Rosacea: Causes, Signs; Symptoms & Treatment

Rosacea: Causes, Signs; Symptoms & Treatment

Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes facial redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like bumps. While its exact causes are not fully understood, it is thought to involve genetic and environmental factors. Recognising the signs and symptoms is key to managing rosacea effectively. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments available to help those affected.

Summary

What is rosacea?

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.

The four subtypes of rosacea

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.

Causes and triggers of flushing and red skin

Genetic factors

Genetics play a significant role in facial redness and irritation. Individuals with a family history of the condition are more likely to develop it, suggesting a hereditary predisposition.

Environmental triggers

Sunlight, wind, and extreme temperatures can make symptoms worse. To manage the condition, it’s important to protect your skin from these elements. For example, wearing a wide-brimmed hat and using a high-SPF sunscreen can help shield your face from the sun.

Lifestyle factors

Your daily habits, including what you eat and your skincare routine, can influence flare-ups. Spicy foods, alcohol, and hot drinks are common culprits. The idea isn’t to avoid everything at once, but to stop one possible trigger at a time to identify what affects you personally. Try swapping that hot coffee for an iced version or choosing milder dishes to see if it helps.

Common rosacea triggers to avoid

Identifying and steering clear of common triggers like stress, hot baths, and certain foods can help keep the symptoms in check. Keeping a diary of your flare-ups can be useful. And don’t forget, using sunscreen and wearing a wide-brimmed hat or lightweight, long-sleeved clothing are essential steps in managing the condition.

Recognizing the condition: signs and symptoms

Facial redness and flushing

Persistent facial redness, especially on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead, is one of the most visible sign of this skin concern. Flushing episodes may be triggered by various factors, including stress and temperature changes.

Visible blood vessels

This skin disease often causes small blood vessels to become visible on the skin’s surface, particularly on the nose and cheeks.

Bumps and pimples

Red bumps and pus-filled pimples resembling acne can appear, especially in the papulopustular type. Unlike acne, you may observe these bumps do not have blackheads.

Skin thickening

Over time, this skin concern may cause the skin to thicken, leading to an uneven texture and enlargement of facial features, particularly on the nose.

Eye irritation in ocular rosacea

The ocular type symptoms include dry, irritated eyes, swollen eyelids, and a sensation of grit in the eyes. Severe cases can impair vision.

Diagnosing facial redness

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.

How rosacea is diagnosed and when to see a dermatologist?

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.

The ideal skincare routine for redness-prone skin

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.

Lifestyle changes for a healthier skin

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.

In conclusion, dealing with this persistent skin issue isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s about figuring out what sets off your symptoms, using the right skincare products, and making some lifestyle tweaks. Think of it as a journey to better skin health. And remember, chatting with a dermatologist can give you a personalised plan that really works for you. So, take it one step at a time, and you’ll find what helps keep your skin calm and comfortable.

* Clinical study, % of satisfaction, 35 volunteers.

** Clinical study, % satisfaction, 33 volunteers, 28 days.

***Instrumental test. Corneometry. 11 volunteers.

LATEST BEAUTY NEWS