What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin rash that causes redness and swelling primarily on the faces of middle aged women and men. If you have rosacea. you may blush or flush easily. As the disease progresses, a persistent redness, along with pimples and visible blood vessels can develop. Because rosacea causes facial swelling and redness, it can be confused with acne and sunburn.
What causes rosacea?
The true cause of rosacea is not clear. Overactive blood vessels and inflammation create the appearance, the basis of which may be genetic, bacterial, environmental – or a combination of these. It is very important to have a correct diagnosis to begin to minimize development of the disease.
What does rosacea look like?
Most people with rosacea have flushed, mid-face redness and often bumpy pustules. Rosacea affects the eyes in approximately 50% of those who have the disease. While it usually occurs on the face (cheeks, forehead, chin and nose) it may affect your neck, ears, chest and back.
Common characteristics include:
- Blushing or flushed facial skin
- Broken blood vessels cause persistent redness and red lines
- Dry, flaky skin
- Red pimples or pustules
- Enlarged unshapely nose with large pores
- Red, sore eyelids with pimples
Who gets rosacea?
An estimated 14 million Americans have rosacea. Adults between the ages of 30 and 50, who have lighter skin and hair color, and blue eyes, are most likely to suffer. Those with rosacea often feel facial burning, stinging or itching that may be aggravated by sun exposure, spicy food or drink. If you have sensitive skin, oil-based sunscreens and moisturizers may worsen the condition.
How is rosacea treated?
If you think you may have rosacea or another skin condition with similar symptoms, let us know. Early diagnosis and treatment can control the signs and symptoms of rosacea, and even prevent their progression.
We have a number of ways to treat rosacea based on your condition. Keep in mind that new drugs are being introduced to treat rosacea. As new treatments become available, we’ll see if they are appropriate for you.
Oral antibiotics can be effective to treat pimples and bumps, minimize redness, inflammation and eye symptoms
Topical treatment in the form of creams or gels may be combined with antibiotics.
Chemical peeling agents may be used to gain control over rosacea symptoms Medication to reduce flushing and non-steroida anti-inflammatory agents may help heal the affected skin Electrosurgery, intense light and laser therapy may be used to treat the persistent redness and to treat the visible blood vessels
How can I minimize flare-ups?
If you have rosacea and are receiving medical treatment, your lifestyle modifications can minimize flare-ups: Gently moisturize skin but avoid scrubbing or massaging the face. Apply products with care; avoid products with alcohol and added fragrances. Try to maintain constant body temperature. Choose an exercise such as walking that is light but still gives you an aerobic workout.
Avoid excessive sweating by maintaining your body temperature at work or play. Sweating and overheating are top triggers for rosacea.
Avoid high temperatures and humidity as much as possible. In certain climates this can be challenging.
Protect your skin from sun by using a broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher. Consider showers instead of bathing and reduce frequency and water temperature as far as possible. Don’t use harsh soaps, detergents, or product: with known irritants. Common soaps, perfumes, cosmetics, detergents and cleaning products can cause a rosasea outbreak. Gentle soap free cleansers and water based makeup are recommended. Wear clothing made of soft, smooth material such as cotton. Loose fitting clothes will not only be more cool and comfortable, but also prevent irritation from sun exposure. Avoid alcohol, spicy foods and beverages that cause facial flushing. Avoid environmental factors that cause allergies, especially if you have known allergic reactions to foods, dust mites, pets, etc.
For optimal skin health, we suggest you visit us regularly to monitor and treat your rosacea and other skin conditions. Early diagnosis is important in treating skin conditions.