What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that affects the facial skin. Rosacea causes reddened skin, frequent flushing, and sometimes pimple-like bumps on the nose and cheeks. Due to its similar symptoms, rosacea is often mistaken for a skin allergy, eczema, or acne and prior to its diagnosis, 95% of patients knew little to nothing about this condition.
Rosacea is more common among light-skinned patients and affects over 16 million Americans and as many as 415 million people worldwide. Because of its noticeable symptoms, rosacea can negatively affect one’s emotional, physical, and social well-being and without treatment, it can worsen. Over 90% of rosacea patients have stated that their condition has lowered their self-esteem, with 41% avoiding or canceling social interactions or functions.
While rosacea can negatively impact those it affects, there is a silver lining. There is no cure for rosacea, but modern medicine has created numerous treatments and can relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
If left untreated, rosacea can become more noticeable by way of redness, skin thickening, and the development of firm red bumps. In severe cases or with ocular rosacea, permanent damage to the eyes can occur. Early intervention for this condition is crucial to manage physical and mental health.
Although lifestyle changes and a proper diet may have a positive effect on decreasing symptoms, the best path for finding consistent relief is to connect with a board-certified dermatologist. At Burt & Will, our physicians and board-certified Physician Assistant with a specialty in dermatology, can help you learn more about your type of rosacea and develop a treatment plan to fit your needs.
Symptoms of Rosacea
Rosacea can present in a variety of symptoms, which differ for each person. These symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated. Typical symptoms experienced and flare-ups may present differently, especially with common triggers such as sun exposure, stress, or weather changes.
Common symptoms include:
- Flushing: Sudden reddening of the skin, or flushing, is an intense blush that comes and goes. Flushing can be triggered by stress, hot drinks, or alcohol.
- Facial Redness: Persistent redness often appears on the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead.
- Visible Blood Vessels: Blood vessels on the skin will appear as thin red lines on the cheeks and nose.
- Bumps and Pimples: Often mistaken for acne, many patients with rosacea experience bumps on the face, chest, or back and may contain pus.
- Thickened Skin: Rosacea can cause the skin to thicken, primarily on the nose, giving the nose an enlarged and bulbous look.
- Burning or Stinging: The skin is more sensitive so many patients with rosacea experience burning or stinging and itching.
- Dry Skin: Dry skin is a common symptom of patients with rosacea, particularly on the skin in the center of the face.
- Eye Irritation: Ocular rosacea is a type of rosacea that causes inflammation in the eyes and the delicate skin around them and typically affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50.
- Swelling: Swelling of the face may occur on its own or with other symptoms of rosacea.
- Plaques: Raised red patches of skin may appear and are often mistaken as a rash.
As rosacea can often mimic other skin conditions, such as lupus and eczema, seeking a diagnosis from a dermatology professional is essential. A mis
Causes and Triggers of Rosacea
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. While it is known that rosacea develops due to inflammation, scientists do not know what triggers it. Theories suggest that rosacea may develop as a result of:
- Genetics: A family history of rosacea may increase one’s risk.
- Immune system response: An overactive immune system, otherwise known as an autoimmune disease, may trigger inflammation.
- Microorganisms: Natural microscopic skin mites, Demodex, live on the nose and cheeks of our face. Too many of these mites may cause rosacea.
- Infections: Bacteria, such as H. pylori, can cause an infection which can lead to the development of rosacea.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during one’s menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or menopause may temporarily worsen rosacea or trigger more flare-ups.
Identifying triggers may be a difficult process, but making the effort can help you, and your providers, manage your condition better. The most common triggers that worsen rosacea include:
- Sun exposure
- Emotional stress
- Hot weather
- Wind
- Heavy exercise
- Alcohol consumption
- Hot baths
Dietary habits are also common triggers for flare-ups. Spicy food, hot drinks, and high-histamine foods, such as aged cheese, wine, processed meats, and citrus food, can trigger rosacea.
Types of Rosacea
There are four subtypes of rosacea that each present with unique symptoms. However, patients may experience symptoms from one or more types at some point. For instance, someone with persistent redness may also develop symptoms in the eyes at some point.
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR): This subtype presents visible blood vessels, flushing, and facial redness.
- Papulopustular rosacea: Often mistaken for acne, this subtype appears as pimple-like red bumps and persistent redness.
- Phymatous rosacea: This subtype is rarer and mainly affects men and results in swelling and thickening of the skin, most commonly around the nose. This can result in the nose having a swollen or bulbous appearance.
- Ocular rosacea: Affecting the eyes, ocular rosacea can cause redness, dryness, and sensitivity of the eyes and the sensitive skin around them.
Rosacea Treatment in Naperville, Hinsdale, and Burr Ridge
Although there is no cure, different treatments can alleviate symptoms and visible signs of the condition. The most effective results are achieved through combined lifestyle changes and medical treatment. We may prescribe creams designed to mask the blemishes or medications to reduce inflammation. We’ll also walk you through the highest-yield lifestyle changes that would benefit you.
Medications
Rosacea treatment may involve a combination of oral medication and prescribed topical therapies.
- Topical medications: These include creams, gels, and lotions and are effective in reducing redness, bumps and inflammation with daily application. Azelaic acid, metronidazole, Soolantra (ivermectin) and Mirvaso (brimonidine) are common topical medications prescribed for treatment.
