Alkalinity As The Key to Healing Rosacea

If you’re struggling with rosacea and dreaming of clear, glowing skin, you’ve probably tried all sorts of remedies. One idea that’s getting a lot of buzz is the importance of keeping your body alkaline. In this post, we’ll break down why an alkaline body can support the healing of rosacea and get that clear skin you’ve been wanting.

In this post about the link between alkalinity and rosacea, I’ll explain why an alkaline body can help you heal rosacea and get that clear skin you’ve been wanting.

What’s Rosacea Anyway?

Rosacea is a  healable “skin condition” that manifests as redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps on your face.

I’m putting skin condition in quotes because rosacea can be fully healed when we address the root causes.

Why Alkalinity Matters:

Your body’s pH level measures how acidic or alkaline it is, on a scale from 0 to 14. Below 7 is acidic, above 7 is alkaline.

Followers of the alkaline diet believe that keeping your body slightly alkaline (around 7.35 to 7.45) can make a big difference in your overall health, including your skin.

Here’s why…

It Reduces Inflammation

An alkaline body has been shown to lower inflammation. Since inflammation is a big part of what causes rosacea’s redness and irritation, eating alkaline foods like fruits and veggies helps calm things down.

Detoxifying The Body

Staying alkaline is also said to help your body get rid of toxins more efficiently. Since toxins have a direct impact on your skin, eating a diet that lowers your body’s acidity will help your skin clear up.

Balancing Your Skin’s Microbiome

Your skin’s health depends a lot on the balance of bacteria living on it. An alkaline body make it harder for bad bacteria to thrive, helping you avoid flare-ups as you work on root cause healing and keep your skin’s barrier strong.

Using pure, plant botanicals in your skincare is another way of ensuring your skin microbiome is respected and strengthened. This is why I intentionally chose the ingredients in my rosacea skincare line.

How to Go Alkaline

Want to give the alkaline approach a try? Here are some easy tips:

Eat More Plants: Load up on alkaline-supportive foods like fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds. These can help balance out the acidity from processed foods and meat.

Drink Lots of Lemon Water: Staying hydrated is crucial in removing toxins. Adding lemon to your water is alkalizing once it’s metabolized by your body, even though it tastes acidic.

Nervous System Regulation: Stress absolutely makes your body more acidic. Try meditation, yoga and breathing exercises to keep your stress levels in check. I’m also a BIG fan of nervous system regulation (game-changing).

Download this free e-book called How Healing Happens by Dr. Cathleen King. (I recommend it to ALL my clients!)

Foods That Promote An Acidic Environment

Certain foods are known to create acidity in the body. These are often referred to as acid-forming foods. Here are some common ones:

1. Processed Foods:
   • Packaged snacks
   • Fast food
   • Processed meats (like sausages and hot dogs)
2. Sugary Foods and Beverages:
   • Soda
   • Candy
   • Desserts with high sugar content
3. Grains:
   • White bread
   • White rice
   • Pasta made from refined flour
4. Animal Products:
   • Red meat (beef, pork)
   • Poultry
   • Fish
   • Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
5. Alcohol:
   • Beer
   • Wine
   • Spirits
6. Caffeine:
   • Coffee
   • Black tea
   • Energy drinks filled with sugar

Reducing the intake of these acid-forming foods and balancing your diet with more alkaline-forming foods (like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds) helps maintain a better pH balance in your body.

*A proper protein intake is essential to a healthy body so please note that I’m not saying to avoid meat protein. Adding  lots of fresh, organic veggies to your plate is essential to balance alkalinity as well as eliminating inflammatory foods + working on gut healing,

Conclusion

While we’re still learning about the link between alkalinity and rosacea, keeping your body more alkaline is a simple and natural way to lower inflammation in the body.

But alkalinity alone will most likely not heal rosacea. To fully heal your skin you’ll have to address underlying issues.

To learn more about a functional way to heal rosacea, please visit my website healrosaceanaturally.com and watch the free rosacea masterclass.

Rosacea Articles

Exploring the Root Causes of Rosacea

In this blog post, we’ll explore the root causes of rosacea and the underlying factors that may contribute to its development. Please note that this is not a deep dive but an overview.

Rosacea is characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. While the popular approach is to “treat” rosacea with pharmaceutical creams, antibiotics and other drugs, this approach never actually results in healing.

To fully heal rosacea, we need to understand and address the root causes. (There is never just one root cause, if there was, healing rosacea would be easy.)

To learn more about a functional way to heal rosacea, please visit my website healrosaceanaturally.com and watch the free rosacea masterclass.

Genetics as a root cause of rosacea?

A quick Google on the topic of the root causes of rosacea will reveal that a factor influencing the onset of rosacea is genetics. Research suggests a hereditary component, with individuals having a family history of rosacea being more predisposed to developing the condition. Specific genetic markers may play a role in determining an individual’s susceptibility to rosacea, highlighting the importance of understanding one’s family medical history.

However, in my work with clients, I have seen that genetics was rarely a factor as clients reported not having anyone in the family with rosacea. (I know this was the case for me.)

More recently, research has shown that genetics only account for 10% or less of an outcome, while epigenetics (influencing factors over the genetic component) accounts for over 90%. So to say that we have no control over the genetic expression of rosacea would be false. Nutrition, lifestyle and identifying the root causes while greatly affecting your skin.

