Rosacea affects an estimated 415 million people worldwide, according to a new study from the University of Copenhagen. Currently in the United States, only about 18% of individuals with rosacea are undergoing medical treatment, out of an estimated population of 16 million affected individuals. According to the American Academy of Dermatology’s Burden of Skin Disease report, lost productivity among patients and caregivers as a result of rosacea totaled $78 million, revealing significant adverse socioeconomic effects of the prevalent condition.
Current treatments focus on controlling symptoms through a combination of skincare products and prescription medications –including topical products, oral antibiotics, and isotretinoin – however, recurrences are common. The latest advancements in rosacea treatment are promising, revealing a marked reduction in symptoms with topical product use. Results of a clinical study by specialized skincare brand Colorscience were recently published in The Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, revealing clinical advancements in the reduction of redness associated with rosacea.
Study Findings
The 18-week study aimed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of daily use of the Colorscience multifunctional topical skincare regimen when used alone and in combination with Intense Pulsed Light therapy. Participants who used the two topical products – All Calm Clinical Redness Corrector SPF 50 and Sunforgettable Brush-On Shield SPF 50 – demonstrated significant improvement of symptoms.
The topical skincare regimen was applied daily for 12 weeks by 20 study participants. At the 12-week point, patients received a single IPL treatment after which the topical products were immediately applied. The same regimen was continued for an additional 6 weeks. Upon completion of the study, 100% of patients reported improved skin appearance immediately following application of the product, including post-treatment with IPL. At week 18, the mean redness score had significantly improved – by 33% from baseline.
Treatment Features
A significant reduction in overall facial redness is promising for patients looking for immediate relief. The All Calm Clinical Redness Corrector features a 3-in-1 formula designed to neutralize the appearance of redness and soothe sensitive skin, while the added patent pending BioSolace complex may provide relief to sensitive skin. Used in conjunction with Sunforgettable Brush-On Shield – for sun protection – the products may have a beneficial effect on redness and other rosacea symptoms. Due to its over-the-counter availability, the Colorscience skincare regimen could become an accessible and less severe treatment option than some of the other therapies on the market.
Additionally, the use of products may have reduced post-treatment side effects such as redness associated with IPL. The efficacy of the skincare regimen following other types of cosmetic treatments remains to be evaluated, as well as the relationship between Colorscience product use and side effects of multiple IPL sessions.
Due to the study’s limitations in size, duration, and potential conflict of interest, more research must be conducted to further evaluate the efficacy of these products in reducing rosacea symptoms. With such a large population group in mind, advancements in treatment are necessary to minimize both lost productivity among those affected and the high economic burdens of the condition.
