Best Ingredients (and Worst Irritants) for Rosacea

By Dr Magnus Lynch
MA(Cantab) DPhil(Oxon) MRCS FRCP
Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatological Surgeon

Rosacea-prone skin can be highly sensitive to certain ingredients. The right ingredients can calm inflammation and strengthen the skin barrier, while the wrong ones can trigger a flare.

Which ingredients help barrier and redness?

Look for calming and barrier-supporting ingredients. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is excellent for reducing inflammation and improving barrier function. Ceramides help replenish the skin's natural protective lipids. Azelaic acid is available in lower concentrations without prescription and reduces both redness and inflammation.

Which commonly cause flares?

Steer clear of known irritants. The most common offenders include fragrance (both synthetic and natural, like essential oils), alcohol (especially SD alcohol or denatured alcohol), menthol and camphor. Abrasive physical scrubs and harsh chemical exfoliants like high-concentration glycolic acid can also strip the skin barrier and cause significant irritation.

Related articles

• A Simple Rosacea-Safe Skincare Routine
• How to Introduce New Products Without Flares
• Moisturisers That Don’t Sting Sensitive Skin

About Dr Magnus Lynch

I am a London-based Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon. I am highly experienced in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, Mohs micrographic surgery, facial reconstructive surgery, laser treatments, regenerative dermatology, acne, rosacea and acne scarring. Since 2019, I have been passionate about sharing information online about dermatology and skin care. I studied at the Universities of Cambridge and Oxford, and completed my dermatology training and Mohs fellowship at the prestigious St John’s Institute of Dermatology. I graduated from medical school in 2003 and have worked exclusively in Dermatology since 2012.

I lead a research team at King’s College London investigating the molecular biology of skin cancer and skin cancer diagnostics, and I constantly aim to translate the latest findings into better patient care. You can learn more about my Research.

In recent years I have been involved in Media Appearances, including the Channel 5 series 'Skin A&E', where I perform skin surgeries and treat various skin conditions. Filming for the next series has recently completed and the series will be released later in 2025.

How I can help

My NHS practice is at Guy's Hospital. I consult with private patients at several well-appointed and conveniently located sites across central London:

• London Bridge Hospital: Conveniently situated within The Shard, next to London Bridge station.
• Skin55 Ltd: Located at 55 Harley Street, this beautiful Edwardian building houses one of the largest private dermatology facilities in the UK with a comprehensive laser suite.
• OneWelbeck: Located close to Bond Street underground station. Mohs surgery, lasers, and other skin surgeries are performed in the state-of-the-art surgical suite here.

A new consultation is £250, a follow up consultation is £220. For more information on fees, please visit Prices.