Rosacea (skin)

Main

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the central face, causing persistent redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and sometimes bumps and pimples. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors:

• Genetic factors:

  • Having a family history of rosacea

  • Inheriting certain skin types more prone to inflammation

• Environmental factors:

  • Sun exposure

  • Hot or cold temperatures

  • Spicy foods

  • Alcohol

  • Stress

  • Certain skincare products

For example, a person with fair, sensitive skin and a family history of rosacea may develop symptoms after spending time in the sun and consuming spicy food.

Terms

• Chronic: Persisting for a long time or constantly recurring

• Flushing: A sudden, temporary redness of the skin due to increased blood flow to the surface

• Inflammatory: Related to inflammation, which is the body's response to injury or irritation, causing redness, swelling, heat, and pain

• Rhinophyma: A rare complication of rosacea causing thickening and enlargement of the nose, leading to a bumpy, bulbous appearance

• Telangiectasia: Small, widened blood vessels visible on the skin surface, often appearing as red or purple lines

Analogy

Rosacea is like a sensitive car alarm that goes off easily. Just as certain actions, like touching the car or loud noises, can trigger the alarm, certain factors can trigger rosacea symptoms. For instance, spending too much time in the sun or eating spicy food can cause a person's rosacea to flare up, leading to redness and irritation on their face.

Misconception

Many people confuse rosacea with acne or think it's just a temporary skin issue. However, rosacea is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. Some may believe that rosacea is caused by poor hygiene, but this is not true. Rosacea can affect anyone, regardless of their cleanliness. For example, a person who washes their face twice daily and uses gentle skincare products may still develop rosacea.

History

1. Ancient times: Descriptions of rosacea-like symptoms appear in historical texts

2. 14th century: Dr. Guy de Chauliac describes a condition resembling rhinophyma

3. 19th century: Rosacea is recognized as a distinct skin condition

4. 20th century: Research advances understanding of rosacea and its subtypes

5. 21st century: New treatments and management strategies continue to be developed, including targeted topical medications, oral antibiotics, and light-based therapies

How to use it

1. Identify triggers: Keep a diary to track flare-ups and identify personal triggers, such as sun exposure, stress, or certain foods. For example, if you notice that your rosacea worsens after consuming spicy meals, try avoiding or limiting these foods and see if your symptoms improve.

2. Gentle skincare: Use mild, non-abrasive cleansers and moisturizers suitable for sensitive skin. Look for products containing niacinamide, as its anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce rosacea symptoms. Avoid harsh scrubs or products with irritating ingredients like alcohol or fragrance.

3. Sun protection: Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 daily, even on cloudy days. Limit sun exposure, especially during peak hours between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats, and seek shade when outdoors.

Facts

• Rosacea affects an estimated 415 million people worldwide

• Women are about 2 to 3 times more likely to develop rosacea than men, but this can vary depending on the specific subtype of rosacea

• Rosacea typically affects middle-aged and older adults, but onset can occur at any age

• Rosacea has been linked to an increased risk of depression and anxiety

• In severe cases, rhinophyma can potentially affect breathing through the nose due to the enlargement and distortion of nasal tissues, but airway obstruction is extremely rare