atic stages: stage 1: in the earliest stage of rosacea, the most common symptoms can include subtle to moderate redness, stinging, burning, dryness or tightness of skin. tiny visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) may also appear on the skin's surface. skin may begin to react to certain cosmetics, and may also be more reactive to temperature changes or become sensitive to certain foods. stage 2: as the condition progresses, redness becomes more persistent. larger areas of the face may become affected. the formation of papules (red bumps) or pustules (resembling pimples) and swelling may develop. facial pores and sebaceous follicles may become larger and more prominent. stage 3: generally, stage-3 rosacea is less common, but individuals diagnosed with this advanced stage of rosacea exhibit all characteristics of stages 1 and 2. facial features may become thicker, irregular or even exhibit gradual deformation. affected areas of the skin become a deeper shade of red. the sebaceous glands may be extremely enlarged, contributing to further redness, inflammation, papules, pustules and swelling of facial features. if you believe you may have rosacea, do not delay in consulting a doctor for proper diagnosis and advice. suggestions for how to avoid and control flare-ups: medical experts have suggested some ways to avoid aggravating symptoms which include: avoid direct sunlight as rosacea symptoms can be triggered or worsened by exposure to sunlight. when in the sun, use a mild sunscreen. avoid rubbing or scrubbing affected areas, which can irritate the skin or stimulate increased blood flow to the areas. use mild soaps, moisturizers and sunscreens and be sure to gently apply them to the face in order to avoid irritating affected areas. avoid hot drinks, spicy foods and alcoholic beverages that can cause flushing. protect your skin from extreme hot and cold conditions. avoid cosmetics, soaps, and other facial products that contain ingredients such as alcohol, menthol and fragrances. keep a log of any products, medicines, foods or weather and/or environmental conditions that may trigger flushing episodes or symptom flare-ups in order to avoid them in the future. consult your doctor for treatment recommendations. some additional suggestions for overall good skin health: get adequate rest avoid emotional stress where possible avoid excessive/stressful exercise which might cause skin flushing drink adequate amounts of water daily keep hands and face clean shampoo hair regularly using a mild antibacterial shampoo avoid touching affected areas use a broad-spectrum, spf 25+ sunscreen and mild moisturizer daily how prosacea ® gel can help prosacea contains sulphur 1x, a medically recognized homeopathic ingredient that has been recognized for relief of common rosacea symptoms such as redness, bumps and irritation, when used as directed. prosacea 's non-oily formula is non-comedogenic (doesn't cause pimples) and won't clog pores. it is important for successful results that once treatment is started with prosacea , it is continued uninterrupted, carefully following and adhering to package directions until satisfactory results are achieved or given further advice from a doctor. for best results: after applying prosacea gel to your face, let it absorb fully into your skin before applying your moisturizer or sunscreen. www.prosacea.com no gluten ingredients