description & symptoms

Rosacea, also known as acne rosacea, has no connection with acne.

Flushing frequently is a common symptom, which can cause burning or intense pain.

Areas most affected are the nose and cheeks.

The eyes can appear bloodshot and feel gritty, and can affect up to half of sufferers.

The condition is long term and is believed to be a follicle disorder.

Red patches or burst capillaries will appear on the face, and multiple spots can develop in the affected area.

Acne pustules can also develop. The condition may appear to improve and then suddenly flare up for no apparent reason.

In an advanced state, the nose can appear bumpy, red and swollen.

who does it affect?

There is no known cause and it mainly appears in people in their 30's and 40's, or later.

Sufferers tend to have fair, sensitive skin.

Eye conditions such as blepharitis or the appearance of a chalazion are sometimes associated with rosacea, because these conditions are characterised by abnormal gland secretions.

Alternative therapists believe rosacea may also be due to a reduction in gastric acid output (a condition called hypochlorhydria).

Hypochlorhydria can occur due to stress, but some people will have a natural reduction in gastric juices as they age.

Sunscreens and other skincare products, particularly those containing alcohol may irritate the skin even further.

Other factors that can aggravate the condition, include: hot drinks, caffeine, dairy products, alcohol, spicy foods, overexposure to sunlight and wind, exposure to extreme hot or cold temperatures, hot baths and stress.

medical treatment

 

Broad spectrum antibiotics and topical antibiotic gels are often used to treat rosacea.Topical steroid based treatments are also used but long term use can make the condition worse, and can cause thinning of the skin.

Some specialists believe topical corticosteroids can aggravate the condition rather than relieve it.

Sunscreen is recommended because exposure to sunlight can aggravate the condition.

A moisturiser should be used daily, particularly during colder weather.

When inflammation and pustules develop, doctors may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.

Mild acids that peel surface skin layers can help promote normal skin growth.

For more severe cases, a dermatologist may inject the blood vessels with a concentrated saline solution to close them, or seal the broken vessels using a laser.

Oral antibiotics such as tetracycline can be very effective in treating acneiform lesions, however, tetracyclines can produce oesophageal irritation and ulceration.

Other side effects include nausea and vomiting, vaginal yeast infections, sunlight sensitivity and possible allergic reactions, headache and liver damage.

natural alternatives

Use mild, natural Soaps free from detergents and other irritating ingredients.

Skincare (including sunscreen) should be free from alcohol and other irritants such as artificial fragrances, preservatives and petrochemicals.

Avoid using hairspray.

Use a moisturiser daily, particularly during cold, dry weather.

Minimise exposure to direct sunlight.

Avoid known irritants such as dairy products, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods.