what is it?
rosacea is a skin condition, characterized by facial redness and flushing that gives patients a “ruddy” complexion. generally appearing around the age of thirty, rosacea can appear as flare ups before calming down for a period of time. if left untreated, the flare ups will become more persistent and blood vessels may become visible under the skin (spider veins).
the experience can also be uncomfortable with dry, sensitive skin that burns or stings when touched or comes into contact with water such as when washing your face. many individuals with rosacea also report feelings of low self-esteem — especially during a flare up — frustration and embarrassment.
different subtypes of rosacea may include acne or pus-filled bumps on the face or the development of bumpy, thick skin, especially around the nose.
rosacea may also affect the eye area, where it can cause dry, itchy, or burning eyes. rosacea of the eyes can also appear as cysts or swollen eyelids, and cause vision to become blurry.
what causes it?
it is not known what causes rosacea. however, it is believed to have a genetic correlation. recent research suggests that the redness is caused by inflammation due to an immune response and/or neurovascular dysregulation. other causes may include the increased presence of a facial mite, demodex folliculorum, on the skin, or may be a side effect of a more serious immune response happening throughout the body.
rosacea was previously believed to primarily affect individuals of northern or eastern european descent, especially those with light skin and hair. however, the american academy of dermatology association notes that the condition is often missed or misdiagnosed in people of colour. individuals who experience the physical symptoms of rosacea, including a burning or stinging sensation, as well as the formation of bumps and thickening of the skin on the face, should speak to a dermatologist.
symptoms
some of the signs of rosacea include redness of the face, blushing or flushing easily, spider-like blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the face, red nose (called a bulbous nose), acne-like skin sores that may ooze or crust, burning or stinging feeling in the face and irritated, bloodshot, watery eyes.
while the condition is less common in men, symptoms tend to be more severe.
treatments
there is no known cure for rosacea, however flare-ups and symptoms can be managed with treatments like topical creams, oral antibiotics and laser therapy. another helpful strategy is avoiding the things that trigger the skin condition, such as sun exposure, extreme temperatures, like hot weather, hot baths, cold wind, cold weather, stress, spicy foods, alcohol, and hot beverages.
as rosacea is not acne, over-the counter acne medications will not help calm flare ups.