Dysregulation of the Immune System as a root cause of rosacea

The immune system’s role in rosacea is a subject of growing interest among researchers. Some studies propose that an abnormal immune response may contribute to the development of rosacea. Inflammation plays a key role, and the immune system’s overreaction to environmental triggers may lead to the characteristic redness and swelling associated with the condition.

So what can trigger the immune system? Food sensitivities, pathogens such as viruses, parasites and bacteria, candida or bacterial overgrowth and an unhealthy, leaky gut.

Fix the gut and a big part of what triggers rosacea is taken care of.

Vascular Abnormalities in Rosacea

Vascular abnormalities are another aspect of rosacea’s complex puzzle. Blood vessels near the skin’s surface may dilate excessively, leading to increased blood flow and redness. Factors such as sun exposure, spicy foods, and alcohol, known triggers for many individuals with rosacea, can exacerbate these vascular changes.

Understanding and managing these triggers are important components of effective rosacea care but are only part of the puzzle, they are not getting us to the root causes. To fully heal rosacea, we need to look deeper than the skin.

Cathelicidin LL-37 and rosacea

Research has shown that cathelicidin LL-37 is strongly increased in the affected area of skin in rosacea. This peptide has proinflammatory action and an “alarm” function, affecting vascular growth, thus leading to angiogenesis and neovascularization.

Although this helps us understand a bit more about the physical manifestation of rosacea, we still need to dig deeper as to WHY cathelicidin LL-37 is increased in the first place.

Microscopic Demodex Mites and Bacteria

Another possible root cause of rosacea is Demodex mites. In recent years, researchers have explored the role of microscopic organisms in the development of rosacea. Demodex mites, tiny arachnids that inhabit human skin, have been found in higher concentrations on the skin of individuals with rosacea.

Additionally, certain bacteria, particularly Helicobacter pylori, have been studied for their potential connection to rosacea.

While these associations are not definitive causes (we still need to ask WHY are there an overabundance of Demodex on rosacea skin?!), they provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between the skin and its microscopic inhabitants.

Learn more about a natural treatment for Demodex mites and rosacea here.

Environmental Triggers (not a root cause of rosacea IMO)

Sensitivity to environmental factors or triggers are not, in my opinion, root causes but influencing factors.  Ex: sensitivity to sunlight, extreme temperatures, spicy foods, and certain skincare products that can trigger flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is an important aspect of “managing” rosacea, yes, but will not bring about full healing as to do so, we have to dig deeper.

I am mentioning it here because it’s important to know and manage triggers so that you can at least feel better temporarily WHILE doing the deeper healing work.

Environmental Toxicity

Environmental toxicity is different than a trigger as it can be a root cause of rosacea. Examples of environmental toxicity could be exposure to mold, chemicals and heavy metals just to name a few.

This brings us to gut healing…

Gut dysbiosis & pathogens as a root cause of rosacea

Other possible root causes of rosacea to consider are food sensitivities, leaky gut, SIBO, parasites and candida. All of these affect the gut microbiome which affects the skin. Addressing gut dysbiosis is crucial in healing rosacea. Gut healing is therefore the first step in the bio-individual rosacea healing blueprint I create for my clients.

More on gut health and rosacea here.

If you’d like to dive deeper into the topic of gut dysbiosis and the multiple rosacea root causes, watch the free rosacea masterclass.

Hormonal Imbalances and Rosacea

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes, including those related to the skin. Fluctuations or imbalances in hormone levels can influence the development and exacerbation of skin conditions, including rosacea.

Emotional root cause of rosacea

The emotional root cause of rosacea is not often talked about yet, traumas that were established in childhood can manifest later in life as rosacea, acne, eczema or psoriasis. This is a complex topic that Nadeije and I explore in our program Self-Heal.

Conclusion

Rosacea’s root causes are undoubtedly intricate and multifaceted, involving a delicate interplay of genetic, immune, vascular, and environmental factors. The sooner you shift from fixing the skin (rosacea is not a skin issue but an internal inflammatory issue) the faster you can see progress on your journey to glow.

For an extensive library of resources on healing rosacea naturally and holistically, please visit healrosaceanaturally.com

Never give up, there is ALWAYS hope. With the right support and guidance, you will regain clear skin.

Caroline Dalia Kaliani

Skin Herbalist & Functional Nutrition Practitioner healrosaceanaturally.com
Founder Journey To Glow journeytoglow.com
Botanical Skincare for Rosaceabshop.journeytoglow.com

Rosacea Articles

Natural Treatment For Demodex Mites & Rosacea

If you’ve just learned about the link between Demodex mites and rosacea and are looking for a natural treatment, you’re at the right place.

In this article, we’re going to go over what Demodex mites are, why they affect rosacea skin, and how to treat Demodex mites naturally.

What are Demodex mites?

Microscopic Demodex mites are a natural part of the human microbiome — the ecological community of microorganisms that live within and on the body. There are two species of Demodex mites found in humans: Demodex folliculorum which live in hair follicles, primarily on the face as well as in the meibomian glands of the eyelids and Demodex brevis which live in the sebaceous glands of the skin.

Demodex folliculorum’s true connection to rosacea may be linked to a distinct bacterium associated with the mites, called Bacillus oleronius.

Not everyone with rosacea has an overabundance of Demodex mites so if you’re reading this and you’re unsure if you struggle with these buggers, read on to determine if that’s the case for you or not.

Why are Demodex mites more prevalent on rosacea skin?

