Rosacea is a chronic condition that primarily manifests on the face. Although rosacea can develop in many ways and at any age, studies have shown that it usually starts after the age of 30, with the first symptoms being redness of the chin, cheeks, nose, and forehead. Initially, the redness appears and disappears. Once it becomes more intense and persistent, dilated blood vessels may also be observed.
In this article, we explain what rosacea is, its main types and symptoms, what factors can trigger or worsen the condition, and what treatment options are available.
Table of Contents
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects blood vessels and sebaceous glands, especially in the central area of the face, namely the chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead. It is more common in women, people with fair skin, and those with a family history of rosacea. However, symptoms can be more severe in men.
The cause of rosacea is still unknown, which is why there is no 100% effective cure. However, research has allowed doctors to find ways to treat the condition, minimizing its symptoms.
Persistent or recurrent erythema (redness), papules (superficial, red or black lesions), pustules (purulent vesicles), telangiectasias (dilated small or terminal vessels causing red lines on the skin), and inflammatory nodules characterize this skin disease.
Types of rosacea
There are four types of rosacea:
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Papulopustular rosacea (acne rosacea)
Phymatous rosacea (rhinophyma)
Ocular rosacea
Each of these has its own set of symptoms. Some people may develop more than one type of rosacea.
Rosacea: symptoms
The first symptom of rosacea is redness of the chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead. This sign appears and disappears in the early stage of rosacea (also known as couperose). Later, burning and stinging sensations may also appear when using water or skincare products.
As rosacea worsens, small blood vessels dilate, creating the so-called "spider veins." In some cases, pink or red bumps filled with pus appear.
This type of rosacea, also known as rhinophyma, is a rare form associated with thickening of the skin on the nose. It usually affects men.
Symptoms of ocular rosacea
Red and watery eyes
Gritty sensation in the eyes
Burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
Dry eyes and sensitivity to light
Broken blood vessels on the eyelids
Diminished vision
What causes rosacea?
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but there are certain factors that can lead to the development of this dermatological condition:
Genetic factor – The risk of developing rosacea is higher in people with a family history of the disease.
Blood vessel problems – Redness on the skin can be caused by problems with blood vessels on the face. Sun exposure can dilate blood vessels, making them more visible.
Mites – A type of mite, called Demodex folliculorum, which lives on the skin and in hair follicles, can trigger rosacea.
Bacteria – Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium that lives in the intestine, could cause an increase in the amount of gastrin, a digestive hormone that stimulates gastric acid secretion.
Environmental factors – Sun exposure can exacerbate rosacea symptoms.
In short, rosacea is triggered by activities or factors that lead to an increase in blood flow to the face. It is important to remember that rosacea is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.
Aggravating and/or triggering factors for rosacea
Hot drinks and spicy foods
Red wine and other alcoholic beverages
Caffeine
Extreme temperatures, sun, and wind
Strong emotions, stress, and anxiety
Physical exercise
Hot baths
Medications that dilate blood vessels
Certain cosmetic products (especially those containing alcohol or fragrances)
Rosacea: risk categories
Women
People aged between 30 and 50
People with fair skin, blond hair, and blue eyes
People with a family history of rosacea
Smokers
People suffering from severe acne
Rosacea treatment
Generally, diagnosing rosacea is not difficult. For this, at least one primary sign must be present in the central area of the face: erythema, papules, pustules, or telangiectasias. Clinical examination, medical history, and the exclusion of other medical conditions, such as eczema or acne, are essential factors in diagnosing this skin condition.
To date, no cure has been identified for the definitive treatment of rosacea, but there are certain solutions to alleviate the symptoms. Dermatologists can prescribe oral or topical treatment, dermatocosmetic products to control facial redness.
Main forms of rosacea treatment:
Topical creams and gels
Oral antibiotics
Anti-inflammatory medications – usually for ocular rosacea
Laser therapy – destroys dilated blood vessels
Recommended Ivatherm cosmetic products for rosacea-prone skin: Rosederm Cream for sensitive skinwith couperose – reduces redness, irritation, the number and size of visible small veins, improves peripheral microcirculation. Rosederm Cream SPF30 – reparative, soothing action, prevents an increase in intradermal temperature. Rosederm Thermal Water Micellar Anti-redness – gently cleanses, removes makeup, and soothes fragile skin.
Daily application of a thermal water spray with calming and anti-irritant properties
Avoiding high temperatures, as well as areas with high humidity
Covering the face in cold weather
Using skincare products for sensitive skin
Cleaning the eyelids at least once a day
Stress management
Avoiding alcohol consumption
Avoiding foods that can aggravate symptoms
How does rosacea affect quality of life?
