Natural remedies for couperose and rosacea

Couperose is a visible condition caused by abnormal and persistent dilation of the small blood vessels in the face, known as telangiectasias. It manifests as fine red or purplish vessels, particularly visible on the cheeks, the sides of the nose, and sometimes the chin or forehead. This condition most commonly occurs in people with fair skin, generally aged between 40 and 50, and mainly affects women.

Rosacea is often part of a broader condition of reactive skin or skin prone to redness, such as rosacea. It may follow transient redness (flushing), sensations of heat, tingling or discomfort. Over time, this redness becomes persistent, and the dilated blood vessels become more clearly visible. Couperose is therefore a visible sign of vascular fragility, which requires appropriate care to strengthen the skin barrier and maintain the skin’s comfort on a daily basis.

Couperose is a specific form of rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic dermatosis, i.e. a persistent skin condition, mainly affecting the face. It encompasses several clinical presentations. Couperose corresponds to the so-called erythematotelangiectatic form. It involves erythema – a medical term for redness caused by the dilation of blood vessels – and telangiectasias, which are small dilated blood vessels that have become visible on the skin’s surface. Not all forms of rosacea therefore present as couperose. Some forms mainly involve inflammatory lesions, such as papules or pustules, which require a different course of treatment.

Rosacea (overall)

Here are the main triggers: 

Vascular factors

Couperose is caused by fragile skin capillaries. These blood vessels dilate excessively and repeatedly. Over time, their ability to return to a normal calibre diminishes, which contributes to the development of permanent redness.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors play a recognised role. Cold, heat, wind or repeated sun exposure stimulate vasodilation and make redness more noticeable.

Dietary factors

Certain foods or drinks can cause transient flushing. Alcohol, very spicy dishes or very hot drinks are frequently implicated in the exacerbation of redness.

Hormonal and physiological factors

Hormonal fluctuations influence vascular reactivity. Stress also acts via neurovascular mechanisms, promoting flushing and the persistence of redness.

Skin-related factors

Thin, fair and reactive skin is more sensitive. Repeated use of irritating cosmetics or those that are too harsh weakens the skin barrier and increases vascular susceptibility.

Here is a selection of natural solutions to reduce redness: 

• Opt for a serum : the Vitamin B12 & Prebiotics Concentrated Serum is formulated for sensitive and reactive skin. Its formula combines vitamin B12, prebiotics, ceramides and barley polypeptides to soothe feelings of discomfort such as redness, tightness, tingling and itching, and reduce the appearance of visible redness in just a few minutes. By nourishing and moisturising the skin, this serum also helps to strengthen the skin barrier, supporting the skin’s resistance to daily aggressors. Apply twice daily, in the morning and in the evening. Store at room temperature away from heat, ensuring the bottle is tightly closed after use. Avoid contact with the eyes. In case of contact, rinse immediately with clean water.

• Make your own skincare product: the Active ingredient Niacinamide is a 100% pure cosmetic ingredient, consisting of niacinamide, the water-soluble form of vitamin B3, used in cosmetics for its many skin-benefiting properties. This molecule helps to reduce visible redness by exerting an anti-inflammatory effect on the epidermis, whilst improving the overall appearance of the complexion and helping to even out skin tone. When incorporated into homemade skincare products, it also helps to improve skin microcirculation, regulate sebum production and visually refine pores, contributing to a more even complexion with less redness. Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light, and away from any source of heat.

• A little comfort with a hydrosol: the Organic Italian Helichrysum Hydrosol from Corsica is a 100% pure and natural floral hydrosol, obtained by steam distillation of Helichrysum italicum, a Mediterranean plant also known as ‘immortelle’. It is prized for its toning and soothing properties, which help to reduce visible redness on sensitive areas of the face, whilst providing a feeling of comfort to the skin. This hydrosol is suitable for use on delicate skin and can be incorporated into homemade formulations.  

Medical management depends on the specific type of lesions observed.

Step 1: Clinical assessment

A healthcare professional confirms the diagnosis and identifies any associated rosacea.

Step 2: Topical treatments with temporary effects

Certain vasoconstrictor gels, such as brimonidine, temporarily reduce redness by acting on dilated blood vessels. Their effect is short-lived.

Stage 3: Vascular lasers and targeted physical techniques

Vascular lasers enable the selective treatment of the blood vessels responsible for couperose. They are performed on untanned skin and are considered a cosmetic procedure.

Step 4: management of associated conditions

Where inflammatory lesions are present, specific treatments for papulopustular rosacea may be recommended. These do not treat telangiectasia on its own.

Couperose, with its redness and dilated vessels, can be a source of discomfort and embarrassment for many people. To naturally reduce couperose or rosacea on the face, several approaches are recommended. Firstly, regular use of soothing, anti-inflammatory ingredients such as plant oils, hydrosols and essential oils can help reduce redness and strengthen blood vessel walls. In addition, proper skin hydration, daily sun protection and a balanced diet can also help improve skin condition and reduce the symptoms of rosacea.

Discover our selection of Aroma Zone anti-redness products.

Even when they are of natural origin, skincare products are not without effects. It is important to take a gradual approach, always testing products on a small area (such as the crook of the elbow) before using them more widely, particularly on sensitive or reactive skin. Certain formulations, particularly those containing concentrated active ingredients, are not suitable for everyone: pregnant or breastfeeding women, young children, or people with specific medical conditions should exercise caution. Furthermore, natural products are often formulated without preservatives. Good hygiene when using the products (clean hands, sanitised utensils) and appropriate storage conditions (away from heat and light, and sometimes in the fridge) are essential to preserve their effectiveness and avoid any risk of contamination. If in doubt or if symptoms persist, it is essential to seek advice from a healthcare professional to tailor your skincare routine to your specific needs.

In cases of chronic overwork, the nervous system is exhausted, and a paradox arises: the more tired you are, the less easily you fall asleep, and the more frequent and persistment your insomnia is. To regain quality sleep cycles, it is essential to recharge the entire nervous system with essential oils whose molecules are both sedative and revitalising. This therapeutic effect is commonly referred to as the neurotonic property, which is very valuable in this context of high stress and general exhaustion.

Aude Maillard, a practitioner and graduate in scientific aromatherapy, foot reflexology, and olfactotherapy, takes a comprehensive approach to essential oils, combining scientific and energetic perspectives. She is passionate about essential oils and eager to share her knowledge. Aude Maillard now leads aromatherapy workshops at Aroma-Zone and is also available for personalised consultations.