While Demodex folliculorum are found on the skin of all humans, they frequently occur in greater numbers in people with rosacea. There has been much debate as to whether their increased numbers are a cause or result of rosacea. However, evidence appears that an overabundance of Demodex may possibly trigger an immune response in people with rosacea, or that the inflammation may be caused by certain bacteria associated with the mites.

From rosacea.org:

“Rosacea is currently considered by most authors as a disease of the immune system, an inflammatory process including innate and then adaptive immune responses, which gets out of control resulting in vascular, inflammatory, and hypertrophic symptoms.

While it likely induces immunotolerance, Demodex is also able to stimulate the immune system’s defense reaction [34, 43, 57, 58, 104, 110]. It stimulates Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) [58], resulting in an increased production of LL-37, with the subsequent angiogenesis and inflammation that are described in rosacea [15–18]. This implies the existence of a vicious circle including ETR, mite proliferation, and inflammation [10].

Demodex proliferation, therefore, seems to contribute to the continuum process in rosacea across all phenotypes.”

How do you know if you have Demodex mites?

You’ll know you have Demodex mites if you have red, blotchy breakouts every 3 weeks or so (this is the living cycle of mites, more on that below). Sometimes these breakouts will show up in strange patterns like a zig-zag or will occur at the same spots on your face.

You may also feel an itching, crawling sensation on the face, scalp, or other parts of the body. Usually, this is felt at night (the mites are said to be more active at night) but I’ve also heard people report that their skin would itch when their skin feels “hot” mid-day.

Another unfortunate side effect of Demodex mites is enlarged pores and you may also see pustular papular rosacea with damaged capillaries and thickening of the nose.

Although again, we’re not sure which one comes first, the Demodex causing the initial inflammation or the Demodex being attracted/finding it easier to thrive on inflamed, rosacea skin.

Photo from rosacea.org

Diagnosis of Demodex mites

Definitive diagnosis of Demodex involves viewing an epilated eyelash under the microscope or scraping of the skin. An ophthalmologist, dermatologist, or Naturopathic practitioner equipped with a good microscope would be able to do this for you.

Dr. Sharol wrote on her blog You are The Healer: “You can see the mites with a good 10X magnifying glass in the skin if you tease them out with tea tree oil. It usually works best to put some diluted tea tree oil on the skin and wait for 5 minutes and apply again. Wait a couple of minutes and look. Be aware it is hard to find them and see them. You have to purchase a high-quality hand lens to see them. “

Why it’s difficult to get rid of Demodex mites (but still possible)

Because they spend most of their time tucked inside the pores and only come out at night to mate and then lay back inside sebaceous gland/follicles to lay their eggs (sorry, I know it’s disgusting) which will create the next round of mites, it’s a little challenging to get rid of them, in a short period of time at least.

Patience (and not losing hope!) is key as you will most likely need to stay the course with your Demodex / rosacea skincare regime for 2 to 3 months, maybe longer.

Tackling rosacea & Demodex mites from the inside-out

Even the best, most effective skincare products or Demodex mites treatments will not work if you do not address the inflammatory response in your body that’s causing rosacea in the first place.

Unfortunately, in our society where allopathic medicine dominates, we are told that rosacea is incurable (not true) and prescribes pharmaceutical quick fixes always end up making things worse. Suppressing symptoms only has your body speak louder trying to get your attention on what’s going inside that needs healing. The popular medications given to rosacea patients such as antibiotics destroy the gut microbiome, which you need for optimum digestion AND to have clear skin. Pretty much everyone that I’ve spoken to that was prescribed medications report temporary relief or worsening of symptoms in the long run.

Remember, rosacea is not a skin condition, it is the result of inflammation in the body. 

Your skin is a mirror showing you what needs to be addressed on a deeper level, the problem is most people are trying to “fix” their skin, never looking at the root cause. Rosacea is not a curse, your skin is not angry and it’s not her fault. Your skin is trying to tell you something, your job is to investigate to get to the root cause. 

In client’s sessions, I always make sure they have a clear plan to heal their gut, support their liver’s detoxification process, lower histamine and inflammatory foods, and lower the overall inflammation in the body which is one of the culprits causing rosacea in the first place. Looking into immune response, hormonal imbalances and stress is also key to getting to the root cause.

As you investigate the root cause, you may need to invest in functional testing in order to pinpoint specifically what’s going on in the body, especially if elimination diets haven’t worked.

Functional testing will help identify:

• Pathogens in the gut that may be causing dysbiosis
• Food sensitivities
• SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth)
• Hormonal imbalances
• Heavy metal toxicity

This is a functional approach to healing that ensures long-term success.

Making the terrain inhospitable for Demodex mites by lowering systemic inflammation and supporting your body’s overall health

As I just mentioned, to fully heal rosacea and achieve a healthy skin microbiome, going to the root cause is key.

While you are working with a Functional or Naturopathic practitioner, consider also supporting your body and skin health by ensuring that you have adequate levels of vitamins and minerals.

You may need to add Vitamin A, vitamin D, E, B vitamins, vitamin C (a building block for clear skin), magnesium, zinc, selenium, and high-quality omega 3 fatty acids. A probiotic can be a good idea to help restore the gut microbiome (assuming you’ve removed inflammatory foods in the first place) however since SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth) is present in a large number of rosacea patients, you’ll want to rule out SIBO before adding MORE bacteria to your gut microbiome or you’ll make things worst.

