Stress can intensify the reactivity of sensitive, redness-prone skin, but its effects can go far beyond what we see in the mirror. According to a study promoted by LETI Pharma, 89% of people with rosacea state that this condition negatively affects their quality of life, and the same percentage claims to feel observed because of it.
When we talk about rosacea and sensitive skin with redness, the conversation usually focuses on what is most evident: facial redness, a sensation of heat, the appearance of visible blood vessels, or skin discomfort. However, for those who live with this condition, there is also a less visible dimension that can affect their daily lives.
Concern about skin appearance, insecurity, or the feeling of being observed can be part of the experience of people with rosacea. According to the LETI Pharma study, 78% claim to have felt embarrassed at some point, and 84% admit to having been worried about their skin. Furthermore, 31% state that they have limited certain activities due to rosacea, especially those that can promote facial redness.
"Sensitive skin with redness goes beyond visible skin symptoms, as it can be very emotionally impactful, potentially causing embarrassment and anxiety and harming patients' quality of life," explained Dr. Paloma Borregón, dermatologist, medical director of Clínica Kalosia, and well-known social media communicator.
Why do redness appear or intensify?
"Sensitive skin with redness is skin that reacts exaggeratedly to stimuli that, in principle, should be well tolerated. Patients often describe sensations of heat, stinging, tightness, itching, or burning, accompanied by redness that appears and disappears," explains Dr. Borregón. The specialist warns that if these episodes repeat continuously, the inflammation can become chronic and, in predisposed individuals, lead to rosacea.
Among the main factors that can trigger a rosacea flare-up are very spicy food, sudden temperature changes, sun and strong wind, emotions and stress, tobacco, drinking hot beverages, very intense physical exercise, and some medications.
The relationship between emotions and skin
The link between emotions and skin has a physiological explanation. Sensitive skin prone to redness shows greater sensitivity of the cutaneous nervous system, so factors such as stress, fatigue, or nerves can intensify its reactivity.
In this context, LETI SR incorporates Neuro Cosmetic Science, an approach based on the interaction between the cutaneous and nervous systems, aimed at reducing neurosensory hyperreactivity and helping to keep the skin calmer.
Identify redness and consult a specialist
Despite its impact, the first signs of redness do not always lead directly to a medical consultation. According to the LETI Pharma study, only one in three people goes to the doctor as a first option when the first symptoms appear: 39% initially turn to the pharmacy and 29% seek information online or among family and friends.
In Spain, it is estimated that rosacea affects approximately 10% of the population, with a higher incidence in women between 30 and 50 years old. "These data show that there is still a long way to go in raising awareness about consulting a dermatologist to obtain an early diagnosis and be able to treat the pathology from its beginnings," explained Dr. Borregón.
LETI SR proposes with its range a routine that combines cleansing, protection, intensive care, and solutions for moments of greater intensity:
- LETI SR ProbioClean H2O Micellar Water: gentle cleansing of face and eyes that respects the skin barrier of sensitive skin.
- LETI SR Anti-redness Fluid: protective care for preferred indoor use, formulated to help reduce reactivity and protect against external factors such as blue light.
- LETI SR Eye Contour: specific care for the periocular area of sensitive skin with redness, with protective and anti-aging action.
- LETI SR Anti-redness Serum: concentrated formula for intensive care that helps visibly reduce redness, strengthen the barrier function, and repair the skin.
- LETI SR Active Anti-redness Mist: rescue care for moments of greater intensity that provides freshness and helps relieve the burning sensation associated with flushing episodes.
- LETI SR Capsules: food supplement to accompany topical care, especially recommended during periods of greater symptom intensity.