April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month by the National Rosacea Society (NRS)—the world’s largest organization dedicated to improving the lives of those suffering from this prevalent disorder. This increasingly common yet under-treated skin ailment can lead to pain and discomfort, affect your relationships, and ruin your self-confidence. Here we’ll take a closer look at rosacea and how best to treat it.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects an estimated 16 million Americans. Unfortunately, the exact cause is not known. However, there are many factors that may play a part in the development of this disease. Doctors and researchers surmise that genetics, the innate immune system, the neurovascular system, vascular changes, an overabundance of a skin mite called Demodex folliculorum, and various types of bacteria may bring about or worsen the skin malady.
Signs and Symptoms
There are several common indicators that can lead to a rosacea diagnosis, but the severity and appearance of symptoms often vary greatly from one patient to the next. While Dr. Greene will take many elements into account, there are two main diagnostic symptoms, according to the NRS. Persistent facial redness resembling a blush or sunburn is the most common singular sign of rosacea. Although less frequent, a thickening of the skin may occur from excess tissue, usually on the nose, which can hinder nasal airflow and lead to facial disfigurement.
Other major signs of rosacea include flushing, small red solid bumps or pus-filled pimples, prominent and visible small blood vessels on the cheeks, nose, and other areas in the center of the face, as well as eye irritation. Burning or stinging sensations, facial swelling, and dryness also often accompany these typical symptoms.
Who Is Most Affected by Rosacea?
Although anyone can develop rosacea regardless of skin type, people with fair skin are considered to be at the highest risk. Women are most frequently diagnosed with the condition, but it tends to be more severe in men. It’s often hereditary and is especially prevalent in people of northern or eastern European descent. Those who are over the age of 30, smokers, and individuals with a history of severe acne are also more likely to have rosacea.
How to Treat Rosacea
Unfortunately, there is no permanent cure for this skin ailment, but the visible signs can be effectively addressed. Dr. Greene has several treatment options available to combat rosacea and, depending on your specific needs, he may recommend chemical peels, laser therapy, light therapy, a HydraFacial®, and/or medical skincare products to alleviate your symptoms.
In addition to a treatment approach with Dr. Greene, identifying what triggers rosacea flare-ups can significantly aid in the relief of your condition. It may be wise to keep a diary of what you are exposing your body to in order to determine what is causing or worsening your symptoms. Current skincare products, foods and beverages, stress and anxiety, the weather or climate, and other medical conditions or medications may be prime contributors. Keeping track of these habits, diet, and environment can help you focus in on and eliminate the things that provoke the symptoms of rosacea to occur.
Treat the Signs of Rosacea at Advanced Dermatology and Laser Institute of Seattle
Dr. Greene is a board certified dermatologist who can treat your rosacea symptoms any time of the year. Let him and his dedicated staff answer any questions or concerns you have about this or any other skin condition you may have. If you’re in the Pacific Northwest and you’re interested in addressing the signs of rosacea, please don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation today.