Low stomach acid (low levels of HCL) is also an issue, and addressing that can have an immediate effect on your skin.

I’ve mentioned the link between low HLC (hydrochloric acid) and rosacea and the need to restore the proper function of hydrochloric acid in the stomach: a good Super Enzyme formula with ox bile and HCL can make a huge difference in your digestion and ultimately the look of your skin. Before we even look at healing gut dysbiosis, we need to optimize digestion via the stomach. I’ve seen so many people go through SIBO treatments (including myself) only to have the protocol fail because not enough focus was put on stomach acid.

A reminder here that we are not after supplemental quick fixes but that knowing what to look for will have you be better prepared in future conversations with a holistic practitioner.

If this feels like too much information and you’d like some guidance on where to start you can book a rosacea consult with me. We’ll create a clear map with simple action steps so that you do not feel overwhelmed nor waste your time and money on supplements or treatments that you may not need.

Natural Treatment For Demodex Mites & Rosacea

*Please be discerning with essential oils if you have rosacea. Most rosacea skin is already sensitized and fragile, it may be a better option to opt for a face oil that does not contain essential oils such as Calm Skin Calendula and Radiantly Clear Face Oil.

Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil 

One of the most studied natural solutions for Demodex mites in rosacea is tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) in the form of essential oil.

Although tea tree oil likely has multiple modes of action and likely contains multiple molecular species with antimicrobial properties, since it has an action against bacteria, fungus, and parasites terpinen‐4‐ol is the most active tea tree oil molecular compound against Demodex. [Source]

“Australian tea tree oil (TTO) and its extract terpinen-4-ol (T4O) are found to be effective in moderating demodex-related diseases. Their possible effects are lowering the mite counts, relieving the demodex-related symptoms and modulating the immune system especially the inflammatory response.” [Source]

These are just a few of the studies you’ll find when you Google “benefits of tea tree oil in killing Demodex mites.”

But before you run out and get yourself a bottle of Melaleuca, I must warn you that tea tree oil is EXTREMELY potent and can burn your skin!

Essential oils are very effective plant medicine but why are VERY potent and can cause skin sensitivity. Knowing how to use them safely is paramount otherwise you risk damaging your skin barrier further.  This blend is formulated with essential oils and will work for most rosacea skin, including sensitized skin.

Other Essential oils for Demodex mites

Although tea tree oil is the most studied, there are a number of really effective essential oils that can make the skin microbiome unfavorable to Demodex mites as well such as:

Frankincense (from Boswellia carterii, frereana, sacra and papyrifera)

Frankincense contains a complex mixture of monoterpenes such as alpha-pinene, Limonene, alpha-Thujene, and beta-Pinene. Frankincense has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic properties. Frankincense benefits include the ability to strengthen skin and improve its tone, elasticity, and defense mechanisms against bacteria. Frankincense’s cytophylactic properties stimulate cell regeneration and also protect older cells from free radical damage.

Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium)

Manuka essential oil has a unique chemical composition, including several volatile aromatic compounds that are rarely found in other essential oils. These compounds are triketones: molecules containing three ketone groups in their chemical structure. By concentration, the most present triketones in Manuka essential oil are sesquiterpenes, E-calamenene, and leptospermone.

Manuka oil has antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiparasitic, medicinal, therapeutic properties. [Source]

We use Manuka essential oils in our Radiantly Clear EOS formulation.

Roman chamomile (Anthemis nobilis)

Roman chamomile’s main chemical components (4-methylamyl angelate, isobutyl angelate, isoamyl tiglate) contribute to the oil’s calming, cooling and soothing properties for the skin. The biological effects of EOs cover a wide range of effects, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activity. [Source]

If you are sensitive to essential oils, look for a face oil that uses an infusion of chamomile and other medicinal plants such as The Appease Anti-Itch Face Oil.

Helichrysum (Helichrysum italicum)

Helichrysum is supportive of aging, damaged, and inflamed skin. helichrysum significantly enhances the rejuvenation process of cells which supports skin health. It has an overall cleansing effect while uplifting the mood and lowering stress. Due to its cooling action, helichrysum is beneficial for inflamed skin.

Helichrysum is used in our ultra-popular skin-saving balm.

Copaiba (Copaifera reticulata, officinalis, coriacea,and langsdorffii)

Copaiba help clarify the skin and reduce the appearance of acne and blemishes.

Beta-caryophyllene, a major constituent of copaiba oil, has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil and massage onto your skin to help reduce swelling and redness. It can also help with skin conditions like Rosacea and Eczema.

Copaiba essential oil and oleoresin contain large amounts of beta-caryophyllene, a molecule that interacts with cannabinoid receptors in your skin. This causes skin cells to produce beta-endorphin, one of the happiness hormones.

Beta-caryophyllene is also a potent anti-inflammatory agent and copaiba is one of the safest oils to use on the skin. It can be very useful in healing, soothing irritation and treating chronic skin disease. [Source]

Combining these oils to Melaleuca can make the formula that much more effective to combat Demodex mites. You’ll find this blend already made for you in the Radiantly Clear Botanical Rosacea / Demodex Skincare system.

Antibacterial carrier oils

When choosing a carrier oil for skincare products, you’ll want to look for carrier oils that have a potent anti-bacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effect.

