What is Acne Rosacea?


It is a chronic but treatable condition that primarily affects the central face, and is often characterized by flare-ups and remissions. It typically begins any time after age 30 as a flushing or redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may come and go. Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear. Left untreated, bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases - particularly in men - the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue. In many people the eyes are also affected, feeling irritated and appearing watery or bloodshot.

Rosacea before photo

Before

 Rosacea after photo

After

Although acne rosacea can affect all segments of the population, individuals with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk. The disorder is more frequently diagnosed in women, but tends to be more severe in men. There is also evidence that rosacea may tend to run in families, and may be especially prevalent in people of Northern or Eastern European descent.

No one knows what causes acne rosacea, but there are some interesting theories:

  • 1. Helicobacter Pylori, the bacteria that is responsible for stomach ulcers, is seen on the skin with those persons with acne rosacea rather than P. acnes bacteria, which is responsible for acne breakouts even after facial skin care. Although, acne like pustules may be present with rosacea.

  • 2. In some cases of acne rosacea, there is a proliferation of dermodex mites. They implant themselves into the wall of the hair follicle and make the skin swollen and red.

There are definitely triggers for rosacea which include (in order of relevance):

  • 1. The sun
  • 2. Stress
  • 3. Hot weather
  • 4. Wind
  • 5. Exercise
  • 6. Alcohol
  • 7. Hot baths
  • 8. Cold weather
  • 9. Spicy foods
  • 10. Humidity
  • 11. Indoor heat
  • 12. Irritating facial skin care products
  • 13. Heated beverages

Characteristics:

  • 1. Facial flushing
  • 2. Facial redness
  • 3. Facial papules
  • 4. Facial pustules
  • 5. Face gets red after drinking alcohol or hot drinks
  • 6. Face gets red and/or bumpy after eating spicy foods.
  • 7. Face gets red and/or bumpy with hot or cold temperatures or exercise.

Treating Rosacea

With rosacea, the results that we get are not as reliable as with acne. However, when we do get rosacea sufferers clear (our guess is about 65% of the time) it happens quickly, within two treatments and just a few products and a simple home-care routine.

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