Azelaic acid
Azelaic acid is a
naturally occurring substance. It
is thought to possess certain
antibiotic and anti-inflammatory
properties. Azelaic acid
has been proven effective in
clinical studies at treating
papulo-pustular rosacea,
though no positive effect has been
demonstrated on telangiectasia
(blood vessels). In one study, a
15% azelaic acid cream was
demonstrated to be as
effective as 0.75% metronidazole
gel at reducing redness, papules, and pustules. [6] In another double-blind study
a 20% azelaic acid cream was compared to
placebo. Those persons
administered azelaic acid had significant
decreases in lesions and redness. The only reported side effect was
mild burning after application,
which typically resolved after several
applications. [7]
NADH
NADH is a
biochemically active form of
nicotinamide (Vitamin B3). It is
used in energy metabolism (the
production of ATP). It is also a
potent anti-oxidant. NADH protects
the integrity of cellular membranes
located throughout the body from damage by
free radicals. In one particular study, a 1% NADH ointment was applied daily to affected areas in
individuals with rosacea. These patients had significant improvement in
their overall symptoms with no
accompanying side effects. [8] The result of this study may show
NADH as a relevant topical treatment
for rosacea, as compared to
other notable topical
applications.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of
the most potent and active
anti-oxidants in the body. Being nutritive to the skin, it
also promotes tissue integrity and
tissue healing. Damage from free
radicals may play a role in the
development of rosacea. Vitamin C
can be used both topically and orally
for the treatment of rosacea. One
study found that daily use of a 5%
vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
preparation reduced erythema
(redness) in 75% of the
participants with rosacea. [9]
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is another
essential nutrient for skin
health. It promotes cellular
integrity and healing to
epithelial cells (skin). Vitamin A is
also considered a potent anti-oxidant,
and anti-inflammatory agent. Studies conducted on this vitamin
have shown this fat-soluble
vitamin to be effective at
treating rosacea. [10,11] This is thought to be caused by
its anti-oxidant
capabilities and the protective
effects it exerts on skin
cells.
Essential Fatty
Acids
Essential fatty
acids are anti-inflammatory in
nature. Proper intake of omega 3 and omega
6 fatty acids will inhibit
production of pro-inflammatory
molecules. This may provide
a significantly beneficial effect for individuals
with rosacea because the condition is a
chronic inflammatory disorder of
the skin. Supplementing with
essential fatty acids is also
beneficial for the skin, as the
constituents of these oils improves the integrity of
the cell
membranes. Sources of omega 3
fatty acids, include fish oils,
flaxseed oil, and black currant
seed oil. Sources of omega 6 fatty
acids are borage oil, evening
primrose oil, and sunflower oil.