Rosacea is a common, chronic condition that usually starts with redness and blood vessels that spread across your cheeks and nose.
The redness can slowly spread beyond the nose and cheeks to the forehead and chin. Even the ears.
Rosacea can turn into persistent redness with pimples and even cystic bumps. Some of the most advanced cases can result in the oil glands of your skin becoming quite large, making your nose larger and your cheeks swollen. Some people have symptoms in their eyes, which can include dryness and a gritty like feeling.
Who Gets Rosacea and Why
Anyone can develop rosacea, but it’s most common among fair-skinned adult women between the ages of 30 and 50. Some children can get it as well. No one knows the cause of rosacea, but hereditary and environment play a big part. Rosacea can appear and flare for weeks or months, then it can go away and come back. There is no known cure, so treatment focuses mainly on preventing flares.
How Is Rosacea Treated?
It’s very important to see a Dermatologist as soon as symptoms present themselves. Some people mistake it for acne, so it's important to see someone that specializes in rosacea to get it under control.
Rosacea treatments are customized to each individual to stop the disease from progressing, while avoiding triggers, and might include prescription medications.
Tips for Reducing Flares
- Sun and heat can trigger a rosacea flare-up. Make it a practice to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply every two hours or more often if going into the water.
- Avoid spicy foods and hot drinks like caffeine. Alcohol also can trigger it.
- Avoid extreme temperatures. Exercise in cool areas, don’t get overheated and protect your face from harsh wind and cold.
- Avoid harsh cleansers and moisturizers. Don’t rub or use irritating washcloths.
- Avoid cosmetics containing alcohol or irritating ingredients.
- Consider laser therapy as a way to treat persistent redness and visible blood vessels.
- Keep a log to see what your triggers are for Rosacea and discuss with your dermatologist on how to control it.
The Mayo Clinic has more info here. The pros at Bay Dermatology are ready to get to work right away and bring your skin back to its original beauty.