This April marks Rosacea Awareness Month worldwide, and to shed some light on the issue we’ve got all of your Rosacea questions answered.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea, or acne rosacea, is a non-contagious skin inflammation that exclusively affects the face. The small surface blood vessels (capillaries) of the skin enlarge, giving the appearance of a permanent flush. The forehead, cheeks and chin may develop yellow-headed pimples. Unlike acne, rosacea does not scar.
There are approximately 45 million people worldwide who suffer from the skin disorder.
What is the cause?
Currently, there is no known cause.
What are the symptoms?
The condition first appears between the ages of 30 and 50 years. Frequent flushing or blushing is commonly the first sign. Over time, permanent redness (erythema) may develop as the capillaries enlarge and pustules begin to form. In men, severe rosacea can cause the nose to become reddened and enlarged (rhinophyma).
What are the risk factors for rosacea?
Some of the factors that can trigger a rosacea flush or worsen symptoms are:
- alcohol
- hot drinks
- coffee and tea
- spicy foods
- overexposure to sunlight
- anxiety
- emotional stress
- overheating, especially in bed at night
Is there a cure?
Currently there is no known cure for rosacea.
What can be done to fight it?
While there is no cure for rosacea, there are treatment options available. Depending on the severity sufferers are advised to avoid known triggers like sunlight, alcohol and spicy foods; try antibiotics like doxycycline as well as anti-redness creams and serums; and laser surgery to treat enlarged capillaries.
BD’s redness-fighting picks:
From top left:
SkinCeuticals redness neutralizer
Ella Baché Sensibeautics intense recovery serum for sensitive skin
Natio Pure Mineral redness corrector
Napoleon Perdis Aut Pilot pre-foundation skin primer with chamomile extract
KOSMEA certified organic rose hip oil
MitoQ Crystal Brightening and Correcting serum
Botáni Soothing Facial Mist
Medik8 Redness Corrector
For more information visit Rosacea.org
