What is acne rosacea?
Acne Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by a red rash across the face, including the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. It typically includes the presence of bumps or pimples, as well as flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels. In more severe cases, it can involve the development of an enlarged nose and the formation of bumps filled with pus. It is more common in individuals of fair skin and is more frequent in women than in men.
What are the signs and symptoms of acne rosacea?
The most common signs and symptoms of acne rosacea are:
– Redness and flushing of the skin, especially on the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin.
– Small red bumps, pus-filled bumps, or acne-like breakouts.
– Visible blood vessels on the skin.
– Swollen, red bumps, often called papules.
– Long-term redness of the skin.
– Burning and stinging sensation.
– Dry, rough, peeling skin.
– Thickening of the skin on and around your nose.
What causes acne rosacea?
There is no one definitive cause of acne rosacea, but it is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Abnormalities in facial blood vessels and sebaceous glands are believed to play a role. Hormonal changes, reactions to certain foods or medications, and inflammatory skin conditions may contribute to the development of the condition.
Who is at risk for developing acne rosacea?
Acne rosacea is usually seen in people between 30-50 years of age, especially those with fair skin, blonde and red hair, and blue eyes. People who are prone to blushing or have a family history of rosacea are also more likely to develop this skin condition.
How is acne rosacea treated?
Acne rosacea is typically treated with topical and oral medications. Topical antibiotics, such as metronidazole or azelaic acid gel, are applied to the skin to reduce redness and swelling. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and bacteria. Other treatments such as lasers and photodynamic therapy may also be used to treat acne rosacea.
Is there any way to prevent acne rosacea?
Yes, there are a few ways to help prevent acne rosacea. These include avoiding extreme temperatures (hot or cold), avoiding hot or spicy foods, avoiding habits that lead to flushing (such as excessive sun, alcohol consumption, and stress), avoiding rubbing and squeezing the skin, and using gentle products on the skin.
Are there any other complications related to acne rosacea?
Yes, other complications can occur with rosacea, including eye irritation and inflammation (ocular rosacea), enlargement of the nose (rhinophyma), and swelling and enlargement of fine blood vessels on the cheeks and nose (telangiectasia). In severe cases, itching and burning sensations, as well as depression and low self-esteem, may also occur.
What lifestyle modifications are necessary to reduce acne rosacea flares?
Lifestyle modifications to reduce acne rosacea flares include avoiding triggers that may worsen the condition such as consuming hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures; eliminating the use of extreme skincare products; and using hypoallergenic, noncomedogenic makeup, lotions, and sunscreens. Additionally, regularly cleansing the skin with gentle cleansers, avoiding long, hot showers and baths, and using a moisturizer can help reduce flares. Stress can also aggravate acne rosacea so taking steps to manage stress, such as through relaxation techniques or counseling may help reduce flare-ups. Finally, protecting the skin from sun exposure can be beneficial.
Is there any way to irrigate the skin without aggravating flares of rosacea?
Yes, there are ways to irrigate the skin without aggravating flares of rosacea. Some of these methods include using mild, soap-free cleansers, avoiding intense scrubbing and exfoliating, using a soft, clean washcloth to gently massage the skin, using lukewarm water instead of hot or cold, and avoiding fragranced products. Additionally, be sure to apply moisturizers after washing to soothe the skin and prevent dryness.
Are there any long-term effects of acne rosacea?
Yes. If left untreated, acne rosacea can cause thickening of the skin on the cheeks and around the nose, giving a person’s face a bumpy, uneven texture. It can also cause eye irritation, and, in some cases, eye infection.