Understanding Rosacea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. It’s characterized by chronic redness, visible blood vessels, and periodic acne-like eruptions. While it is most common among middle-aged women with fair skin, rosacea can affect anyone. There is no cure for this condition, but various treatments can effectively manage and alleviate its symptoms.

Here, we’ll explore rosacea causes and symptoms, as well as how to manage rosacea.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is often confused with other skin conditions, such as acne or eczema, but it’s a distinct disorder with its own triggers and symptoms. It often starts with a tendency to flush or blush far easier than others. Over time, the redness may become more persistent and accompanied by visible blood vessels, bumps, and thickening of the skin.

According to the National Rosacea Society, an estimated 16 million Americans are affected by rosacea. Rosacea has no known cause, but it seems that a combination of genetic and environmental factors leads to its development.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Rosacea is characterized by various symptoms, with the most typical including:

• Chronic redness: Usually concentrated on the central parts of the face, redness may start as intermittent flushing, eventually becoming more persistent.
• Visible blood vessels: Small blood vessels, particularly those on the cheeks and nose, become visible as thin, red lines.
• Pimples and bumps: Many people with rosacea develop small red or pus-filled bumps that mimic the appearance of acne.
• Eye irritation: Also called ocular rosacea, this condition can cause red, dry, and irritated eyes and, in severe cases, vision problems.
• Thickened skin: In advanced cases, particularly in men, the skin may thicken and enlarge, often affecting the nose (a condition called rhinophyma).

It’s important to note that symptoms vary from person to person. You may also find that symptoms come and go, with flare-ups followed by periods of remission.

What Causes Rosacea?

The exact cause of rosacea has yet to be found, but researchers suspect that multiple factors are at fault, including:

• Genetics: A family history of rosacea may make you more prone to the condition, as certain genetic markers may predispose you.
• Immune system dysfunction: An overactive immune system can lead to skin inflammation, which may cause symptoms of rosacea.
• Environmental triggers: Sunlight, hot and cold weather, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress are a few of the environmental factors known to induce rosacea symptoms.
• Microorganisms: The presence of certain mites (Demodex folliculorum) or bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) on the skin may contribute to inflammation and flare-ups.

Triggers That Can Worsen Rosacea

Each person is different, so you may find that specific things trigger rosacea flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding those triggers is a must in managing rosacea effectively. Common triggers include:

• Spicy or hot foods
• Sun exposure
• Alcohol, particularly red wine
• Stress and anxiety
• Extreme temperatures (hot or cold weather)
• Strenuous exercise
• Skincare products with harsh chemicals

If you’re having a hard time pinpointing what is contributing to your flare-ups, talk to a dermatologist. We can help you determine your specific triggers by tracking symptoms and identifying patterns.

Treatment Options for Rosacea

No cure for rosacea exists, so there is no answer to the commonly asked query of, “how to get rid of rosacea.” However, there are treatments that can help. The best treatment plan for your situation varies based on the severity of the condition.

Topical Medications

Topical medications are a popular option for managing inflammation and redness associated with rosacea. Your dermatologist might prescribe:

• Metronidazole, an antibiotic that reduces inflammation
• Azelaic acid, which helps decrease redness and swelling
• Brimonidine or oxymetazoline, which are vasoconstrictors that help reduce persistent redness

Oral Medications

If your rosacea qualifies as moderate to severe, your dermatologist may also prescribe oral medications, including:

• Antibiotics, such as doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline, to reduce inflammation and control flare-ups
• Isotretinoin, a powerful acne medication often used in severe rosacea cases where other treatments fail

Laser and Light-Based Therapies

Laser and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments can be another great option. These are highly effective in reducing redness and visible blood vessels. They target abnormal blood vessels, causing them to shrink and fade over time.

If you’re considering laser therapy for your rosacea, talk to your dermatologist.

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

While medical treatments can help, what you do at home is often equally as important. Even little lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing flare-ups:

• Avoid triggers: Pinpoint and avoid known triggers, such as heat, spicy foods, or alcohol.
• Use gentle skincare products: Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products, as these can soothe the skin. Harsher products may contribute to flare-ups.
• Apply sunscreen daily: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect sensitive skin. Use it every day, even on days that are cloudy or you’re indoors.
• Moisturize regularly: This helps keep the skin barrier intact and reduces irritation, which can help with rosacea flare-ups.
• Manage stress: Stress is a common culprit behind rosacea flare-ups. So, do yourself a favor by stepping back when things get stressful and using techniques like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises to keep things in check.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you think you might have rosacea or are struggling to manage yours, it’s a good idea to contact a dermatologist. The facial redness, irritation, and bumps may get in the way of your confidence and comfort and, if left unchecked, may continue to worsen. That’s where our experienced dermatologists at Clarus Dermatology come in.

Our dermatology team can help you identify your triggers and provide a treatment plan to manage symptoms and improve your skin’s health. We have multiple locations throughout Minnesota, including several in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get personalized rosacea treatment in Minnesota.