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Rosacea pronounced “row-zay-sha” is a type of chronic skin condition that primarily impacts the central face with redness. It can cause flushing, visible blood vessels and sometimes small red pus-filled bumps. Those who have fair skin are at a greater risk of developing rosacea.
Demographics of rosacea: who is affected
Rosacea
affects 14 million people in the U.S. It can impact individuals of any background, but it frequently affects those with fair skin, as well as women and individuals assigned female at birth.
Symptoms typically emerge after reaching the age of 30. While rosacea can occur in children and adolescents, it is exceedingly rare. If someone in your family has the condition, you are more likely to develop rosacea yourself.
Evidence shows that delaying treatment until the condition progresses to an advanced stage may lead to more severe symptoms in men and individuals assigned male at birth
What are the different types and symptoms of rosacea?
Rosacea typically manifests as persistent redness on the central part of the face, such as the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. This redness may come and go, but it often becomes more pronounced over time. You might undergo symptoms intermittently over weeks or months, with periods where they disappear before resurfacing again. The different types of Rosacea include the following:
- Ocular rosacea: affects your eyes leading to sensations of irritation and redness as well as excessive tearing. Those affected can experience light sensitivity and painful bumps on the eyelids.
- Phymatous rosacea (PhR): Causes your skin to swell and thicken, most often affecting your nose.
- Papulopustular rosacea (PPR): Fluid-filled/pus pimples on your skin. Symptoms are similar to acne.
- Erythematotelangiectatic (ETT): Rosacea manifests as persistent facial redness accompanied by enlarged and visible blood vessels (vascular). This variety exhibits flare-ups, characterized by unpredictable periods of symptom exacerbation and remission.
Factors that may trigger rosacea
The exact cause of rosacea remains unknown, but it's believed to stem from a blend of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Certain triggers are known to exacerbate rosacea symptoms. These triggers encompass:
- Hot temperatures
- Spicy foods
- Dairy products
- Alcohol consumption
- Sun
- Exercise
- Gluten
- Emotions such as anger
- Tomato
- Chocolate
- Citrus
- Hot beverages such as coffee and tea
Available therapies
While there is no cure for rosacea, various treatments both conventional and holistic can help manage its symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Conventional treatment options may include:
Topical medications
To manage the flushing associated with mild to moderate rosacea, you might consider using a medicated cream or gel applied directly to the affected skin. Examples include
brimonidine (Mirvaso) and oxymetazoline (Rhofade), which work by narrowing blood vessels to reduce flushing. Results may be noticeable within 12 hours of application, although the effects are temporary. It's important to avoid overuse, as excessive use may worsen flushing. Therefore, it's advisable to reserve these treatments for special occasions rather than using them daily.
It's worth noting that brimonidine and oxymetazoline are often not covered by insurance. Additionally, other prescription topical products are available to address the pimples associated with mild rosacea. Examples include
azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea), metronidazole (Metrogel, Noritate, among others), and ivermectin (Soolantra). Results with azelaic acid and metronidazole may take 2 to 6 weeks to become evident, while improvement with ivermectin may require even longer. However, the effects of ivermectin often last longer compared to metronidazole. In some cases, combining two or more of these products may yield the best results.
Oral medications
In some cases, oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or tetracycline, may be prescribed to control inflammation and reduce the severity of symptoms. If rosacea remains severe despite other treatments, your doctor may recommend isotretinoin (brands include
Amnesteem, Claravis, among others). This potent oral medication, primarily used for acne, can also effectively address rosacea bumps.
However, it's crucial to avoid isotretinoin during pregnancy due to its potential to cause birth defects. If rosacea is more severe and includes bumps and pimples, your doctor might prescribe an oral antibiotic like doxycycline (brands include
Oracea, among others).
Laser therapy
Certain types of laser or light-based treatments can target visible blood vessels and reduce redness associated with rosacea. This may help improve the look of large blood vessels and reduce the long-term redness associated with rosacea. Laser therapy works better than a cream or a pill. Common side effects of this treatment include redness, bruising, and mild swelling for a few days after the treatment. The full effect of laser therapy may not be seen for weeks.
Eye drops
For ocular rosacea, lubricating eye drops or medications to reduce inflammation may be recommended to relieve symptoms and protect the eyes.
Holistic approaches for rosacea relief
In addition to conventional treatments, many individuals with rosacea find relief through holistic approaches that address underlying triggers and promote overall well-being. Some holistic strategies for managing rosacea include:
- Identifying trriggers: Keeping a diary to track flare-ups and identifying triggers such as spicy foods, alcohol, histamine-rich foods (e.g., aged cheese, wine, and processed meats) as cinnamaldehyde-containing foods (e.g., chocolate, tomato, citrus fruits) caffeine, and stress can help individuals avoid or minimize these triggers. Consider working with a registered dietitian to help further identify triggers.
- Gentle skincare: Using mild, non-irritating skincare products and avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive exfoliants can help maintain the skin barrier and reduce inflammation. You may consider looking into using Rosehip Oil or goat cream moisturizer to help combat the inflammation.
- Dietary changes: Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish/fish oil fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding potential triggers like spicy foods and dairy may help reduce rosacea symptoms for some individuals. In addition, more Vitamin A, C, E -focused sources may help with rosacea. Vitamin D supplementation. A Gluten-free diet, Mediterranean diet , and Vegetarian diet may also help.
- Stress management: Practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress levels, which may in turn alleviate rosacea flare-ups.
- Natural remedies: green tea extract, licorice extract, and chamomile, may have anti-inflammatory properties that could benefit rosacea-prone skin. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments. Topical 90% medical-grade kanuka honey and 10% glycerine (Honevo) may help with reducing symptoms.
- Sun protection: The heat can be a trigger for rosacea flare-ups. Wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily and reapply every 2 hours or more often if you will be swimming/sweating. Consider wearing sunglasses, hats, and seeking shade to further help protect yourself from the sun.
- Additional approaches: Regularly massaging your face in a gentle manner could potentially alleviate symptoms associated with rosacea. Begin by using your fingertips to create small circular motions, starting from the center of your face and moving outward towards your ears. Repeat this process for a few minutes each day
Coping with rosacea
Dealing with rosacea can be emotionally challenging. Feelings of embarrassment, anxiety, and self-consciousness about one's appearance are common. Seeking support from a counselor can provide a safe space to explore and address these emotions.
Additionally, joining a rosacea
support group, whether in-person or online, can offer valuable camaraderie and understanding from individuals experiencing similar struggles. Connecting with others who share your experiences can provide comfort and encouragement on your journey towards managing rosacea.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that requires ongoing management, but with the right approach and support, individuals can find relief from its symptoms and improve their quality of life. By understanding the symptoms, exploring conventional treatments, and embracing holistic approaches, those living with rosacea can take proactive steps toward achieving clearer, calmer skin and overall well-being.
If you suspect you have rosacea or are struggling to manage its symptoms, consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment options tailored to your needs. Consulting with a
registered Dietitian can also aid in pinpointing dietary adjustments that might have a beneficial effect on your skin and alleviate symptoms of rosacea.
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