Rosacea is often mistaken for acne or just flushed cheeks but in fact it is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the central face.
In Rosacea, the blood vessels near the skin’s surface become easily dilated and inflamed. This leads to the characteristic flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) that define the condition.
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What are the different types of rosacea?
Rosacea can manifest in several different ways, with four primary subtypes existing in humans, these are:
Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR)
This is the most common sub-type of rosacea. ETR is characterized by persistent redness, flushing and visible blood vessels. People who suffer from ETR may also have skin that stings, burns or swells more easily; and while this subtype can come and go, it typically worsens over time without treatment.
Papulopustular Rosacea
This subtype of rosacea is associated most commonly with ‘whitehead’ pustules. These small, red bumps can look remarkably similar to acne, focusing around your cheeks, chin and forehead. General redness is also a characterization of Papulopustular Rosacea.
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Pustular Rosacea
This subtype shares a great similarity with the previously mentioned papulopustular rosacea. Small, red bumps and pustules similar to acne erupt on the central face. Despite skin becoming thickened through Pustular Rosacea skin is often still incredibly sensitive.
Rhinophyma
One of the rarest subtypes of rosacea is Rhinophyma. The typical symptoms of this subtype is a thickened skin on the nose, which causes a bulbous appearance; it should be noted that general facial redness and flushing are also symptoms of Rhinophyma too.
What causes rosacea?
Unfortunately the root cause of rosacea remains somewhat elusive. However, there are several factors that have been researched and are believed to be contributors to rosacea forming in the body.
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The primary connection in the formation of rosacea is the proven notion that it runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition. However, research has also found that abnormal blood vessel function, and demodex mites can also play a role in causing the blood vessels of the face to dilate and inflame.
Is it rare to have rosacea?
Unfortunately rosacea is more common than you might think. It affects an estimated 1 in 10 people worldwide, with a higher prevalence among fair-skinned individuals of Celtic or Northern European descent. In 2018, a study by Rosacea Worldwide estimated that some 415 million people globally have rosacea.
While it can appear at any age, rosacea typically develops between the ages of 30 and 50.
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What are the top 3 triggers for a rosacea flare-up?
Rosacea can be a frustrating condition because it’s highly individualized. What triggers a flare-up in one person might not affect another in the same way. However, the three most common triggers for rosacea flare-ups are:
Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet rays are a major trigger for rosacea flare-ups. It is studied that sun exposure can lead to vascular endothelial growth factors, which increase the development of visible blood vessels.
Spicy Foods
Spicy peppers and chili can cause flushing and inflammation. It is studied that foods that contain a capsaicin, a chili pepper extract in particular, can contribute towards a rosacea flare-up.
Alcohol Consumption
Red wine and certain liquors are frequent offenders when it comes to creating a rosacea flare-up. Alcohol naturally dilates your blood vessels as your body deals with the free radicals in alcohol; but if you suffer from rosacea this dilation is heightened and more visible.
How to tame a rosacea flare-up?
While there is no cure for rosacea, the good news is that it can be effectively managed. Here are some key strategies:
Identify your triggers
Pay close attention to what triggers your flare-ups and avoid those triggers as best as you can. As is often said, prevention is the best cure.
Use sun protection
Always wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and a broad spectrum protection if you are going to be exposed to sun, or anything greater than a medium level of UV rays.
Gentle skincare
Use gentle, natural and chemical free cleansers, moisturizers and soaps. Rosacea is often categorized as ‘sensitive skin’, so utilizing skincare products such as goat milk soap, where there are no added chemicals can help you tame your rosacea.
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Manage stress
Making lifestyle adjustments to enable you to better manage your stress levels are a great way to tame rosacea. Maintaining a healthy diet and integrating relaxation techniques into your daily routine will help you minimize rosacea flare-ups too.
Remember, rosacea doesn’t define you. By understanding the condition, identifying your triggers, and adopting a personalized management plan, you can effectively control flare-ups and keep your skin feeling comfortable and confident.