Acne Rosacea

Acne rosacea is a very common disorder that affects over 14 million Americans. The most surprising thing about rosacea is that most people who have it don’t know it! Rosacea looks very similar to acne, with development of skin redness and bumps or pimples on the face. The cause of acne rosacea is unknown- people theorize that it may be caused by a disorder of the blood vessels, a stomach infection or a skin fungus. However, none of these theories have been proven. Rosacea will usually appear around the age 30 and is characterized by flare-ups and remissions.

Symptoms and Signs of Rosacea:

- Frequent blushing- this is usually the first sign of rosacea
- Persistent redness of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead
- Bumps and pimples without blackheads or whiteheads
- Small visible blood vessels on face
- Irritated eyes
- Burning, stinging or a feeling of tightness on the face
- Rough and dry skin appearance
- Skin thickening
- Facial swelling
- Neck, chest, back and arms may also be effected

Acne Rosacea Treatment:

Like acne, there is no cure for acne rosacea. However, there are treatments that your doctor can prescribe to decrease flare-ups.

Topical and Oral Antibiotics:
This is the most common medications prescribed to those with acne rosacea. Most likely due to its anti-inflammatory rather then its anti-bacterial properties, antibiotics work well for many patients with rosacea.

Laser Therapy:
Laser therapy is used to reduce facial redness and to diminish the appearance of small blood vessels. They can also be used to stop the production of excess skin, which is another symptom of rosacea in some individuals. The lasers used include the vascular laser and the CO2 laser (used in more severe cases).

Avoid factors that contribute to flare-ups:
Many patients will find that certain factors tend to trigger a rosacea flare-up. Here is a list of the most common triggers.

Sun Exposure
Emotional Stress
Hot Weather
Wind
Exercise
Alcohol
Hot bathes
Cold Weather
Spicy Foods
Humidity
Heated beverages
Skin-care products