Rosacea can affect more than just the skin and eyes. Because it is a long-lasting manifestation, it can have negative effects on the quality of life, by lowering self-esteem. According to studies in recent years, many people suffering from rosacea report problems at work, in marriage, and in interacting with new people.
Problems that may arise:
Feelings of frustration and embarrassment – 41% of patients avoid contact with other people or cancel social engagements
Worry – Patients worry that rosacea will worsen or cause scars
Low self-esteem – almost 70% of people with rosacea believe their confidence and self-esteem have decreased
Problems related to professional activity – 70% of patients say the condition affects their interactions at work
Anxiety and depression – rosacea symptoms can cause anxiety and depression
Thus, although rosacea is not a life-threatening condition, it has negative effects on the quality of life. Early treatment is recommended to control rosacea symptoms.
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.
Rosacea: types, causes, symptoms, treatment
Rosacea is a chronic condition that primarily manifests on the face. Although rosacea can develop in many ways and at any age, studies have shown that it usually starts after the age of 30, with the first symptoms being redness of the chin, cheeks, nose, and forehead. Initially, the redness appears and disappears. Once it becomes more intense and persistent, dilated blood vessels may also be observed.
In this article, we explain what rosacea is, its main types and symptoms, what factors can trigger or worsen the condition, and what treatment options are available.
Table of Contents
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects blood vessels and sebaceous glands, especially in the central area of the face, namely the chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead. It is more common in women, people with fair skin, and those with a family history of rosacea. However, symptoms can be more severe in men.
The cause of rosacea is still unknown, which is why there is no 100% effective cure. However, research has allowed doctors to find ways to treat the condition, minimizing its symptoms.
Persistent or recurrent erythema (redness), papules (superficial, red or black lesions), pustules (purulent vesicles), telangiectasias (dilated small or terminal vessels causing red lines on the skin), and inflammatory nodules characterize this skin disease.
Types of rosacea
There are four types of rosacea:
Each of these has its own set of symptoms. Some people may develop more than one type of rosacea.
Rosacea: symptoms
The first symptom of rosacea is redness of the chin, nose, cheeks, and forehead. This sign appears and disappears in the early stage of rosacea (also known as couperose). Later, burning and stinging sensations may also appear when using water or skincare products.
As rosacea worsens, small blood vessels dilate, creating the so-called "spider veins." In some cases, pink or red bumps filled with pus appear.
Other symptoms of couperose:
Symptoms of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Symptoms of papulopustular rosacea
Symptoms of phymatous rosacea
This type of rosacea, also known as rhinophyma, is a rare form associated with thickening of the skin on the nose. It usually affects men.
Symptoms of ocular rosacea
What causes rosacea?
The cause of rosacea is unknown, but there are certain factors that can lead to the development of this dermatological condition:
In short, rosacea is triggered by activities or factors that lead to an increase in blood flow to the face. It is important to remember that rosacea is not caused by poor hygiene and is not contagious.
Aggravating and/or triggering factors for rosacea
Rosacea: risk categories
Rosacea treatment
Generally, diagnosing rosacea is not difficult. For this, at least one primary sign must be present in the central area of the face: erythema, papules, pustules, or telangiectasias. Clinical examination, medical history, and the exclusion of other medical conditions, such as eczema or acne, are essential factors in diagnosing this skin condition.
To date, no cure has been identified for the definitive treatment of rosacea, but there are certain solutions to alleviate the symptoms. Dermatologists can prescribe oral or topical treatment, dermatocosmetic products to control facial redness.
Main forms of rosacea treatment:
Steps for preventing rosacea
How does rosacea affect quality of life?
Rosacea can affect more than just the skin and eyes. Because it is a long-lasting manifestation, it can have negative effects on the quality of life, by lowering self-esteem. According to studies in recent years, many people suffering from rosacea report problems at work, in marriage, and in interacting with new people.
Problems that may arise:
Thus, although rosacea is not a life-threatening condition, it has negative effects on the quality of life. Early treatment is recommended to control rosacea symptoms.
Echipa Ivatherm
Conținutul IvaStories este creat de echipa Ivatherm, brand romanesc de dermatocosmetice fondat de Dr. Rucsandra Hurezeanu. Produsele Ivatherm sunt formulate cu Apă Termală Herculane și sunt testate dermatologic, recomandate de medici specialiști.