Rosacea skin is a chronic skin condition that usually affects the central one-third part of the face. It causes redness and soreness on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Whereas acne is caused by blocked follicles and excessive oil secretion. Thus, treatment for acne is different from that of rosacea. Rosacea causes small pimples and a rash with bumpy spots to appear on your skin. Over time, if left untreated Rosacea can affect the eyes to make them look bloodshot and the rash may spread to the neck, back, and chest.

Most commonly diagnosed among people above the age of 30, Rosacea is more common among women. However, it is observed to be more severe in men. In some cases, Rosacea is also hereditary.

There are four types of rosacea:

1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR)

   This is a kind of Rosacea associated with inflammation of the skin, facial redness, soreness, and visible blood vessels.

2. Papulopustular Rosacea

   This subtype of Rosacea is defined by the small pimples o like pustules or acne-like breakout it causes on the skin.

3. Rhinophyma

   This is the rarest subtype of Rosacea and it causes a thickening of the skin on the nose.

4. Ocular Rosacea

   Ocular Rosacea is concentrated around the eyes.

What causes Rosacea is yet to be determined. There is no known cause or cure for Rosacea skin as of now. Some researchers suggest that it could be caused by a malfunction of blood vessels or a fungal infection. However, it is not determined. Some contributing factors are.

1. Abnormality in facial blood vessels

   An irregularity in the functioning of your facial blood vessels may cause flushing, persistent facial redness, and visible blood vessels. Although it is not determined why the blood vessels get inflamed.

2. Lighter skin colour

   People with lighter skin tone, especially those with northern European ancestry are prone to Rosacea.

3. Microscopic Mite

   We all have microscopic mites such as Demodex folliculorum that live on the human skin. However, the presence of this mite is higher on the skin of patients diagnosed with Rosacea.

4. Heredity

   Rosacea runs in the family and can be inherited from your blood relatives.

Even though the cause for the beginning of Rosacea is unknown, some triggers that cause the condition to flare up have been identified. These include:

• Stress
• Exposure to sunlight
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Spicy food
• Dairy Products

The following signs and symptoms of Rosacea have been identified:

Even though there is no cure for Rosacea, there are a lot of long-term treatments that can control the symptoms of the Rosacea skin condition. Our online pharmacy, MedsNow offers all the best treatments for Rosacea, including the latest medications and Rosacea treatments in the UK, you can now conveniently order them online:

1. Topical Medications

Topical medications include lotions, Rosacea creams, or ointments that patients need to apply on their skin twice a day or more, depending on the prescription by the doctor. Metrogyl is a common topical medicine prescribed by doctors to treat Rosacea. Some other examples of topical medicines include - Efracea, Finacea Gel, Dermalex Rosacea Treatment, Mirvaso Gel, Soolantra Rosacea Cream, and Rozex Gel. Check out the wide range of topical medications for Rosacea available on Meds Now.

2. Oral Antibiotics

Sometimes doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics comprising of doxycycline and minocycline to treat Rosacea. One such commonly prescribed oral antibiotic is Tetracycline. It helps to:

• Reduce facial redness, soreness, pustules, and eye-related symptoms

• The course would be 6-12 weeks, depending on the severity of the infection

• If there is another outbreak, the course may need to be repeated

3. Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Oral isotretinoin or Accutane works to stop Rosacea by reducing the size and number of enlarged oil glands. This treatment is known to have a lot of side effects.

4. Laser Treatment & Intense Pulsed Light

Laser treatment helps Rosacea patients get rid of the visible blood vessels, redness, and to improve the texture and complexion of the skin. The most effective laser treatment for Rosacea has been “the pulsed dye laser (PDL)” also known as the intense pulsed light therapy. Sun avoidance is necessary during the six to eight weeks of laser treatment for Rosacea.

5. Photodynamic Therapy

Photodynamic Therapy or PDT is a treatment that uses topical photosensitizer liquid which is applied to the affected area of the skin and a light is shone on the skin to activate the treatment. This is a treatment that has been used to treat pre-cancers and acne. However, it has been successful for many patients of Rosacea as well. It reduces inflammation and facial redness. The treatment usually lasts one to two hours. After the treatment, strict sun avoidance for up to 3 days is recommended.

6. Glycolic Peels

A lot of people suffering from Rosacea have benefitted from glycolic peels. A professional apply the peel to your face for two to three minutes every few weeks to keep the Rosacea at bay. However, some patients have experienced itching, burning sensations, and mild stinging during the glycolic peel treatment. Therefore, one must opt for this treatment with caution in Rosacea.

7. Plastic Surgery

In the case of Rhinophyma – a type of Rosacea wherein the skin around the nose begins to thicken. Plastic surgery is a good option for treatment. This is also known as the Rosacea nose. Using laser or scalpel surgery, extra skin growth can be removed. Plastic surgery removes the excess tissue and brings the shape of your facial features back to normal.

Some of the complications that can arise due to Rosacea include:

1. Ocular Rosacea

If Rosacea affects the eyes, your eyelids may become inflamed and bloodshot. This is a common complication caused due to Rosacea. It is usually treated by topical antibiotic medication that needs to be applied around the eyes.

