Rosacea is a facial skin condition causing redness and acne-like effects. According to the National Rosacea Society (NRS), more than 16 million Americans are impacted by rosacea. Because of the impact on facial appearance, people with rosacea can experience psychological, social and occupational problems if not treated.

Rosacea is not just a physical condition. According to a survey by NRS, “more than 90% of rosacea patients said their condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41% reported that it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Among rosacea patients with severe symptoms, 88% said the disorder had adversely affected their professional interactions, and 51% said they had even missed work because of their condition.”

How do you get rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is not known, and it is not contagious. While anyone can have rosacea, those who are diagnosed more frequently include:

• People with lighter, “flush” skin who tend to blush easily
• Women, but men also get rosacea and have more severe symptoms
• Individuals with family members who have rosacea
• People of northern or eastern European descent

While it can start at any age, symptoms typically begin at age 30 or older.

Symptoms of rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic condition, so patients can experience flare-ups and remissions. Seeking medical treatment at the first signs of symptoms is recommended to avoid severe rosacea and emotional effects and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Facial symptoms include:

• Bumps or pimples
• Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
  • In darker skin tones, the redness may appear brown or purple.
• Small visible blood vessels
• Watery or irritated eyes

If left untreated, symptoms can become more severe and flare-ups more frequent resulting in:

• Inflammatory bumps and pimples
• The nose growing swollen and bumpy from excess tissue (particularly in men)
• More visible blood vessels
• Bloodshot-looking eyes

Treating rosacea

At the first signs of rosacea, a dermatologist should be consulted. Your dermatologist will develop a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle and other factors. Treatment can include oral or topical medications to bring the symptoms under control and reduce future flare-ups. The goal of treatment is maintaining remission.

For more information and support: rosacea.org
To find a dermatologist near you: dmgaz.org/dermatology