What is Rosacea?

Rosacea (pronounced “roh-ZAY-sha”) is a common but poorly understood disorder of the facial skin that affects an estimated 14 million Americans.

It is a chronic but treatable condition that primarily affects the central face, and is often characterized by flare-ups and remissions. Although rosacea may develop in many ways and at any age, patient surveys indicate that it typically begins any time after age 30 as a flushing or redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may come and go.

Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear. Left untreated, bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases – particularly in men – the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue. In many people the eyes are also affected, feeling irritated and appearing watery or bloodshot.

Although rosacea can affect all segments of the population, individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk. The disorder is more frequently diagnosed in women, but tends to be more severe in men. There is also evidence that rosacea may tend to run in families, and may be especially prevalent in people of Northern or Eastern European descent.

In recent surveys by the National Rosacea Society, nearly 70 percent of rosacea patients said this condition had lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem, and 41 percent reported it had caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Among those with severe rosacea, nearly 70 percent said the disorder had adversely affected their professional interactions, and nearly 30 percent said they had even missed work because of their condition. The good news is that well over 70 percent reported medical treatment had improved their emotional and social well-being.

While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure, its signs and symptoms can be controlled with medical therapy and lifestyle changes. Individuals who suspect they may have rosacea are urged to see a dermatologist or other qualified physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment — before the disorder becomes increasingly severe and intrusive on daily life.

In addition, visible blood vessels and severe background redness may be effectively treated with laser or intense pulsed light therapy, although several sessions are typically required and later touch-up sessions may be needed as the disorder continues to develop.

The appearance of flushing, redness and visible blood vessels may also be reduced with cosmetics, according to the new management options. Products with a green or yellow tint can counteract visible redness, and cover makeup may be used to conceal visible blood vessels and other signs of rosacea.

The facial discomfort often associated with rosacea may be alleviated through appropriate skin care. Because rosacea patients often have extremely sensitive skin, it is important to select cleansers, moisturizers and other products that do not irritate the skin. Non-soap cleansers may be the best option — they contain less than 10 percent soap, rinse off easily, and have a neutral pH that is closer to the natural pH of the skin. Washing with lukewarm water and blotting the face dry with a thick cotton towel may also minimize irritation.  Before using a product on the face, rosacea patients should first try it on a peripheral area, such as the neck, to ensure that it doesn’t cause a reaction.

Although no drugs have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to reduce flushing, in specific cases extensive flushing may be reduced somewhat through the use of certain medications. For example, physicians may prescribe aspirin or similar agents, antihistamines and other medications to help reduce flushing from substances that cause the blood vessels to dilate — such as alcohol, certain drugs, the vitamin niacin or certain of the body’s own chemicals such as histamine.