What does rosacea look like and why does it occur?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness in the central areas of the face, along with papular and pustular changes, as well as thickening of connective tissue and sebaceous glands. It is a vascular disorder, meaning it affects blood vessels and circulation. Rosacea most commonly affects people over the age of 30, but it can also appear in the early twenties or later in life, including in the 70s or 80s.
Although it may resemble acne, rosacea is a specific skin condition that requires a different approach to care and treatment.
Rosacea often develops gradually, and many early symptoms go unrecognized. That is why it is important to understand how it presents and what can worsen the condition, so skincare can be adjusted in time and prevent symptom progression.
It begins with redness in the central part of the face, especially the nose and cheeks. At first, the redness is temporary, but over time it becomes persistent, and in some cases spreads from the nose to the cheeks in a butterfly-like pattern. Visible dilated capillaries begin to appear, followed by swelling and thickening of connective tissue and sebaceous glands.
Red bumps (papules) may also appear, sometimes developing into pus-filled lesions (pustules). This form, known as papulopustular rosacea, can resemble acne, but these changes must be differentiated early, as they are not treated with the same products and do not respond to acne treatments.
The nose is often most affected, becoming enlarged and thickened due to tissue and gland changes, resulting in a bulbous appearance. This form of rosacea occurs almost exclusively in men.
In addition to visible symptoms, rosacea is characterized by sensory discomfort such as burning, itching, heat, and occasional or persistent intense flushing triggered by various factors. The skin may be dry or oily, and it is a misconception that rosacea-prone skin is always dry. This type of skin is best described as highly reactive and sensitive.
What are the causes and triggers of rosacea?
Rosacea initially appears occasionally, but becomes more frequent over time. The exact cause is still largely unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain triggers can provoke or worsen symptoms by increasing blood flow to the surface of the skin.
These triggers include hot food and drinks, spicy food, alcohol, exposure to extreme temperatures, sun and UV radiation, stress, intense physical activity, hot baths or saunas, corticosteroids, and certain medications for blood vessels and blood pressure.
Identifying and avoiding these triggers is an important step in managing rosacea symptoms.
Rosacea and eye symptoms
About half of people with rosacea also experience dry eyes, irritation, swelling, and redness of the eyelids. In some cases, eye-related symptoms may appear before rosacea develops on the face.
Rosacea is often accompanied by couperose, characterized by visible dilated capillaries.
What and how to use for rosacea
Although there is unfortunately no cure for rosacea, there are treatments that can help control and reduce its signs and symptoms. These usually involve a combination of certain medications and lifestyle adjustments.
In the long term, it is very important to avoid the previously mentioned factors that contribute to the progression of this condition.
Even though rosacea is not a bacterial disease, antibiotics are often used due to their anti-inflammatory effects. They can be taken orally or applied topically in the form of creams, gels, or lotions to the affected skin, helping to prevent further spread.
Metronidazole, azelaic acid, and ivermectin are also commonly used. These treatments should always be used temporarily and strictly under the supervision of a dermatologist.
Ivermectin, alongside metronidazole, is increasingly used as a conventional therapy because it targets Demodex mites (D. folliculorum and D. brevis), which live within the pilosebaceous units of human skin. They feed on sebum and dead skin cells and can trigger an immune response that contributes to the progression of rosacea symptoms.
Skincare for rosacea-prone skin
Rosacea is a chronic and progressive vascular condition, which unfortunately means that no cream can make it disappear permanently. However, proper skincare and certain cosmetic products with soothing ingredients can help alleviate symptoms and will not further irritate the skin when rosacea is not in an active phase.
Choose gentle cleansers without fragrance and harsh surfactants, as well as neutral products for daily care and hydration that have been dermatologically tested on sensitive skin.
Specific examples of such products include Spectra and Úna, depending on skin type. Spectra is a lightweight serum-emulsion that can be used instead of a cream on combination and oily skin, providing daily support and antioxidant protection. Úna is intended for drier skin types, helping to soothe inflammation while restoring, strengthening, and nourishing the skin.
During the day, the skin should be protected with a gentle SPF, as UV radiation is a major trigger for inflammatory changes in rosacea-prone skin. All of these products can also be used as a daily complement to prescribed dermatological therapy.
Frequently asked questions about rosacea
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most commonly affects the central part of the face. It is characterized by redness, visible capillaries, and occasional inflammatory changes such as papules and pustules. Although it may resemble acne, it is a different condition that requires a specific approach to care and treatment.
How to recognize rosacea?
Rosacea is most commonly recognized by persistent or occasional redness on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Visible capillaries, a burning sensation, and increased skin sensitivity are also common. Some people may experience acne-like changes, but without the presence of blackheads.
Can rosacea go away?
Rosacea is a chronic condition that cannot be completely cured, but it can be successfully managed. With proper skincare, avoidance of triggers, and appropriate therapy, symptoms can be significantly reduced and remission periods prolonged.
What worsens rosacea?
Symptoms can worsen due to various factors such as sun exposure, stress, alcohol, spicy food, and extreme temperatures. Identifying individual triggers is key to reducing flare-ups.
What is the best routine for rosacea?
The best routine is simple and focused on minimizing irritation. It includes gentle cleansing, hydrating and soothing products, and daily sun protection. Harsh ingredients and overuse of active ingredients should be avoided.
In conclusion, if you have rosacea, keep in mind that it can be managed by choosing appropriate gentle skincare and avoiding triggers that worsen your condition. A simple, minimalist routine without strong active ingredients, combined with soothing and anti-inflammatory formulations and daily sun protection, is ideal.