Symptoms
The condition often starts with an excessive tendency to blush and/or hot flashes. Rosacea mainly affects the middle of the face (cheeks, forehead and nose), but can also extend to the chin and neck. The redness can lead to dilated blood vessels and small pimples resembling acne.
In certain cases, rosacea can even affect the eyes; this is called ocular rosacea. It mainly causes either teary or very dry red eyes.
Causes
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. However, it can be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
Other potential causes could be a disorder of blood vessels in the face, a gastrointestinal infection, an immune system disorder of the skin, microorganisms such as mites, or even sun damage.
Contrary to certain myths, cigarettes and alcohol do not cause rosacea, but can certainly make it worse.
Treatments
There is no cure for the condition. However, good medical care and some changes in your skincare routine can significantly reduce the symptoms.
Doctors can prescribe either oral or topical antibiotics to kill bacteria and reduce the inflammation and redness. Other types of topical and oral treatments are also available by prescription to treat more resistant rosacea. In more severe cases, laser surgery can be an option to treat the marks made by burst blood vessels.
People with rosacea must treat their skin very carefully. It is important to clean it with a gentle, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water and to moisturize daily with products specifically recommended by your pharmacist. Using a sunscreen is essential to prevent symptoms from getting worse.
It is also recommended to avoid sun exposure, extreme temperatures, using scented facial soap, eating spicy food, drinking very hot beverages, and stress.
And just in case you were wondering, makeup is allowed! Several products are specifically made for skin prone to redness.
This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice and Accès pharma affiliated pharmacist-owners cannot be held responsible for this information. The information was true and accurate at the time of publication, but it is subject to change.
