Rosacea is a very common chronic skin condition which causes inflammation, irritation, and flushing. Although research indicates that up to 20% of the population has rosacea, it is often misdiagnosed or mistaken for eczema, allergic reactions, or acne, so the real prevalence of rosacea is likely to be significantly higher.
What are the Common Symptoms of Rosacea?
Rosacea generally mostly affects the face and the first signs of the condition may include blushing and redness across the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin, and a stinging or burning sensation when using skincare products or even just water.
Initially the redness and blushing will likely flare up intermittently, however if the condition starts to worsen, the cheeks, nose, chin and/or forehead may be flushed all the time. There are a number of other symptoms associated with rosacea, including the appearance of:
- small broken blood vessels
- small red or pink bumps on the skin that may swell or be filled with pus
- thickened skin on and around the nose
- irritated, dry, or swollen eyes
Redness and blushing associated with the condition can be less noticeable on darker skin tones, so it is important to look out for a variety of other symptoms including:
- persistent breakouts, particularly in clusters
- a warm sensation all or most of the time
- thickened or swollen skin on the forehead, nose, cheeks or chin
- dry skin
- darker or discoloured patches of skin
What Causes Rosacea?
Many people who have rosacea also have a close relative who has the condition, which suggests that there could be a genetic component. However, research also points to several other possible causes or contributing factors, including blood vessel abnormalities.
Although its precise causes remain unclear, there are a selection of common triggers that may worsen symptoms which include hot drinks, aerobic exercise, cheese, spicy foods, alcohol and caffeine. Symptoms can also be worse during periods of stress, embarrassment or anger, or by hot baths and exposure to the wind.
People with rosacea often find it easier to manage their symptoms by following a consistent and gentle skincare routine, avoiding heat and humidity, and wearing a high factor sunscreen every day.
Can Rosacea Be Cured?
There is no cure for rosacea, however, there are a selection of treatments and medical grade skincare can be prescribed to control the symptoms. It is important to seek appropriate treatment for this condition because symptoms tend to worsen over time.
I think I Have Rosacea. What Should I Do?
The skin is a highly complex organ and receiving the correct diagnosis is an essential component of accessing the right treatments.
It is also important to remember that two or more skin conditions can co-exist, which means it may be beneficial to book a personalised skin consultation or a skin scan to determine exactly which treatment options will help you to ease your symptoms and restore a feeling of balance.
The good news is that if you have rosacea, there are a variety of treatment options available and many of them have been proven to deliver excellent outcomes! If you're struggling with rosacea, tap the link below to book an in-depth skin consultation in our Manchester clinic.
We'll use our Observ 520x to analyse your skin (including beneath the surface!) - this will provide us with the information we need to put together a suitable treatment plan, consisting of medical grade skincare and professional treatments.
Contact us to book or learn more:
Book here: https://tr.ee/QECcq5ZBfU
Call us: 07899300849
Email us: ahaesthetics@yahoo.com
Antoinette Hamilton
Aesthetic Nurse Prescriber with 18 years nursing experience, specialising in natural results and Obagi skincare
Manchester
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