Rosacea is a common, chronic skin disorder affecting the central face. It is an episodic and variable condition but classically presents as acne-like bumps (papules and pustules), red or pink patches with broken capillaries.
It can, in turn, lead to red bumps appearing, which can resemble teenage acne. The areas of the face most often impacted are the cheeks, chin and the nose. Rosacea is more common in women and typically presents between the ages of 30 to 50.
The exact underlying cause of rosacea is largely a mystery. This could include genetic, environmental, vascular and inflammatory factors. There also may be a reaction to the demodex mite. This is a microscopic mite that lives on human skin, commonly called ‘eyelash mite.’
Rosacea can be triggered when blood vessels are dilated. This results in an increase in blood blow to the surface of the skin. Some of these triggers may include the following.
During your consultation expect to have your complete medical history taken. You will also need to discuss any other treatments that you’ve used to address your rosacea. Your skin will be examined. Once an understanding of your history and your current inflammation is in hand, a treatment plan will be offered.
There is no specific test to diagnose rosacea. Your current symptoms and medical history will be used to diagnose your condition. Be sure to tell your doctor about any concerns that you experience with your face; redness, itching, burning, bumps and even pimples. The more information that your doctor has, the better the treatment plan.
Men and women who have very fair skin and those who tend to turn red quite easily are considered to be at a higher risk for rosacea. Rosacea tends to be more prevalent amongst women. Men often display more severe symptoms.
Rosacea can become a concern at any age. It is most often seen in patients between the ages of 30 and 50.
The way that rosacea presents can vary between individuals. Some may have just signs, while others may have a more severe case to consider. Rosacea almost always includes one of the following signs, however.
Other possible signs of rosacea may include the following.
There is no cure for rosacea. There are, however, several types of treatments that can help to control the signs of this condition.
Laser treatments, intense pulsed light treatments and other treatments can help to minimise the appearance of blood vessels, reduce the redness and help to clear up the blemishes that resemble acne.
During your consultation you’ll have the opportunity to discuss each of the treatments that might work best to address your rosacea.
As there is no known underlying cause of rosacea, it is difficult to find a way to completely prevent it from coming back after your treatment. However, there are some steps that you can take in order to keep your condition in remission. Avoiding some lifestyle and environmental factors may help you to avoid triggering a flare up.
Some of these triggers may include the following.
Avoiding these triggers may help you to keep your rosacea in remission.
Your rosacea treatment will be completed by a medical professional. It is important to place your trust in medical professionals who have been trained and have the experience needed to treat your rosacea.
Consultations with a dermal clinician are complimentary.
Are you ready to treat your rosacea and restore your self-confidence? Call us or use our online booking form here.
