There’s a slightly unfortunate image of rosacea as something that affects heavy drinkers and gives them a big red nose. This really isn’t necessarily what rosacea is and it’s a shame there is so much misunderstanding around a condition which affects millions of people around the world in a number of different ways. That’s why we wanted to give people an insight into the truth about rosacea and how it’s treated.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that often makes the skin looked flushed or remain permanently red. Many people have this condition and don’t even know they have it as it appears in many forms which can be confusing to sufferers. Here are a few of the other symptoms you need to look out for:
- Bumpy skin texture which can often look very similar to acne
- Burning or stinging sensation
- Visible blood vessels
- Patches of rough, dry skin
- A swollen bulb shaped nose
- Thickening of the skin
In severe cases, people can even have problems with their vision and their eyes can become swollen.
What Causes Rosacea?
Although Rosacea is a common skin condition, the exact cause of it is unknown. Many experts have suggested it could be down to abnormalities of the blood vessels or possibly a reaction to microscopic mites of the face. Despite not knowing what causes Rosacea, there are many triggers which can make it worse:
- Exposure to sunlight
- Stress
- Strenuous exercise
- Hot or cold weather
- Hot drinks
- Alcohol and caffeine
- Certain foods, spicy food in particular
If you think you may have Rosacea and it is getting persistent, it is important to contact a medical professional first for a diagnosis.
Due to Rosacea being triggered by so many things it is important to look at your lifestyle and certain patterns to see if there is a particular thing that may be making it worse. Then, if you can identify a possible trigger, stop it for a month and see if it makes a difference.
How do you treat Rosacea?
There is no cure for Rosacea but, with the right treatment, it is possible to keep it at bay and reduce flare ups. Every case of rosacea is different and the most important thing is working out what treatment is right for you. Options include:
Products – Calming your skin with a very gentle routine is a must. You need to use products that protect and repair your skin. Products containing anti-oxidants and other ingredients such a plant extracts and stem cells are great as they help with inflammation.
Very light resurfacers – This is a treatment used to mildly exfoliate the skin without being too harsh. Resurfacers containing Vitamin C and lactic acid work well as they help to strengthen and repair the skin’s barrier.
Oral antibiotics – Are helpful to reduce inflammation with a person with moderate rosacea that also has pimples and pustules.
Laser and IPL treatments – Are used to eradicate visible blood vessels, commonly known as spider veins. These treatments may also improve flushing.
Rosacea is so common it’s one of those conditions many people just live with even though they find it annoying or it bothers them to see how it affects their appearance. This really doesn’t need to be the case. We can help you combat rosacea with products, resurfacers or laser treatment depending on your needs.
If you would like to come in for a consultation so you can get advice and discuss treatments for Rosacea, please contact us at Zapp Laser Studio 01273 724815 or send an email to info@zapplaserstudio.co.uk.