Rosacea is a chronic skin disease characterized by facial erythema or redness. It is not a communicable disease. Rosacea is similar to acne and is sometimes referred as adult acne, developing between the ages of 30 and 50 in most patients. In most cases it affects acne prone areas or oily areas. Although it generally affects the face, it can also affect the eyes and upper body. It is a common disease, but goes undiagnosed in many patients and is most often mistake for sunburn. Rosacea is more common to women and usually flares up during menopause. Those with fair skin are at a higher risk for the condition to develop, but anyone can develop the disease.
Rosacea gives the flushed appearance to the skin when the blood vessels enlarge and allow the blood to flow through at a faster rate. Once they are enlarged they can become visible and cause a look that is similar to when someone overheats and their face becomes splotchy and reddened. Rosacea will persist and can worsen with time. As it progresses it becomes more noticeable. It is a vascular condition that results in redness and papules. In more advanced cases, the skin begins to swell and bumps or cysts can develop around the nose causing it to look swollen. This is a condition called rhinophyma and affects males more often than women.
Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be treated by avoiding triggers. Certain medications, sun exposure, and the consumption of alcohol or hot drinks should be controlled to prevent flare ups. Some food products have also been reported as triggers and include dairy products and spicy foods. Extreme weather conditions such as cold weather and wind can also cause flare ups. Trying to cover up the signs of Rosacea with makeup isn’t recommended, as these products can also cause the symptoms to worsen.