Photo source: LaserDermClinic.net

According to a 2007 study in Archives of Dermatology, 0.05 percent oxymetazoline (a blood vessel constrictor) applied to the skin of patients with rosacea improved their symptoms.  Oxymetazoline is currently found in topical decongestants as  Oxymetazoline hydrochloride in Afrin, Nasivion, Vicks Sinex, Visine L.R., and Zicam, and as a nasal spray.  In the March 2008 issue of Allure, University of Miami dermatologist Dr. Leslie Baumann calls the finding of treating rosacea with oxymetazoline a “breakthrough.”   Dr. Stuart D. Shanler, an NYC dermatologist who coauthored the study, further tells Allure, “We hope to have a product formulated specifically for the skin within the next few years.”  The researchers also plan to test oxymetazoline on acne and sunburn.  Exciting indeed!