Carrier oils that will make the terrain inhospitable for mites are:

Black Cumin Seed oil (Nigella sativa) 

Used topically, Black Cumin Seed Carrier Oil hydrates, soothes, smoothes, and nourish the skin, addresses fungal infections and blemishes, promotes the skin’s reparation and regeneration, thus facilitating a smoother, clearer, and brighter complexion

Black Cumin Seed Carrier Oil eliminates harmful topical bacteria, stimulates a strong immune response, facilitates skin’s healing process, and eases muscular aches and joint pain.

Black Cumin Seed oil is the main oil I used in the Radiantly Clear Face Oil formulated to tackle Demodex mites while reducing redness and keeping the skin hydrated and plump.

Neem oil (Azadirachta indica)

Neem Oil is rich in fatty acids (oleic acid and linoleic acid), limonoids, vitamin E, triglycerides, and antioxidants. All of these ingredients provide immense benefits for the skin.

Neem oil is also medicinal. Due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, it’s used to treat many skin diseases and infections.

Organic Neem Oil is used in the Radiantly Clear Essential Oil Blend.

Hydrosols to balance the PH of your skin

While using a hydrosol will not kill Demodex mites, it will help maintain a healthy skin barrier. The healthier your skin barrier is, the better equipped she is to fight off the mites.

Using a pure flower hydrosol can also do wonders in maintaining an optimum PH balance as well as gently nourishing the skin when using hydrosols made with pure plant botanicals. In the Radiantly Clear Botanical Skincare System, I specifically selected pure organic rose, melissa, helichrysum italycum, and carrot seed oil hydrosols. Combined together, these magnificent flower waters hydrate, nourish and calm stressed, inflamed skin.

*Finding a pure hydrosol that does not contain alcohol is extremely hard to find. For my Radiantly Clear system, I’m working with a local master distiller that only uses and bottles pure hydrosols.

Learn more about hydrosols for sensitive, rosacea-prone skin here.

Other plant compounds that may help tackle Demodex mites:

• Aloe is a natural moisture retainer and has antibacterial properties. Ever since adding aloe + MSM to my skincare routine, my skin is less dry, especially in winter.

• MSM sulfur (used in my Aloe & MSM Serum) has been shown to kill Demodex mites when used consistently. From JAAD (Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology): “These antibacterial properties have been demonstrated against Propionibacterium acnes, some Streptococci, and Staphylococcus aureus. Sulphur has also been shown to kill Demodex mites, which have been implicated as a possible causative factor in rosacea.”[Source]

Demodex mites and rosacea skincare ritual

If you are currently battling with Demodex breakouts you’ll want to be very consistent with your skincare regimen.

Here are my top tips to make the most of your skincare ritual:

#1 Once a week, use a gentle botanical exfoliating powder that will deeply cleanse and get rid of dead skin cells. Do not overuse exfoliants though, as they may aggravate your skin.

You may also want to look for a non-foaming tea tree oil cleanser (foaming cleansers are notorious for drying out the skin.)

#2 Use pure flower hydrosol to calm and soothe your skin throughout the day. I leave a few hydrosols in the frig and it’s wonderfully cooling and soothing! A pure hydrosol can be used even if you’re wearing makeup although you will get the most benefit on clean skin.

#3 Leave your face oil or EOS roller bottle by your bed at night so you can reach it easily if your skin starts to itch.

#4 A honey mask has natural antibacterial properties. You can DYI this by blending a teaspoon of the Botanical Cleansing & Exfoliating Powder with local organic honey to make a mask 2 or 3 times a week. This mask is deeply soothing and nourishing to dry, itchy skin.

#5 Change your pillowcase every day and wash your hair often. You don’t want to sleep on a dirty pillowcase or have greasy hair rub on your face during the night. We’re not aiming for perfection or obsession here so do what makes sense.

#6 If your skin is super dry, opt for a nourishing balm at bedtime. You can help the balm penetrate deeper by massaging your face with your fingers or using a gua sha or Kansa wand tool. It’s a beautiful ritual to do before bedtime. Learn more about gua sha and rosacea.

#7 Taking some time to rest and rejuvenate will do wonders for your skin by supporting your body in entering a parasympathetic state. A constant “on the go” stressful state can keep healing at bay, as the body cannot heal when stressed. So make sure you integrate self-care practices in your everyday life such as sophrology, meditation and yoga nidra.

#8 Be kind to yourself. There’s nothing worse than negative self-talk, especially when we look in the mirror and are unhappy with our skin. Change your inner dialogue and be kind to yourself. Our skin and body are constantly trying to get back into an optimum state of balance and health. Our language and thoughts play a key role in our healing. Being aware of negative self-talk and stopping it dead in its tracks is crucial if you’re ever going to experience full and complete healing.

How to use the Radiantly Clear System formulated for Rosacea / Demodex

In the morning, start with the Botanical Cleansing & Exfoliating Powder (which I leave on my face to “act” for at least 5 minutes) followed by the Aloe & MSM Serum.

Next, abundantly mist your face with Soothing Flower Water (inhale deeply, it smells so good!) following up with the Radiantly Clear Face Oil. Mist the hydrosol again and press the pure plant water molecule into your skin. You will love how plump and hydrated your skin feels!

If you have Demodex or rosacea breakouts, roll the Radiantly Clear Essential Oil Blend on targeted areas, and feel free to repeat throughout the day if you’re not wearing makeup.

Leave the products to work before putting on any SPF or makeup. If you can, allow for 10 / 15 minutes.

