Understanding Rosacea

Rosacea, sometimes called acne rosacea, is a common skin condition that causes redness or flushing of the face. The condition can appear as pronounced red patches or small, red pimple-like bumps.

“Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disorder that primarily affects skin on the face, though it can also cause dry, red eyes, too,” says Daniel P. Hekman, MD, a physician with Franciscan Physician Network Franklin Township Family Medicine.

The American Academy of Dermatology estimates that more than 14 million Americans live with rosacea. Most begin noticing symptoms between the ages of 30 and 50. The condition most commonly affects women, fair-skinned individuals, and those with a history of severe acne.

What Causes Rosacea?

The precise cause of rosacea is not known. Because rosacea primarily affects older individuals, particularly fair-skinned ones, some research centers on the theory that micro scarring from long-term sun damage is a potential cause of rosacea.

“Chronic sun damage and micro scarring over time changes the architecture of your skin and the skin glands as they heal,” Dr. Hekman says. “As a result, it’s believed bacteria in secretions can sometimes get stuck in the skin and create the bumps and abnormal blood vessels that are hallmarks of rosacea.”

Studies are ongoing to identify other potential causes of rosacea, including:

• An immune response to a skin mite, demodex, that often lives on the face
• An overactive immune system response to certain bacterial triggers
• Genetic linkage

What Causes Rosacea Flare-Ups?

Patients with rosacea often find that their symptoms flare-up and then recede. Certain foods and environmental causes can trigger outbreaks. As a result, we recommend that people with rosacea avoid:

• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Pet dander and other allergens
• Smoking
• Spicy foods
• Sunlight

Try to moisturize your face frequently and use sunscreen or wear a wide-brimmed hat whenever you’re outdoors. Also, it may be beneficial to wash your face at least twice a day with a mild, hypoallergenic cleanser to further prevent flare-ups.

What Are The Treatments For Rosacea?

Treatments for rosacea depend on the type of blemishes you’re experiencing.

For rosacea primarily defined by red pustules or pimples:

For rosacea primarily defined by red pustules or pimples, physicians typically prescribe a topical antibiotic such as metronidazole.

“This not only kills bacteria that cause the bumps, but it also stops inflammation that causes the skin redness and irritation,” says Dr. Hekman.

For rosacea with flushing:

For rosacea with flushing, doctors can prescribe medications like brimonidine, which shrink blood vessels to reduce redness and inflammation.

If first-line medications are not effective in reducing rosacea symptoms, your physician might also prescribe an oral antibiotic such as doxycycline, which can kill bacteria and help alleviate skin redness. 

When To Seek Help For Rosacea Symptoms

If you think you might have rosacea, talk with your doctor. Seeking treatment now can help prevent long-term scarring or permanent redness on your face. 

Talk with your doctor if you notice the development of persistent red blemishes on your cheeks, chin or nose. Your physician can help you identify potential triggers and make a plan to get your flare-ups under control. With medical care, rosacea can be managed. But if left untreated, rosacea symptoms can worsen to the point that they become permanent.