.

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Please Help

`Cheap’ and `Rosacea Treatment’ don’t often appear together in the same sentence. Treatments, especially prescription treatments that have been developed and marketed for rosacea sufferers are notoriously expensive – to the point of being unobtainable for many.

Do you have any recommendations for your fellow rosacea sufferers that are on a budget ?

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Colloidal Oatmeal is a versatile and multi-functional compound. This paper details the history and chemistry of colloidal oatmeal and shows how its’ chemical polymorphism leads to many useful clinical properties. Of most interest to rosacea sufferers are the cleansing, moisturizing, buffering, soothing, protecting and anti-inflammatory properties. Colloidal Oatmeal may well be the dream ingredient for rosacea friendly products.

The following table summarizes the paper’s detailing of the components of colloidal oatmeal and the corresponding clinical benefits obtained.

Colloidal Oatmeal is defined as a product made from grinding and processing whole oat grain with strict requirements on the particle size and fat content. The small particle size and the way that it disperses in water means that when it deposits on the skin it forms an occlusive barrier.

The paper lists references to colloidal oatmeal being used as a therapy for swimmer’s itch, chickenpox, poison ivy, oak and sumac, insect bites, winter itch, atopic dermatitis, dry skin, allergic or irritant dermatitis, ichthyosis – as well as prickly heat, hives, sunburn and rashes.

Colloidal oatmeal: history, chemistry and clinical properties, J Drugs Dermatol. 2007 Feb;6(2):167-70, Kurtz ES, Wallo W., Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company, Scientific Affairs Department, Skillman, NJ 08558, USA.

Abstract: Oatmeal has been used for centuries as a soothing agent to relieve itch and irritation associated with various xerotic dermatoses. In 1945, a ready to use colloidal oatmeal, produced by finely grinding the oat and boiling it to extract the colloidal material, became available. Today, colloidal oatmeal is available in various dosage forms from powders for the bath to shampoos, shaving gels, and moisturizing creams. Currently, the use of colloidal oatmeal as a skin protectant is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) according to the Over-The-Counter Final Monograph for Skin Protectant Drug Products issued in June 2003. Its preparation is also standardized by the United States Pharmacopeia.

…

Ellen S. Kurtz PhD and Warren Wallo are employees of Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc, the manufacturer of Aveeno products. The preparation of this manuscript was sponsored in full by Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.

More Background and Links

Dr. Wu’s paper on treating rosacea with herbs had this to say about Oatmeal ;

The US Food and Drug Administration classifies colloidal oatmeal (the powder resulting from the grinding and processing of whole oat grain) as a skin protectant ingredient that “provides temporary skin protection and relieves minor skin irritation and itching due to poison oak, poison ivy, poison sumac, and insect bites.” The properties that make oatmeal useful for these itchy and allergic conditions, however, make it an especially efficacious ingredient for rosacea therapies

First, oatmeal is a potent antipruritic. The moisturizing properties of colloidal oatmeal alleviate itch due to dry skin. These properties, in turn, promote protection of barrier function, which is often impaired in rosacea patients. Oatmeal also works as a skin protectant and enhancer of barrier function as the proteins and polysaccharides bind to skin to provide a protective barrier, while proteins buffer both acids and bases.

Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties. A study by Saeed and associates reported that a 10% colloidal oatmeal suspension inhibited prostaglandin synthesis by as much as 85%. The magnitude of prostaglandin inhibition was similar to that reported with indomethacin.

Finally, oatmeal is an effective cleanser that contains saponins that absorb dirt, oil, and sebaceous secretions while hydrophilic and lipophilic components absorb and solubilize aqueous debris.

Dr. Linda Sy was inspired by rosacea support group members making their own cleansing masks with oatmeal and water. She wondered if she could use colloidal oatmeal as a basis for a gentle rosacea cleanser. An extra bonus would be that it could sop up flakes associated with seborrheic dermatitis. This cleanser is well liked by the members of rosacea support. I find it cleanses really well, but does leave a slight tight feeling – which can be relieved with a gentle moisturizer.

We also know that after as little as 1 week using a colloidal oatmeal lotion (containing colloidal oatmeal, oat extract, humectants and a skin protectant) patients can see relief from dry itchy or scaly skin.

Johnson & Johnson, who make the Aveeno (avena is latin for oats) and Active Naturals range of products has a page on Oatmeal from their Aveeno Professional Site.

Products

Tips: do you have any tips for Colloidal Oatmeal that you’d like to share ? please leave a comment below.

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For product manufactured prior to July 2007

Clarisonic is voluntarily recalling Clarisonic handles and chargers in response to product safety concerns. The issue is limited to the product’s internal components, not to its effect on the skin. In some instances, the Clarisonic handle or charger can overheat, with the potential for injury or even catching fire. While there are no reports of serious injury or property damage, and the reported incidence rate has been less than 1 in 10,000, we are choosing to act with an abundance of caution.

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With the recent push by Clarisonic to promote their sonic brush as treatment for rosacea, I thought it might be interesting to see some reviews of users of the Clarisonic Skin Care System by rosacea sufferers. Although it is expensive, it does seem to be working quite well and so far no-one is reporting that it has irritated their skin. This is a bit of a surprise to me, that it is seemingly so well tolerated.

