There is a vitamin made for people with rosacea called
Nicomide. It can clear some people up without the use
of metronidazole topical products.

http://www.drugs.com/pdr/nicotinamide.html

This product is RX only--you can ask for it and try it since you
have had longstanding issues.

The ingredients are available separately without RX.

The zinc and folic acid are the most important IMO.

People with chronic skin problems also benefit from this
product:
http://www.evitamins.com/product.asp?pid=683

Many hard to treat rashes are connected to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Poor intake of omega-3 impact the skin
since these essential nutrients make up the skin.
Flax oil is the best for hair/skin maintenance. You might try
using 2 flax oils a day as well..take with food.

Putting castor oil on the skin, provides some fatty acids, but
I like evening primrose better. The GLA in it is better. Many cosmetics today have GLA added to improve skin integrity.
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/g...nic-000305.htm
Evening primrose 500mg a day orally, with 2 flax may really help heal your skin. You can also open the Evening Primrose and rub it into clean skin to accelerate the process.

I'd be careful what you wash with. I'd use a very hypoallergenic soap. Dove unscented is good and mild, and does not dry too much.