If you do not wear makeup you can use your hydrosol and Radiantly Clear Essential Oil Blend throughout the day if needed.

I hope this article was helpful, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions and most of all, don’t give up! Getting rid of Demodex mites and healing rosacea is absolutely possible and it’s possible for you too!

Healing rosacea is possible!

Getting rid of the overabundance of Demodex mites and healing rosacea is absolutely possible. As you’ve read today, it involves a holistic, mind-body approach.

Wherever you are on your journey to glow, please don’t give up. As someone who’s been on the journey myself, I know how challenging it can be. But if you take one step at a time and stay consistent and apply a functional approach to healing, you will see results.

Healing rosacea is possible!

Getting rid of the overabundance of Demodex mites and healing rosacea is absolutely possible. As you’ve read today, it involves a holistic, mind-body approach.

Wherever you are on your journey to glow, please don’t give up. As someone who’s been on the journey myself, I know how challenging it can be. But if you take one step at a time and stay consistent and apply a functional approach to healing, you will see results.

If you need extra guidance, visit my new website healrosaceanaturally.com

JTG #68 Histamine & Acne Rosacea With Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner Tamy Anderson

JTG #68 Histamine & Acne Rosacea With Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner Tamy Anderson

In this episode, Tamy Anderson — Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner– and I talk about how histamine intolerances can trigger skin issues such as acne, rosacea and eczema.

We also cover:

How digestion starts as we prepare and cook our food
The importance of eating with presence (not with Netflix)
Simple things you can do to lower inflammation in your body
The different detox pathways of the body and how to support them
How to maximize detox without creating a skin crisis, especially if you have acne, rosacea or eczema
Why you should avoid toxins in your environment such as plastic bottles,  chemicals in your skincare and foods
How to be strategic eliminating trigger foods
The impact of too much histamine on the body
Why grains can create inflammation in the body
The problem with phytic acid and lectin
Why gluten never gets a free pass with Tamy

Tamy’s website tamyanderson.com

Tamy on Instagram instagram.com/tamyanderson_fdn

Tamy’s quiz on histamine tamyanderson.com/histamine-quiz

JTG #67 How To Treat Rosacea Naturally with Naturopathy

with Dr. Julie Greenberg

How to treat rosacea naturally with naturopathy, Dr. Julie Greenberg.

In this episode, my guest Dr. Julie Greenberg, Naturopathic ND & Registered Herbalist shares how we can treat rosacea naturally with naturopathy. We also dive into the link between gut health and hair loss and how she approaches both skin and hair with an inside-out approach to healing.

About our guest

Dr. Greenberg is a licensed Naturopathic Doctor (ND) and Registered Herbalist RH(AHG) who specializes in integrative dermatology. She is passionate about natural skincare and believes that many of today’s chronic skin diseases can be healed by using evidence-based alternative treatments.

Dr. Greenberg’s health journey took her from a career in business to becoming a health care warrior. She received a BA in Economics from Northwestern University and an MBA from Stanford University and had a successful career in finance.

But a diagnosis of Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism made her rethink everything she knew about health. A leading endocrinologist wrote her a prescription and told her that there was nothing more they could do for her. So, she got to work researching.  She learned that women put an average of 125 chemicals on their skin every day through personal care products and that many of these chemicals are endocrine disruptors and toxins. She started studying and making her own skin care products and saw the healing power of herbs and plants firsthand. She decided to dedicate her life to her passion and attended Bastyr’s four-year naturopathic medical school.  While there, she received advanced clinical training with leading experts in dermatology at the University of Washington Medical School and Seattle Children’s Hospital.

Dr. Greenberg practices functional medicine and is an expert herbalist.  She writes peer-reviewed medical dermatology articles for LearnSkin.com and is dedicated to using science-based research to find better solutions for our skin care diseases.

In this podcast, we dive into the following:

1. How to treat rosacea naturally with naturopathy Dr. Julie Greenberg ND
2. Steps to restore gut balance
3. How to reduce exposure to toxins in our everyday life
4. Skincare to keep the acid mantle acidic not alkaline
5. How to support the detoxification process of the liver
6. Stool tests to give you a clear diagnosis of the pathogens in the gut
7. Tests to look for mold and candida with a dry urine test
8. Our favorite hydrosols & face oils for rosacea skincare
9. How she goes about treating hair loss from the inside-out
10. The link between h pylori, SIBO and rosacea

Scroll down to watch my video interview with Dr. Julie Greenberg and learn all about our favorite rosacea skincare, the gut / skin connection and how to treat rosacea naturally thanks to the inside-out approach of naturopathy.

To dive deeper into a functional approach to healing rosacea + skincare for rosacea, please visit our sister website: healrosaceanaturally.com

Resources for rosacea:

• healrosaceanaturally.com/blog
• Free rosacea masterclass
• Podcasts and articles on rosacea journeytoglow.com/category-rosacea
• Rosacea botanical skincare shop.journeytoglow.com
• Natural rosacea skincare for Demodex mites

Functional Nutrition & Herbal Medicine For Rosacea

As a Functional Nutrition Practitioner, Skin Herbalist, Certified Advanced Transformative Coach, and someone who’s personally been on a rosacea healing journey, I’m equipped to work with clients in a unique capacity.

My approach – which is personalized and designed to support each of my clients’ bio-individuality – enables me to get to the root cause(s) that brings about skin inflammation.