2. Embarrassment, Low self-esteem, and confidence

Even though Rosacea is not a life-threatening condition, it has a damaging effect on a person’s appearance. A lot of patients find their emotional health deteriorating due to their embarrassment about their appearance. Patients who are well informed about Rosacea tend to cope better, as they are mentally prepared for the complications.

Once treatment is successful and the symptoms start to abate, the patient’s self-confidence returns.

1. Is Rosacea an autoimmune disease?

   Because the sebaceous oil glands are the focus of the inflammation in rosacea, the condition is frequently referred to be an autoimmune illness.

2. Does Rosacea itch?

   Itchiness of the skin is not a symptom of Rosacea. In the case of ocular Rosacea which affects the eyes, you may feel itchiness and irritation in the eyes.

3. What does Rosacea look like?

   If someone has Rosacea, their skin is easily flushed. With time, the facial skin can become red and sore to the touch. A rash of bumpy spots or pus-filled pustules can appear on your cheeks, nose, and forehead. If Rosacea affects your eyes, you may find redness and swelling on your eyelids and a bloodshot look in your eyes. Here is a picture that shows what Rosacea looks like.

4. Is Rosacea contagious?

   Rosacea is not communicable and is not brought on by bad hygiene. But, there are methods you can use to treat symptoms. Try to avoid a trigger as much as you can if you are aware that it exacerbates symptoms, such as alcohol or spicy food.

5. Is Rosacea infectious?

   No. Rosacea is not infectious and cannot spread from one person to another.

6. Can Rosacea be permanently cured?

   No. As of now, there is no permanent cure for Rosacea. However, there is a variety of treatments available on MedsNow to control the symptoms of Rosacea.

7. What are the early signs of Rosacea?

   Early Rosacea usually starts with flushing, more frequently than usual. Soon after, a mild rash or redness starts to appear on the nose, cheeks, and chin (the central part of the face). These are the two most common signs of the onset of Rosacea.

8. How can I know if I have Rosacea?

   The best way to find out if you have Rosacea or not is to see a doctor. A physical examination of the skin is enough for a physician to diagnose Rosacea. In some cases, especially if you have mild Rosacea – the doctor may refer you to a dermatologist who can determine whether you have Rosacea or some other skin condition.

9. Does Rosacea go away?

   Rosacea doesn't disappear by itself. In fact, if you don't treat it, it usually becomes worse and might possibly cause lasting skin damage. Our staff at LUX Dermatology is available if you suspect that you have rosacea or if you have been diagnosed and want to discover a successful treatment.

10. Does Rosacea Come and Go?

    Yes. Rosacea is a waxing and waning skin condition. As there is no cure, the best thing to do is identify your triggers and avoid any activity that may flare your Rosacea up. In case it does flare up, take oral or topical medication as prescribed by your doctor to help subdue the flare-up.

11. Does Rosacea burn?

    Flushing episodes, in which the skin briefly turns red, are a common precursor to additional symptoms, such as burning and stinging sensations, which might appear as the illness worsens.

12. What are some good home remedies for Rosacea?

    Some of the home remedies that are effective for Rosacea are:

    • Soaks consisting of diluted vinegar (1 part regular table vinegar & 6 parts water) to gently cleanse the skin on a daily or weekly basis. Vinegar does not suit every type of skin. The best idea is to apply the soak to a small part of the face to test, before trying on the whole face.
    • A homemade green tea soaks to soothe the inflammation is also very useful for Rosacea.
    • Avoiding exposure to extreme heat conditions. Use a sun-block with at least SPF 15 for protection if going out.
    • Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages.
    • Avoid spicy food.
    • Keep your skin as clean and as moisturized as possible.

13. How to calm Rosacea flare up?

    Following tips can you clam rosacea flare up:

    • Considering sun protection A few minutes in the sun can cause uncontrollable flushing and redness on skin that is prone to rosacea.
    • Be less stressed.
    • Avoid getting too hot.
    • Reconsider hot drinks.
    • See how alcohol affects you.
    • Eat less hot meals.
    • Choose your hair and skin care products with care.
    • Makeup for rosacea should be used.

14. What happens if Rosacea is left untreated?

    If not treated on time for a long period of time, Rosacea can become more noticeable on your facial skin. Frequent flushing can turn into a permanent facial redness, spider veins may appear on your cheeks and some people even get acne-like breakouts.

15. Can you pop Rosacea bumps?

    Bumps and pimples are one of the main symptoms of rosacea. These pimples frequently contain pus. They can cause an infection if they burst and aren't sterilised. Moreover, the affected area starts to hurt quite a bit.

16. Is Rosacea genetic?

    There is no clear-cut pattern of inheritance for rosacea since it is a complicated disease involving genetic and environmental effects. According to studies, those with rosacea are four times more likely than those without the ailment to have a family history of the condition.

17. Is Rosacea a serious condition?

    Rosacea is not life-threatening; however, if untreated for a long period, Rosacea can cause great discomfort and permanent disfiguration on the facial skin. Rosacea also damages a person’s self-esteem and confidence due to the effect of the disease on the patient’s appearance.

18. Is vitamin c good for Rosacea?

    Rosacea can be effectively treated with vitamin C because it has anti-inflammatory qualities that help to repair and calm irritated skin. Vitamin C is a fantastic product for preventing rosacea flare-ups since it shields your skin from free radicals and sun damage that could be irritating your skin.