Have you noticed persistent redness of the skin (erythema), broken blood vessels (telangiectasia), or acne-like bumps on your face? You might be suffering from rosacea.
Patients with rosacea often complain of coarse, scaly dry skin patches, and in severe cases, thickening of the skin and changes in texture, particularly on the nose (rhinophyma). Some patients may get red eyes or sties on the eyelids (ocular rosacea).
What causes rosacea?
While the root cause is unknown, there are a number of triggers that commonly lead to rosacea flare-ups, including:
- Sun exposure and sun damage
- Certain medications
- Certain food and drinks (i.e. red wine, hot drinks, spicy foods, and caffeine)
- Changes in temperature
- Embarrassment
- Products containing perfume
- Harsh or chemical-based products
Protecting yourself with hats and daily sunscreen, and staying away from foods that make you flush such as red wine, hot drinks (e.g. coffee, tea), spicy foods, and caffeine is the first step in managing rosacea.
A number of prescription treatments are also available for managing rosacea. The active ingredients might include azelaic acid, sodium sulfacetamide, or an antibiotic called metronidazole.
- Oral antibiotics
- Birth control pills
- Isotretinoin
- Medicines to help reduce flushing can also be used
- Laser and light therapies
To manage the redness caused by rosacea, green-tinted sunscreens and makeup is a safe, easy way to camouflage it. Cortisone creams can also decrease redness, but are detrimental in the long run and should be avoided.
For personalized rosacea treatment, reach out to your nearest Sanova Dermatology location today.
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