Rosacea is rosy cheeks gone bad.
It's a common but frequently overlooked condition that is often mistaken for just flushed skin or adult acne. Rosacea will appear as redness on the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin, as small, spider veins, bumps or pimples and even irritated, watery eyes.
Papulopustular rosacea lacks the red flushing commonly associated with rosacea and develops as pimple-like bumps.
Causes of Rosacea
The cause of this skin disorder is unknown and there is no cure but skin care products can offer both relief from and control of the symptoms.
Rosacea is more likely to strike between the ages of 30 and 60, women are more susceptible than men as are fair skinned people and it seems to be hereditary. Outbreaks can be triggered by harsh weather, spicy foods, alcohol, stress and exercise. Certain skin products may cause irritation and a burned skin feeling.
Alternative Topical Therapies
- Chamomile is especially smoothing and calming.
- Chrysanthellum, an herb, appear to strengthen capillaries.
- Digestive enzymes help when symptoms are related to certain foods.
- Green tea shows promise in reducing red bumps and pustules.
- Licorice, not the candy!, reduces redness.
- Vitamin B, especially niacinamide, B3, reduces inflammation.
Caring for Your Rosacea
- Knowing your triggers can greatly reduce flare-ups. Note what you were doing, feeling, eating or drinking prior to your outbreak.
- This is a skin disorders so be gentle with your skin.
- You cannot scrub away rosacea.
- Use quality, non-irritating products for sensitive skin that calm and protect.
- Find a product that works for you and stick with it.
- Use sunscreen daily - summer, spring, fall and winter.
Know that you don't have to live with the discomfort or embarrassment this disruptive skin disorder causes.
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When It's Serious
Without proper care, rosacea can become progressively worse. If your symptoms are severe or you're not sure you have rosacea see you dermatologist. Left untreated, rosacea can result in bumps known as rhinophyma that cause the nose to take on a swollen, waxy look.
Medications such as antibiotics, isotretinoin and tretinoin creams are available. Dermabrasion and laser therapy should only be done by a qualified dermatologist.
Ocular rosacea can cause eyes to burn, water, sting and itch. Eyes may appear bloodshot and vision may be blurred with light sensitivity. Eyelids may have visible blood vessels and redness.
In severe cases the cornea may be affected and there is a potential for loss of visual acuity especially if the cornea becomes infected. See your ophthalmologist immediately if you have any symptoms of ocular rosaceous.