Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition with redness and flushing of the face. It commonly develops in individuals between the ages of 30 and 50. Scientists don’t yet fully understand why rosacea happens. Many things are known to cause it, such as ultraviolet light exposure, microbial exposure such as mites, vascular changes that occur with the aging process, and triggers such as spicy foods, wine, or high temperature drinks, such as coffee.
Individuals with lighter skin types and have been exposed to warm, sunny climates, such as Orange County, have a much higher risk of developing rosacea.
There are four main types of Rosacea:
Erythematous - persistent redness, small veins, and flushing of the face
Papulopustular - lesions that look like acne
Phymatous – thickening and enlargement of the nose
Ocular - persistent redness and dryness of the eyes
Since rosacea appears mostly on the face, many people mistakenly think it is just cosmetic. However, it is important to recognize that the disease can have other social and psychological impacts. It may signal an underlying disease that has not been diagnosed yet or impact your quality-of-life. Many medications and office visits with your dermatologist to treat rosacea are covered by insurance plans.
Those Affected
Rosacea happens most frequently to adults in their 30's, 40's, and 50's who develop facial redness and bumps. Anyone can get rosacea, but it typically appears more frequently in females.
Approximately 14 million Americans have rosacea. For many, it comes and goes, particularly when they are exposed to triggers. Triggers are things that cause rosacea to flare by increasing blood flow to the face.
These include:
Sunlight
Hot drinks such as coffee
Alcohol
Temperature extremes
Emotional stress
Spicy food
Exercise
Some prescription medications
Treatment Options
Identifying and minimizing exposure to triggers is the first step towards clearing your skin. Protecting your skin from sun exposure with a broad spectrum sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat is also important. Reviewing skincare products to avoid anything that could irritate your skin is important. Also, using a mild cleanser, followed by a high quality moisturizer on your face is critical.
Cold compresses and gel mask may help those with acute flaring.
Fortunately, there are also many different types of treatments available to help those affected by rosacea. Some of these are covered by insurance plans and some are cosmetic treatments to further clear the skin. Topical and oral antibiotics, such as metronidazole, sulfur and doxycycline can be effective. Vitamins such as zinc have been found to be helpful as well.
Several lasers such as the pulse dye laser have been found to be extremely effective for reducing facial redness and small veins on the face and nose. Surgical treatments are also available to help those who have developed an enlarged nose (Rhinophyma).