From: “Linda Sy MD”
Date: Sat Jan 2, 1999 7:31 am
Subject: [rosacea] Re: zinc oxide
Hi Esther,
Your improvement from using zinc oxide, in my opinion, has scientific basis:
- It is a physical sunblock; hence it takes care of one rosacea trigger- the sun. The usual zinc oxide you buy, unlike the microfine ones used in sunscreens, will give only SPF of 4-6 at most. Therefore, you still have to cover up with a wide-brimmed hat.
- The opacity of zinc oxide leaves a thin whitish residue on the skin which neutralizes the ruddiness you have, thus giving you some camouflage.
- When you add vaseline (petrolatum) to the zinc oxide, the mixture lubricates the skin which diminishes the flaking and makes your skin feel better. The downside of zinc oxide are: it is chalky if applied thickly; it is greasy and not very esthetic and kind of cumbersome especially for men who are not used to applying much on their skin. Lastly, those with oily-combination type skin will definitely not be crazy about it.
Linda Sy M.D.
http://www.lindasy.com
—–Original Message—–
From: Esther231@_.com
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 1998 6:53 PM
Subject: [rosacea] Re: zinc oxide
Kerry, Please post whatever he/she says. I have been using it for close to seven years and have no problem but I bet your doctor would know more. I’m happy it’s working as well for you as it does for me. It doesn’t for everyone, I know. But I also know when it works, it works. Listen, I still can get into a flare with enough exposure to a trigger. So, please, keep tracking triggers. The zinc oxide is simply a coping tool, it is not a cure.
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1 Comment ↓
Have had rosacea since I was in my twenties. I am now 52, and it has flared up like never before. Possibly because of menopause. I have tried different cleansers and moisturizers, none worked. I bought a tub of zinc oxide, and OMG, my skin looks beautiful. I use it twice a day, using more at night because of the white pasty look. I use it in the morning, applying it sparingly to the redness, and then moisturizin with a cotton ball with sweet almond oil and liquid vegetable glycerin. I blend with my fingers, and wait about 10 minutes before applying my makeup. The zinc works like magic.