Rosacea

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that primarily affects the face, resulting in redness, swelling, pus-filled bumps, and the appearance of small, dilated blood vessels. Typically seen on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin, the condition can progress, leading to a bulbous nose in some long-term sufferers. Predominantly observed in individuals with fair skin and blue eyes, rosacea often manifests between the ages of 30 and 60. Its symptoms can persist or fluctuate but won't recede without intervention.

What causes rosacea?

The exact etiology of rosacea remains elusive. However, a combination of factors, such as sun exposure, genetics, environment, vascular changes, and inflammation, are believed to contribute. There's also speculation about the role of hair follicle mites, though it's not conclusive. Several triggers can exacerbate rosacea, including:

• Prolonged use of topical or oral steroids like prednisone

• Extended exposure to sunlight

• Consumption of hot or spicy foods

• Alcohol consumption

• Exposure to extreme temperatures

• Emotional stress

• Intense physical activity

• Some medications

What are the symptoms of rosacea?

Rosacea presents as reddened areas on the face, often accompanied by pus-filled bumps. Unlike acne, it doesn't feature blackheads, whiteheads, or deep nodules. Common symptoms encompass:

• Regular blushing or flushing

• Visible redness and noticeable blood vessels

• Red, raised spots on facial areas such as the nose, forehead, cheeks, and chin

• Dry, flaky skin on the face

• Sensitivity to products, accompanied by burning or stinging sensations

• Eye irritation, manifesting as red or swollen eyelids, bump formation, or styes

• A swollen, bulbous nose with pronounced pores

• Persistent facial swelling

How do I treat rosacea?

Treatment is tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and the subtype of rosacea they have. Sun protection and sunscreen application are essential to mitigate symptom exacerbation. It's also advisable to reduce exposure to known triggers. While makeup can camouflage the redness, it's pivotal to avoid topical steroids as they can exacerbate the condition. Treatment modalities include:

• Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline

• Topical metronidazole cream or gel

• Azelaic acid formulations

• Gels containing brimonidine or oxymetazoline hydrochloride for redness reduction

• Ivermectin cream

• Oral isotretinoin for severe cases

• Laser therapy for vascular symptoms

How do I prevent rosacea?

While rosacea's onset can't be entirely prevented, flare-ups can be minimized:

• Limit direct sun exposure and ensure sunburn prevention

• Avoid trigger foods like hot, spicy dishes or alcoholic drinks

• Shield the skin from extreme temperatures

• Manage and mitigate stress factors