Once we’ve pinpointed the possible root causes (emotional, physical, or environmental), we work to support the body back into balance, so it can heal itself.

The result? Clear, glowing skin.

Dr. Greenberg’s website integrativedermatologycenter.com

Recommended water filters + article on the benefits of drinking clean water

FREE MASTERCLASS

Get FREE access to a 30-minute masterclass where you’ll explore 9 misconceptions about rosacea and how to create momentum on your healing journey.

JTG #64 Detoxing The Body, Energy Medicine & EMF Sensitivities With Health Intuitive Masami Covey

JTG #64 Detoxing The Body, Energy Medicine & EMF Sensitivities With Health Intuitive Masami Covey

Masami’s website: masamicovey.com

Facebook facebook.com/zenshinmethod

Masami’s Cosmic Flow free webinar

Zenshin’s Youtube channel

JTG #51 Beautiful Skin That Glows From Within With Dr. Isabel Sharkar

JTG#51 Beautiful Skin From Within With Dr. Isabel Sharkar

In this episode of the Journey To Glow podcast we talk to Dr. Isabel Sharkar NMD about clear, glowing skin from within.

About our guest…

After receiving her B.S. in Biology from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and joining the Georgetown Summer Medical program in Washington, D.C., Dr. Isabel Sharkar was lead to the hot Sonoran desert of Arizona. Being in constant pursuit for truth and healing she graduated in 2011 from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine. Post graduating from SCNM, Dr. Isabel returned to Washington, D.C. to partner with her mother and best friend, Snejana Sharkar where they founded their brain child Indigo Integrative Health Clinic.

Three years into her practice, Dr. Isabel pursued her dream of living part time in London, United Kingdom. With her husband, she founded the company Super Human Earth (SHE), a conscious lifestyle brand. SHE has been a huge inspiration to Indigo and vice-versa. She writes for many beauty magazines and websites on healthy skin, eating for beauty and detoxing from the inside out.

Today Dr. Isabel Sharkar is back in her private practice located in the heart of Georgetown as she plans for construction of her Healing Retreat Sanctuary in Portugal. Her special interests include Conscious Lifestyle Consulting™, Body Optimization, IV Therapy, anti-aging, beauty, regeneration, cleansing and detoxification.

Being a firm believer in the principle, “Let food be thy medicine,” Dr. Isabel interned with Lisa Wilson at the Raw Food Institute in 2013, and since then has further developed extensive knowledge in all areas of nutrition. From personal experience as vegetarian, vegan and paleo to pegan (paleo-vegan), ketogenic and mucusless, Dr. Isabel has you covered.

Dr. Isabel’s firmly believes in empowering her patients through knowledge and education whilst restoring their health in the least aggressive way possible. Provided the right tools, the body has an innate ability to heal itself. Healing is multi-dimensional and must include all aspects of each individual- mind, body and soul. Never underestimate the power of belief.

Dr. Isabel takes great pleasure in intertwining ancient healing practices with western medicine, thus making them more available and accessible to the public.

In this episode we cover:

• What is IV therapy
• How to pick a IV therapy clinic that is trustworthy
• Key beauty supplements
• Isabel’s approach to understanding and healing skin issues
• Isabel’s favorite plants for inner and outer beauty
• NAD IV therapy to power up your cells for inside-out beauty
• How to shift the anti-aging conversation into a healthy, empowered one
• Isabel’s pillars for a beautiful skin that glows from the inside-out
• How our words and thoughts cast spells
• Becoming more mindful of our thoughts and how they shape our reality

Indigo Clinic indigohealthclinic.com

Indigo Clinic Instagram instagram.com/indigohealthclinic

Facebook facebook.com/IndigoHealthClinic

FREE ROSACEA MASTERCLASS

Get FREE access to a 30-minute masterclass where you’ll explore 9 misconceptions about rosacea and how to create momentum on your healing journey.

JTG #44 Functional Nutrition For Clear Skin With FDN Practitioner Jenn Malecha

JTG #44 A Functional Map To Clear Skin With FDN Practitioner Jenn Malecha

This is part 2 of my conversation with FDN Practitioner (Functional Diagnostics Nutrition) Jenn Malecha. To listen to part one, click here: https://journeytoglow.com/j35

In this episode of the Journey To Glow podcast I talk to FDN practitioner Jenn Malecha about the functional approach to identifying the root cause of a skin imbalance and creating a map to follow, each step leading to clear glowing skin.

About our guest:

Jenn Malecha supports busy, health-mind professionals in taking back control of their health by giving them access to the right lab tests and resources so they can find the missing pieces of their health puzzle, actually fix what is wrong and get back to feeling like themselves again.

Using over a decade of personal training experience, training in Functional Diagnostic Nutrition and Transformational Coaching, she creates personalized health-rebuilding programs for clients that are realistic and sustainable for long-lasting results, and that empowers clients to be the boss of their own health.

If you’re ready to look at the “big picture” of your health (not just one disconnected piece at a time), to embrace healthy as a way of being, and to stop settling for anything less than you deserve when it comes to your health and happiness then Jenn is exactly who you’ve been looking for!