If you try it, please do let us know what you think. Leave a comment at the end of this post.

Yvette on Tue 10 Apr 2007 said,

I bought the Clarisonic brush about a week or two ago. I was nervous to use it at first because I did see conflicting notes about whether it’s okay for Rosacea. On the Clarisonic website it does have some pic’s for those with Rosacea and mild acne and that it’s okay to use. However, in the brochure that comes with the Clarisonic, it stated, if you have a skin condition (which Rosacea and acne are especially named) ask your health care professional before use.

I asked my Derm’s office (P.A.) and she hadn’t heard of it. Even my aesthetician hadn’t heard of it. Both my Derm. and aesthetician said to be cautious and don’t be over zealous with it. The brush comes with a sensitive brush and a normal skin brush. It says you can use twice a day. I’ve used only once a day, mainly in the morning, and it does seem to do a better job cleansing my skin versus by hand. The sensitive brush is very soft and doesn’t irritate. If I have a pimple (one with fluid) I avoid brushing. I wouldn’t recommend at all if you have active acne or pustular bumps; if pimples somehow pop while using the brush the germs will get on the brush and you can carry them to other areas of the face and more acne could result. Overall, my face is MUCH softer and cleaner after use. After I clean my face with the Clarisonic, I give my face several splashes of water. I rinse the brush in hot water each time and deep clean (in antibacterial soap) every few days. Over the past week, the texture of my skin has improved and my pores are cleaner. I don’t have any increased redness or irritation. My makeup goes on better and lasts longer too.

I just want to add the sensitive brush is very soft and when used it feels like a soft plushy towel is cleaning your face. Previously, I washed using my hands, but found sometimes my face wasn’t really clean. The brush bristles move in circular oscillating motions to work “with your skin” versus pulling it. The slight bumps (probably clogged pores) I had on my jaw line a few weeks ago are nearly gone. My face is definitely smoother and I have less bumps and clogged pores. I still get a few breakouts on my chin and try to avoid using the Clarisonic on this area until healed. When using, I use a very gentle non-soap cleanser (MD Forte non soap cleanser or Christine Chin sulfate free Ultra Calming Gel cleanser).

rosesarered on Sat 14 Apr 2007 said,

At any rate, it continues to seem to improve my skin pretty dramatically. I’ll say just briefly what my own skin is like, in the hopes that that might help others considering Clarisonic decide whether it’d be right for them. I have dry, dry skin with tiny flakes on my cheeks and nose. I have enlarged pores on my cheeks, and some permanent redness, accompanied by occasional flushes. In the past, my skin has responded favourably to exfoliants like Pond’s Purely Polished when VERY gently, carefully, and infrequently applied. My skin’s response to the exfoliant was one of the things that made me optimistic about Clarisonic, which seemed like a much gentler and chemical-free way to accomplish the same ends.

az21300 said on Fri 25 May 2007

I have been using the clarisonic brush for about a month and a half now. its amazing. it comes with a sensitive brush and and normal brush. i have now worked my way up to the normal brush and my skin is loving it. I use it twice a day with a CVS version of cetaphil. i find that my skin is about 2X’s as smooth as it was prior. it obviously hasn’t cured my rosacea but has helped a lot…

sprtmrg said on 24 Feb 2007,

I’ve tried it and found it to be very helpful. A spa I went to recommended it to me. At first I was not interested because I thought it would be too harsh for my sensitive skin. They had a whole box of of the delicate (blue) brush heads that they had gotten from the rep. They let me use their system with a new brush head to try it out and see if I liked it. My skin felt baby soft and smooth afterward.
I purchased the system in November for $150. They gave me a free blue brush head. The system comes with both white and gray but the blue is the most delicate. When you buy the system you also get a free one year subscription to Health magazine and a coupon good for two free brush heads, plus a coupon for a buy one get one brush head. I called the company and asked if I could get the blue and they said okay. The brush heads are $25 each full price. My skin type is oily with large pores and I tend to get a little bit of seb derm. I also get what seems like little bits of sand stuck inside my pores (chicken skin). This works miracles for that. My skin is softer and smoother and I’ve been using it since November. The seb derm is also gone and the machine has never made me turn red. Many things do but not the Clarisonic. The difference in the skin is like the difference between brushing your teeth or using one of those electric toothbrush systems (I use the Braun).

During this time I’ve been undergoing laser genesis treatments. If your doctor’s office has one you might be able to get a good deal. I hear Nordstrom sells the machines too and they have a very good return policy. I would think anyone with oily skin could give this a try but maybe those with very dry skin might need to be more careful. I’m not in any way affiliated with Clarisonic or get any type of benefit for promoting their product. I’ve tried so many things out there and this really seems to work for me. I hope this can help someone else too.

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[Update] Clarisonic have now released the Clarisonic Mia, a cheaper less-frills version of the Clarisonic Skincare System.

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Here are 2 more recent Poster Sessions promoting the usage of the Clarisonic Skin Care System.

