Feature Interview – Dr. Jason Rivers of Riversol Solutions for National Rosacea Month
by Fatima Syed
With April having been National Rosacea Month, TPF (The Purple Fig) had the opportunity to interview leading dermatologist Dr. Jason Rivers, who founded Riversol Solutions as a cutting-edge product line for both rosacea sufferers and those with sensitive skin types. Here’s a closer look at what Dr. Rivers had to say about advancements in skin care, the effects of rosacea on self-esteem, and the benefits of Riversol:
TPF: First of all, Riversol sounds like an excellent solution for people who have suffered the effects of rosacea. What sets your new natural product line apart from competitors, making Riversol a top pick for rosacea sufferers?
Dr. Rivers: Riversol was formulated to minimize the use of ingredients that would irritate sensitive and rosacea prone skin. The main active ingredient in Riversol for redness is beta-thujaplicin, which is a natural essential oil extracted from the Western Red Cedar. Beta-thujaplicin has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, which are especially effective in appeasing the symptoms of rosacea. Riversol is the first line in North America to use beta-thujaplicin in its formulation.
TPF: What were some challenges that you and your team faced while developing Riversol Solutions products?
Dr. Rivers: The main challenge in developing the product line was being able to integrate beta-thujaplicin into the cream, as its natural tendency was to separate from the mix. After exhaustive testing, we found a successful formula that allowed beta-thujaplicin to blend properly into a smooth, potent and pleasant consistency, and we’re thrilled with the results!
TPF: Are there any skincare tips or a skincare regimen which you would recommend to anyone suffering from rosacea, or to anyone with skin sensitivities in general?
Dr. Rivers: In general, less is more. I would recommend avoiding the use of exfoliants, chemical peels, and toners – anything that will aggravate or dry the skin. Keep it simple: initially just use a cleanser and moisturizer. If tolerated, then other products can be added.
The Riversol for redness skin care regimen works great for most people with rosacea and sensitive skin, which is activated in three simple steps. The Riversol skin care regimen is composed of a cleanser, a serum and a moisturizer. The cleanser purifies skin without stripping it of its essential oils and leaves the skin with a great pH balance. Riversol’s serum helps repair the skin by delivering potent antioxidants and vitamins directly into the skin to naturally exfoliate and brighten. Riversol moisturizer offers skin a deep and lasting hydration at the tissue level, while drying matte to leave skin feeling clean and shielded against moisture loss throughout the day.
TPF: How exactly does the triple threat combination of ingredients (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-thujaplicin) work to help relieve the skin?
Dr. Rivers: The combination of Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and beta-thujaplicin is very powerful and helps relieve skin from symptoms of rosacea and other sensitivities. Vitamin C and E are antioxidants that improve the skin barrier function and reduce inflammation. Beta-thujaplicin has the ability to reduce inflammation, and is antimicrobial too.
TPF: As a dermatologist, do you expect that we’ll be seeing more skincare lines containing beta-thujaplicin out on the market, as drugstore products? Is this an ingredient that is predicted to be a hit in skincare brands in the future?
Dr. Rivers: We may see beta-thujapicin in more skin care products once people recognize how versatile this molecule is. At the moment we are the only skin care line using beta-thujapicin in North America. This is due to the high cost of extraction and the difficulty of stabilizing the molecule, which may limit the entry of more products into the market place in the future.
TPF: What are some of the common complaints you hear from patients, in regards to issues such as reduced self-confidence, which is one of many psychological effects of rosacea?
Dr. Rivers: Patients usually come in with low self-esteem and feelings of embarrassment as a result of their affliction. Some people are so affected that they won’t even venture outside. People may also be concerned that they are not well in terms of rosacea affecting their blood pressure, and beyond.
TPF: Do factors such as pollution, environmental concerns, climate, or diet have an effect on rosacea and similar skin conditions?
Dr. Rivers: There are a number of trigger factors for rosacea. Some of these include: sunlight, heat from saunas and exercise, temperature changes (going from a cold environment into a warm room), and food and drinks (such as tea, coffee, hot drinks, spicy foods, and alcohol).
TPF: As April was National Rosacea Awareness Month, do you personally believe that the level of understanding and support for rosacea has improved over the past several years? What changes/improvements would you like to see, from other experts as well as the community?
Dr. Rivers: The level of understanding is yet unknown, however I would argue that it’s not very high, as many people will suffer with rosacea for years without knowing their diagnosis. This inflammatory skin condition is often misdiagnosed as adult acne and goes mistreated a lot of the time. Increased education and research into rosacea would be welcome, as there is currently no cure for it and there are around 2 million Canadians afflicted by it.
As the month of April was meant to raise awareness for this skin condition, it’s quite clear that people who suffer from rosacea are quietly coping with emotional scars as well. Hopefully, the future brings both positive results and improved skin care!
Full interview can be found online on The Purple Fig.