Rosacea is a common but not well understood disorder that affects approximately 14 million Americans – many of whom aren’t even aware that they have it. It generally affects people between the ages of 30 and 60 but can be identified as ‘prerosacea’ in individuals in their 20’s. It can occur in people of any skin color, however, it is most frequent and apparent in those with fair skin and affects women (especially during menopause) more often than men. Ethnic groups that show elevated rates of Rosacea include Scandinavian, Scottish, Welsh and Eastern European descent.

This skin condition is characterized by redness, pimples and, in advanced cases, thickening of the skin. The skin on the face – forehead, nose, cheeks and chin – flushes easily and will often stay flushed and may have a burning sensation, especially if cosmetics, lotions, etc are applied. This can be compared to the feeling of wind burn. If left untreated, rosacea can advance in severity and the redness can become persistent. The blood vessels become prominent and appear as small red lines, pink bumps and pustules may also occur. In the most advanced stage, the skin is deep red and inflammation of the eyes is apparent. For men, a condition known as rhinophyma may also develop where the nose becomes enlarged, red and bulbous.

Up to 50% of those with rosacea also suffer from related eye problems that include redness, dryness, itching/burning, tearing and sensitivity to light. Some describe the discomfort as feeling like a piece of sand has gotten into their eyes. Their eyelids may become inflamed and swollen and they may experience problems with their vision.

There are four types of rosacea:

• Erythematotelangiectatic (flushing and persistent redness)
• Papulopustular (redness with bumps or pimples)
• Phymatous (thickening of tissue, especially around the nose)
• Granulomatous (hard papules that may be yellow, brown or red in color)

At this time the cause of rosacea is not known but it is suspected to be hereditary. Researchers believe that it is a disorder resulting from blood vessels that dilate too easily. While a number of factors have been identified as playing roles in a person’s likelihood to have a flare up, there is no set pattern of triggers. What aggravates one person may not have the same effect on another and vice versa. Examples of some of the factors that have been identified are:

• hot and spicy foods/beverages
• alcohol consumption
• wind
• emotional stress
• long term use of topical steroids on the face.

While rosacea cannot be cured it can (and should) be controlled. Management of the condition is key to stemming its advancement so starting out with a cream such as Dermarest® Advanced Rosacea Treatment that is designed to treat rosacea is key. Treatment is designed to fit the individual’s case and more advanced or severe cases may require oral and topical antibiotics which help the inflammation while other medications may be used for the bumps and pimples. If appropriate, laser treatment may be used to treat visible blood vessels.

Caring for the skin is very important to prevent flare ups. Gentle cleansers and non abrasive cloths are best as well as paying close attention to any products that cause irritation. In some cases, using makeup that contains a green tint can help conceal the redness.