Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that most often occurs in people with a fair complexion, and in those who tend to blush easily, however, it’s actually possible for anyone to be affected by the condition. Usually beginning after the age of 30, rosacea occurs most often in women, although men frequently suffer from more severe symptoms.
Possible Causes of Rosacea
While the exact causes of rosacea aren’t yet known, researchers do have their theories as to its origin. Emotional triggers in those who are prone to blushing or who are fair-skinned may cause signs of rosacea to appear. The condition often progresses to vascular rosacea that causes the tiny blood vessels in the face to swell, and then become closer to the surface of the skin.
Another possible cause of rosacea may be the presence of a certain bacteria, helicobacter pylori, which also contributes to the growth of stomach ulcers. This bacteria, present in the intestinal tract, may trigger a reaction in the body causing the symptoms of rosacea appear.
Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea
Rosacea is a condition that may vary greatly from one person to the next. The primary, or most common symptoms include:
- Facial flushing or redness that comes and goes
- Persistent facial redness resembling a sunburn
- Pimples, red bumps, or pustules similar in appearance to acne, but without the blackheads
- Visible signs of blood vessels
Some other possible signs of rosacea include:
Eye irritation, a condition known as ocular rosacea causing red, swollen, watery eyes
Dry, rough skin
Itchy, tight skin that may also cause a burning or stinging sensation
Excess, thickened tissue, primarily on the nose, which is known as rhinophyma
Facial swelling, also called edema
Signs on other areas of the body include the chest, neck, ears, and scalp
Treatment for Rosacea
There are various methods of treatment for rosacea depending upon its severity and the specific signs and symptoms experienced by the individual, as everyone’s skin is different. Once rosacea has been diagnosed by a doctor or dermatologist, treatment may involve both oral medication, as well as topical treatments, or even surgery.
Oral Medication: Oral antibiotics are most commonly prescribed first for treating rosacea, including tetracycline and erythromycin. Many people must take some type of antibiotic only during times of flare-ups, while others must continue to take it regularly for the best results.
Topical Medication: Topical agents used either to control symptoms, or used as a preventative measure to keep rosacea in remission are often prescribed by dermatologists. Products containing either metronidazole, sulfacetamide, sulfur lotion, and vitamin K are the most commonly used ingredients in topical creams and lotions.
Surgery: For more severe cases of rosacea and rhinophyma, there are varying types of surgical methods used for treatment. To remove and minimize the appearance of blood vessels, laser therapy and electrosurgery have both been effective for many people with the condition.
There are also several things one can do to keep the symptoms of rosacea under control:
Limit stress levels
Avoid sun exposure and hot temperatures
Avoid excessively cold temperatures
Limit alcohol consumption
Avoid hot, spicy foods and hot drinks
Take warm baths or showers as opposed to hot
Avoid overexertion
Only use skincare products or makeup that are labeled noncomedogenic and alcohol-free
Choose products with anti-inflammatory or antibacterial ingredients