Previous publications addressed treating seborrheic dermatitis with the Clarisonic brush. The manufacturers are now targeting their sonic brush as a treatment for rosacea itself. These papers are readying Clarisonic’s push into treating rosacea.

It is an interesting idea to approach cleansing from this angle. There are many reasons that topical cleansers are ineffective or poorly tolerated. Perhaps a brush that can be proven to be extremely gentle does offers an effective cleansing option for rosacea sufferers with sensitive skin.

Their publicity says that their skin care system uses “a sonic frequency to cleanse the skin”. It isn’t clear to me if that sonic frequency is just the oscillation of the heads at 300 times per second or whether something else is also involved. Any ideas about what the “sonic frequency” actually means here – surely it isn’t just a marketing term ?

Poster Abstracts, American Academy of Dermatology 66th Annual Meeting, February 1–5, 2008, San Antonio, Texas. Supplement to the JAAD, Feb 2008, Volume 58, Number 2.

Poster Session P103, Assessment of a sonic skin care brush used as part of a skin care regime and as an adjunct to prescription treatments for rosacea, Robert Akridge, PhD, Emily Henes , Katherine Ortblad, MPA, Gregory Peterson, PhD, Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, Inc, Bellevue, WA, United States.

Rosacea is a complex skin condition commonly characterized by facial redness, flushing, and visible blood capillaries. The National Rosacea Society (NRS) estimates that rosacea affects 14 million people in the United States. Its cause has been associated with everything from alcohol consumption, dietary triggers, stress, and nervous system disorders to a number of different microorganisms including the bacteria Helicobacter pylori and the skin mite Demodex folliculorum. However, the exact cause of rosacea has not been scientifically confirmed.

Rosacea triggers vary from patient to patient; the most common triggers include sun exposure, emotional stress, and heat. Whatever the underlying cause, oral antibiotics, sodium sulfacetamide cleansers, and topical creams (eg, metronidazole and azelaic acid) are commonly prescribed. While these treatments are effective, signs and symptoms often persist. The NRS reports in a multicenter study that the rate of relapse was 42% in those not using medication compared to 23% of those who continued to apply a topical antibiotic.

Dermatologists and their patients have reported improvement in symptoms and overall skin health when a sonic skin care brush is used as part of patients’ skin care regimen and as an adjunct to prescribed treatments. Historically, patients have been told to avoid mechanical methods of cleansing to avoid aggravating their skin or further disrupting the skin barrier. The sonic skin care brush has previously been reported as a safe and effective method of cleansing and additionally effective as an adjunct to the treatment of seborrheic dermatitis. We enrolled several subjects under long-term care for rosacea in a study assessing the efficacy and safety of daily use of a sonic skin care brush and report favorable outcomes. Subject history, noninvasive skin measurements, photographic results, and subject assessments will be presented.

100% sponsored by Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, Inc.

Poster Session P313, Benefits of a sonic skin care brush and new sonic body brush assessed through noninvasive measures of the skin, Gregory Peterson, PhD, Emily Henes, Katherine Ortblad, MPA, Robert Akridge, Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, Bellevue, WA, United States.

A sonic skin care brush was recently developed for facial cleansing; a new sonic body brush model (SBB; with separate facial [FBH] and body brush heads [BBH]) will soon be available for use before in-office procedures or at home for use on the face and body. The sonic brush was optimized with consideration for the physical properties of the skin, gently and effectively cleansing using an optimized amplitude and frequency. The sonic skin brush has proven particularly effective in patients with uneven skin associated with acne scarring or various dermatologic conditions.

Dermatologists and other skin care professionals are using it in combination with cosmetic procedures (chemical peels, PDT, laser, microdermabrasion, facials, etc.) and as part of the cleansing regimen and as an adjunct to prescription treatments of rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. Product efficacy of over the counter, in-office, and prescription topical products is partly dependent on their absorption into the skin. Factors affecting absorption include the chemical properties of the active ingredients, product formulation, and pH. Tape-stripping has become a useful tool for evaluating and comparing product absorption, allowing for the quantification of actives absorbed into the stratum corneum.

The stratum corneum can serve as a reservoir of topically applied chemical agents. Product absorption can also be enhanced through mechanical exfoliation (eg, microdermabrasion) in part through partial disruption of the skin barrier. Unlike many of these methods, the sonic skin care brush is gentle enough for twice daily cleansing. In this study, noninvasive measures of the skin (transepidermal water loss [TEWL; g/m2/h], colorimetric analysis, corneometry, and image analysis), artificial tanning exfoliation methodology, and a tape stripping method were employed to evaluate efficacy and safety of the new body brush, and product absorption following manual cleansing or cleansing with the sonic skin care brushes.

Under conditions of exaggerated use (1 minute in a 2 in 3 2 in area), differences in TEWL (post- and pre-measurements) were not significantly different between the SBB (with FBH), an adjacent untreated control site, or a nylon facial pad (P <.625 and .432, respectively). SBB (with BBH) studies are currently underway. Descriptions of methodology and outcomes will be presented.

100% supported by Pacific Bioscience Laboratories, Inc.

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