The use of moisturizers as an integral component of topical therapy for rosacea: clinical results based on the Assessment of Skin Characteristics Study

Skin care regimens have been recommended in conjunction with topical medications for the treatment of rosacea. Specifically, a mild cleanser and a moisturizer can help relieve symptoms and maintain skin barrier integrity. The Assessment of Skin Characteristics Study, a multicenter open-label study (N=102), compared the use of a specified skin care regimen with or without the moisturizer component. Participants used a facial cleanser immediately before application of azelaic acid (AzA) gel 15% twice daily to both sides of the face and then applied the provided moisturizer to the right side of the face only. Scores for severity and duration of stinging, burning, tingling, and itching were recorded in the morning and evening for 7 days. Cumulative symptom scores (CSSs) decreased on the right side of the face with facial moisturizer applied.