Most individuals who’ve dealt with rosacea understand it’s not just about facial redness. Alongside flushing, it can lead to acne, visible blood vessels on the face, and a burning sensation. Some also experience ocular rosacea, marked by dry, irritated eyes.
Untreated, rosacea may develop into rhinophyma, where the nose swells and the skin takes on a spongy texture. For those over 50, envision the iconic comedian WC Fields for reference.
What is the cause of rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea remains uncertain, although theories suggest genetic predisposition or an immune system imbalance may contribute to this skin condition.
Researchers have long noted an elevated density of the microorganism Demodex on the skin of rosacea patients, though it remains unclear if it’s a cause or consequence of the condition—a bit like the chicken and egg dilemma. Rosacea isn’t linked to poor hygiene, alcoholism, or contagion.
Moreover, though still regarded as anecdotal, there are reports linking rosacea to several gastrointestinal conditions, including IBS, IBD, celiac disease, reflux, and other digestive issues.
Based on my extensive experience as an aesthetician in the industry, I’ve consistently observed a connection between rosacea in clients and underlying chronic gastrointestinal issues. This correlation lends credence to the notion that there’s substance to this observation.
Although the exact cause of rosacea remains elusive, certain triggers are known to provoke flare-ups, including:
- Stress
- Alcohol
- Exercise
- Hot drinks and spicy foods
- Certain hair and skin care products
- Environmental factors, like sun, heat, cold, and wind
- Certain drugs that dilate the small blood vessels, such as some blood pressure medications
Who is at risk for developing rosacea?
Though rosacea can affect anyone, certain factors may elevate the risk of developing the condition, including:
- Family member(s) with rosacea
- History of smoking
- Risk of heart attack or stroke
- Between the ages of 30-50
- Skin that sunburns easily
- Frequently sensitive skin
- Skin that flushes easily, or always looks “rosy-cheeked”
How to minimize rosacea flareups?
- Identify personal triggers and minimize exposure to them whenever possible.
- Shield your skin from the sun by using a mineral-based SPF daily, containing ingredients such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Embrace gentle skincare practices, avoiding harsh soaps and abrasive scrubs. Opt for fragrance and alcohol-free products, and moisturize gently twice daily, considering options with azelaic acid or niacinamide.
- Guard against windburn by applying a petroleum jelly product like Vaseline or Aquaphor before outdoor activities in cold weather, creating a protective barrier without clogging pores.
How do I know if I have rosacea and how can I treat it?
If you suspect rosacea, consulting a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis is crucial. They may prescribe antibiotics or topical medications like metronidazole to manage symptoms. Although there’s no cure, rosacea is manageable with medications and therapies that can slow or stop its progression, effectively maintaining control.
Whether diagnosed with rosacea or experiencing similar symptoms such as visible vessels or frequent flushing, significant and lasting results can be achieved with laser treatments like DermaV. This laser targets hemoglobin in vessels, ablating or reducing their visibility and susceptibility to dilation.
This precision guarantees that only the specific vessel is affected, preserving the surrounding skin and resulting in minimal downtime. Depending on your condition’s severity and desired outcomes, multiple sessions may be necessary, though many patients notice a significant improvement after just one treatment!
Rosacea Before and After
Conclusion
If you’re seeking treatment for rosacea, locate a nearby provider through our Provider Locator.
For providers interested in incorporating DermaV into their practice, please reach out to us via the Contact Us section for further details.