In this episode we cover:

• How to know if your body is actually absorbing nutrients
• Functional tests to give you clues on what’s out of balance in your body
• The impact of stress on the body
• How to shift from stressful states to calm states (parasympathetic mode)
• 3 Functional tests Jenn works with to determine what’s going on in the body and design a path to healing

Tips to absorb nutrients better:

1. Slow down! Resist the temptation of eating on the go
2. Sit to eat and chew your food
3. Eat mindfully
4. Take a minute to rest while you digest instead of running out the door

FREE ROSACEA MASTERCLASS

Get FREE access to a 30-minute masterclass where you’ll explore 9 misconceptions about rosacea and how to create momentum on your healing journey.

KEY TAKEAWAY

“Your body can only heal when it’s in a rest state. Being mindful of our lifestyle is therefore crucial to healing.”

Jenn’s website wholistichealthboss.com

Wholistic Health Boss Instagram

Wholistic Health Boss Facebook

SIBO episode with Dr. Nirala Jacobi journeytoglow.com/39

Nadi Shodhana Pranayama yogajournal.com/videos/why-practice-nadi-shodhana

I Am Fabulous Blends For Emotional Well-Being by Desiree Mangadog LAc., M.S.T.O.M

I Am Fabulous Bundle: Book + Stickers + Roller Bottles

Emotions & Essential Oils A Reference Guide for Emotional Healing 

JTG #39 The Link Between SIBO & Rosacea With The SIBO Doctor Nirala Jacobi

Functional Nutrition & Herbal Medicine For Rosacea

As a Functional Nutrition Practitioner, Skin Herbalist, Certified Advanced Transformative Coach, and someone who’s personally been on a rosacea healing journey, I’m equipped to work with clients in a unique capacity.

My approach – which is personalized and designed to support each of my clients’ bio-individuality – enables me to get to the root cause(s) that brings about skin inflammation.

Once we’ve pinpointed the possible root causes (emotional, physical, or environmental), we work to support the body back into balance, so it can heal itself.

The result? Clear, glowing skin.

JTG #39 The Link Between SIBO & Rosacea With The SIBO Doctor Nirala Jacobi

In this episode of the Journey To Glow podcast we talk to Dr. Nirala Jacobi about the possible causes for SIBO and the connection between SIBO and rosacea.

About our guest

Dr. Jacobi is Australia’s leading expert in the treatment of small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a common cause of IBS. She has 20-year clinical experience as a Naturopathic Doctor and specializes in functional digestive disorders and is the medical director of The Biome Clinic as well as SIBOTest.com. She graduated from Bastyr University in 1998 with a doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine.

In this episode of the podcast Journey To Glow founder Caroline Frenette talks to Dr. Nirala Jacobi about:

• What is SIBO
• The different causes of SIBO
• Symptoms that may point to SIBO: affected motility , hypothyroidism, stealth infections (ex. Lyme)
• Digestive deficits in hydrochloric acid and SIBO
• The impact of medication on the gut Medications
• How food poisoning may trigger SIBO
• The link between SIBO and rosacea
• Is the breath test effective?
• Other tests to consider
• Finding the root cause of SIBO
• Is stress a factor in Sibo?
• Why looking at the gut is crucial when you have skin issues
• The stress skin connection
• Symptoms of leaky gut

If you enjoyed this episode you will love SIBO Made Simple with Phoebe Lapine.

1. Dr. Nirala Jacobi’s educational website thesibodoctor.com

2. The SIBO Doctor podcast thesibodoctor.com/sibo-doctor-podcasts

3. To order a breath test sibotest.com

4. Follow Nirala on Instagram instagram.com/dr.nirala.jacobi

3. Take the survey journeytoglow.com/survey

FREE ROSACEA MASTERCLASS

Get FREE access to a 30-minute masterclass where you’ll explore 9 misconceptions about rosacea and how to create momentum on your healing journey.

JTG #35 Detoxing From Mould With Wholistic Health Boss Jenn Malecha

JTG #35 Detoxing From Mould With Wholistic Health Boss Jenn Malecha

In this episode of the Journey To Glow podcast, we talk to Wholistic Health Boss Jenn Malecha of about detoxing from mould.

Jenn Malecha supports busy, health-mind professionals in taking back control of their health by giving them access to the right lab tests and resources so they can find the missing pieces of their health puzzle, actually fix what is wrong and get back to feeling like themselves again.

Using over a decade of personal training experience, training in Functional Diagnostic Nutrition and Transformational Coaching, she creates personalized health-rebuilding programs for clients that are realistic and sustainable for long-lasting results, and that empower clients to be the boss of their own health.

If you’re ready to look at the “big picture” of your health (not just one disconnected piece at a time), to embrace healthy as a way of being, and to stop settling for anything less than you deserve when it comes to your health and happiness then Jenn is exactly who you’ve been looking for!

In this episode, Wholistic Health Boss Jenn Malecha and Journey To Glow host Caroline Frenette explore:

• Jenn discovering she had skin cancer at 26
• How Functional Nutrition changed Jenn’s life course
• Discovering mould in her office
• The myriads of health issues associated with mould
• How to know if you suffer from mould toxicity
• Signs of mould in your home
• What to do if you find mould in your house
• Natural products to get rid of mould
• The air filter Jenn recommends
• How to detoxify your body from mould
• How to support the body’s natural detoxification process
• Simple but effective things you can do in your everyday life to support your body and liver
• How to implement change from the inside-out
• Essential oils to detoxify from mould and to clean your home safely

1. Jenn’s website wholistichealthboss.com

2. Follow Jenn on Instagram

3. Wholisitc Health Boss on Facebook