Rosacea: Causes, Signs; Symptoms & Treatment

Definition and characteristics

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that primarily affects the face. It manifests as persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. The condition can cause discomfort, stinging, and burning sensations, significantly impacting an individual’s quality of life.

Common misconceptions about rosacea

Many people mistakenly believe this condition to be merely a form of acne or a result of poor hygiene. In reality, it’s a distinct condition with unique triggers and symptoms. It can affect anyone, although it is more common in fair-skinned individuals and those with a family history of the condition.

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

This subtype is characterised by persistent facial redness, often accompanied by episodes of flushing and the presence of visible blood vessels. This subtype is the most common and frequently the first to appear in individuals with rosacea. The redness is typically centred on the central areas of the face, such as the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Over time, the redness may become more permanent and less responsive to external triggers, making early diagnosis and management crucial in preventing the condition from worsening.

Papulopustular rosacea

Papulopustular is distinguished by its acne-like breakouts, including red, swollen bumps (papules) and pus-filled pimples (pustules). Unlike acne, these lesions are not associated with blackheads or whiteheads, and they typically occur on a background of persistent redness. This subtype is often more inflammatory and can cause significant discomfort and distress for those affected. This subtype can be mistaken for acne but requires different treatment approaches.

Phymatous rosacea

Phymatous results in thickened, bumpy skin with an irregular surface texture, most commonly on the nose—a condition known as rhinophyma. This subtype can also affect other areas of the face, such as the chin, forehead, cheeks, and ears. The skin changes are due to the overgrowth of sebaceous glands and connective tissue, leading to a bulbous, swollen appearance.

Ocular rosacea

Ocular affects the eyes and the surrounding area, leading to symptoms such as redness, dryness, irritation, a gritty sensation, and swollen or inflamed eyelids. In some cases, it can cause more severe issues like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye’s outer layer). If left untreated, ocular rosacea can result in complications such as corneal damage or vision impairment. Early recognition and treatment are vital to prevent these more serious outcomes.

Genetic factors

Environmental triggers

Lifestyle factors

Common rosacea triggers to avoid

Facial redness and flushing

Visible blood vessels

Bumps and pimples

Skin thickening

Eye irritation in ocular rosacea

When to consult a dermatologist

If you’re dealing with persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, or bumps that just won’t go away with over-the-counter treatments, it’s time to see a dermatologist. They can give you an accurate diagnosis and help you find the right treatment.

Common diagnostic procedures

Dermatologists usually start with a thorough skin examination and a review of your medical history. Sometimes, they might do a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions. It’s all about getting to the root of the problem so you can get the best care possible.

A diagnosis is a necessary first step to treatment, so if you’re unsure of the cause of your flushing and sensitive thickened skin, we advise a visit to a doctor. Rosacea doesn’t have any standard laboratory tests, but your doctor will be able to diagnose you during a simple physical exam. They may want to rule out other causes for your symptoms before giving you a firm diagnosis.

Gentle cleansing: the key to caring for a reactive skin

Using a gentle cleanser helps maintain the skin’s barrier without causing irritation. Especially for sensitive skin, it’s vital to choose a formula that respects the skin’s natural balance. The Vinohydra Moisturizing Cleansing Gel is a delicately foaming daily cleanser designed to gently cleanse and soften the skin. Formulated for dry and sensitive skin, this sulphate- and soap-free gel removes make-up while preserving the skin barrier and preventing dehydration – leaving skin feeling soft, comfortable, and moisturised from the first application.

Hydration: balancing moisture without irritation

The Caudalie VinoHydra collection is designed to soothe and moisturise sensitive skin. The range is made with fresh, soothing, organic grape water and natural hyaluronic acid. The latter is a soothing humectant that keeps your skin young, moisturised, and fresh.

• Moisturizing Cleansing Gel Always start with a gentle cleanser to prepare your skin for treatment. This cleansing gel contains hyaluronic acid to hydrate and soothe your epidermis. Panthenol is also included to strengthen your skin’s protective barrier. 94% of people find their skin feels fresh, clean and free of all impurities (traces of make-up, dust) after using it for the first time*.

• Acid Hyaluronic Serum: it intensely captures water and diffuses it throughout the day. It restores the skin's moisture balance for hydrated, soothed skin that is visibly more supple and soft. It contains organic grape water and natural hyaluronic acid and is suitable for sensitive skin. Results: 93% of women found their skin plumped up** and +44% hydration after 8 hours***.

• Moisturisers: A creams designed for sensitive skin can make a huge difference to your skin. Discover face creams for every skin type: dry, normal and oily.

• Moisturising Mask: Sometimes your skin needs a little extra care, and Caudalie’s VinoHydra Moisturizing Mask is designed to provide it. Within just 10 minutes, your skin will be nourished and soothed.

Sun protection: a critical step for protecting your skin

Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen for face with an SPF of 30 or higher is crucial to protect sensitive skin from UV rays.

A few additions to your lifestyle can have a huge impact on your symptoms:

• Identify and avoid triggers: A thorough diagnosis requires you to identify all your specific triggers, so keep a daily map of your symptoms, diet, stress levels, and food intake.

• Use sun protection: Daily sunscreen will go a long way towards reducing your symptoms. Sunlight makes your immune system malfunction, triggering inflammation.

• Watch your diet and hydration: Spicy foods are often rosacea triggers, so a diet rich in healthy foods can reduce the frequency of flare-ups. Try to avoid red wine, hot drinks, chocolate, and tomatoes. Histamine-rich foods like cheese and processed meats might also cause flare

• Dietary considerations: Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods into your diet can help manage the condition. These foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish, can reduce inflammation and support overall skin health. They work by calming the body’s inflammatory response, which can help minimise flare-ups.

• Stress management techniques: Stress can trigger flare-ups. Incorporate relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine.

• Exercise and skin redness: Exercise is beneficial, but intense workouts can trigger flare-ups. Opt for moderate activities and cool down properly to avoid overheating.-ups.