Rosacea

Patient Information Sheet: Rosacea

What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, bumps, and sometimes pimples. It typically develops slowly over time and can vary in severity from mild to severe. While rosacea can be frustrating, it is not contagious or life-threatening.

What Causes Rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

• Genetics: A family history of rosacea may increase your risk of developing the condition.
• Abnormalities in the blood vessels of the face
• Environmental triggers: Exposure to sunlight, hot or cold weather, wind, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress can exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
• Demodex mites: These microscopic organisms that live on the skin may play a role in triggering inflammation in some individuals.
• Abnormal immune response: Rosacea may involve an abnormal immune response that leads to inflammation and skin changes.

What are the Symptoms of Rosacea?
The symptoms of rosacea can vary widely from person to person, but common signs and symptoms may include:

• Persistent facial redness, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin
• Visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the face
• Bumps or pimples that resemble acne (papules and pustules)
• Thickening of the skin on the nose (rhinophyma) in some cases
• Eye irritation, including dryness, itching, burning, and sensitivity to light (ocular rosacea)

How is Rosacea Diagnosed?
Rosacea is usually diagnosed based on the characteristic appearance of the skin and the presence of specific symptoms. Your dermatologist may also ask about your medical history, family history, and any factors that may trigger or worsen your symptoms. In some cases, additional tests or examinations may be needed to rule out other skin conditions or disorders.

How is Rosacea Treated?
While there is no cure for rosacea, various treatments can help manage its symptoms and improve the appearance of the skin. Treatment options may include:

• Topical medications: Prescription creams, gels, or lotions containing antibiotics, azelaic acid, or other ingredients can help reduce redness, inflammation, and the appearance of bumps and pimples.
• Oral medications: Antibiotics, such as doxycycline or isotretinoin, may be prescribed for more severe or persistent cases of rosacea.
• Laser therapy: Laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments can target visible blood vessels, reduce redness, and improve skin texture.
• Eye drops: Lubricating eye drops or medications may be recommended to relieve eye irritation associated with ocular rosacea.
• Lifestyle modifications: Avoiding triggers such as sunlight, hot or cold weather, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress can help reduce flare-ups and manage symptoms.

What Can I Do to Manage Rosacea?
In addition to medical treatment, there are several self-care measures that may help manage rosacea and reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups:

• Protect your skin from sunlight by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF ideally physical sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing a wide-brimmed hat.
• Use gentle skincare products that are suitable for sensitive skin and avoid harsh or abrasive cleansers and exfoliants.
• Avoid triggers that worsen your rosacea symptoms, such as spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, and extreme temperatures.
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and mindfulness activities.
• Keep a diary to track your symptoms and identify triggers that may exacerbate your rosacea.