Rosacea is one of the most common skin complaints. It usually occurs in women and first appears when a woman is in her late 20s or early 30s. In its early stages, rosacea can cause a red flush on the cheeks that are accompanied by small red bumps. Many people mistake rosacea for adult onset acne, but they are two different conditions with two different treatment options. If left untreated, rosacea can spread and cause scarring, an enlarged nose and, in extreme cases, blindness.

Rosecea sufferers have special skin care needs. Harsh skin cleansers or alcohol based toners can cause a rosacea outbreak, but that doesn't mean that rosacea suffers should skip a cleansing routine.

If you have rosacea, you should select a mild, soap free cleanser that will not dry your skin. Look for products that are labeled for sensitive skin. Liquid cleansers are usually more gentle than bar soaps. You don't have to spend a lot for a good, mild cleanser. Neutrogena Foaming Face Wash is gentle and can be found at many mass retailers like Target and Walgreen's for under $7. Eucerin has recently introduced a new line of redness relief products aimed at rosacea sufferers. The products in Eucerin's line range from $6 to $15.

The next step in a good skin care routine is the application of an astringent or toner. Most toners contain alcohol, which can dry out the skin and make rosacea outbreaks worse. When looking for a toner, try to find one with a low alcohol content. There are few that are truly alcohol free, but there are many that have a low concentration. If you find a toner that has low alcohol, look for soothing ingredients like aloe vera to calm any alcohol related skin irritation.

Once your skin is clean and toned, it needs to be moisturized. The simpler the moisturizer the better. A basic skin care moisturizing lotion like Oil of Olay will be appropriate for most rosacea sufferers. If you choose to use an anti-aging moisturizer, check for alpha hydroxy acids. These chemicals are too harsh and can lead to an outbreak. Beta hydroxy acids are fine for rosacea sufferers between flare ups, but only soothing ingredients like aloe vera, cocoa butter and vitamin E should be used in the middle of a rosacea flare up.

Rosacea skin has special needs, but that doesn't mean you have to give up your skin care routine. With a little time shopping for mild products, you can keep your skin looking its best between rosacea flare ups.