- Oral antibiotics: Antibiotics typically provide quicker results than topical creams but can be used simultaneously. Some patients benefit from a low-dose approach instead of full-strength medication. Examples of antibiotics prescribed include tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline. For ocular rosacea, tetracyclines may also improve photosensitivity, blurred vision, itching, and dryness.
Accutane (isotretinoin): Prescription of this oral medication is for severe cases of inflammatory rosacea when other treatments are ineffective. Accutane is a powerful drug that constrains the sebaceous glands’ oil production. Patients on Accutane will need close monitoring to ensure safety and wellness.
Laser and Light Therapy
Telangiectasia (visible blood vessels) and thickening of the skin can be reduced by laser or light treatment. We use different lasers, including intense pulsed light (IPL) and Nd:YAG lasers. IPL lasers emit bursts of light to treat mild to moderate cases of redness and flushing. Nd:YAG lasers are typically used for more severe cases or darker skin tones.
When used to treat visible blood vessels, a 50% to 75% improvement can be expected after 1 to 3 sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. For thickened skin, laser resurfacing tends to show the best results. Common side effects of laser and light therapy include redness for a couple of days, a rash of purple or red spots, and skin tightening and itching. It is generally not recommended to have laser therapy if taking Accutane.
Treating the “Rosacea Nose” (Rhinophyma)
Rhinophyma, or the thicker, textured changes of the nose from rosacea, has special considerations in treatment. The medications used tend to be different, with the pill isotretinoin being one that can prevent progression, and various surgical interventions can be very helpful as well. The thickness of the nose can be removed with dermaplaning or dermabrasion – two special techniques that help contour the nose.
Lifestyle Adjustments
While medical treatments are the first-line treatment option, making necessary lifestyle adjustments can help minimize flare-ups and reduce symptom severity:
- Avoid known triggers, such as sun exposure, stress, and activities that increase body temperature. If you aren’t sure what your triggers are, keeping a food and/or cosmetic journal can help narrow down possibilities.
- Eat a rosacea-healthy diet, which includes consuming more omega-3-rich foods (e.g., salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts), antioxidant-rich vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale, bell peppers), anti-inflammatories (e.g., ginger, berries, turmeric), pre/probiotics (e.g., yogurt, onions, kimchi, garlic), and fresh fruit.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily to protect the skin against UV rays.
- Reach for gentle and fragrance-free skincare products to avoid irritation.
- Adopt stress management techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to avoid flare-ups caused by emotional stress.
Support Resources
Dealing with a chronic skin condition may feel isolating. There are multiple support options available online, including the National Rosacea Society and the American Acne and Rosacea Society. These organizations provide resources such as educational materials, helpful guidance, and tips to manage your condition.
Before & After Photos
Explore our before and after gallery to witness the remarkable transformations that have left our clients feeling more confident and beautiful than ever. From subtle enhancements to dramatic makeovers, our gallery showcases the artistry of transformation.
Long-Term Outlook for Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic condition, so there will be ongoing management to keep symptoms at bay. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare professional are essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan for any new or updated triggers. While there is no cure for rosacea, many patients can live symptom-free lives with consistent care and proper skincare techniques.
Rosacea FAQs
A range of medical conditions are more likely in people affected by rosacea. Depression is nearly five times higher, and anxiety is associated. Cardiovascular disease is more common, including heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. Other associated conditions include migraines, rheumatoid arthritis, Helicobacter pylori infection, ulcerative colitis and dementia.
No, rosacea is not contagious. It cannot be spread from person-to-person by touch, sharing personal items, or other forms of direct contact.
Rosacea is not an infection but, in some people, regular organisms on the skin may be in higher concentration and flare the condition. One example is Demodex folliculorum, a common mite that lives on the skin and cannot be seen by the naked eye. Studies have shown that Demodex counts can be 5-6 times higher than normal in just under half of patients with rosacea. Certain creams or washes, like topical ivermectin, can kill off these mites and help treat rosacea. It’s important to note Demodex is not a harmful organism to the body, but recognizing these relationships gives us more treatment options to help achieve clear skin.
Rosacea is not a short-term issue but a chronic disorder that falls into remission and relapse. Studies indicate previously diagnosed patients have active rosacea after a decade. Although there is no cure, controlling and preventing recurrent symptoms is possible.
In some cases when left untreated, rosacea can lead to permanent skin changes. These would include thickened skin primarily on the nose and visible blood vessels. Seeing a dermatology professional early and staying consistent with treatment is essential to prevent long-term complications.
Many patients with rosacea also experience sensitive skin. This can be difficult when exposed to cosmetic or environmental triggers. To maintain healthy skin:
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer formulated for sensitive skin. Avoid those that contain alcohol or fragrance.
- Avoid exfoliating scrubs.
- Patch-test new skincare products to avoid potential full-face irritation.
Yes, it is safe to wear makeup with rosacea. However, stick to makeup designed for sensitive skin. These products are labeled as non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and do not include alcohol or other harsh chemicals. Green-tinted primers or moisturizers are especially effective in neutralizing redness on the face.
If stress triggers your symptoms, then absolutely. Techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and regular exercise can help manage flare-ups. Learning stress management techniques is never a bad investment, as less stress leads to multiple physical and emotional benefits.
Treat Your Rosacea at Burt & Will
At Burt & Will, we provide innovative and up-to-date treatment options to help clients manage their rosacea effectively and efficiently. Our personalized treatment plans can help you achieve your skincare goals, whether it’s reducing redness, visible veins, or skin thickening. We serve clients in the Chicago suburbs, including Naperville, Hinsdale, Plainfield, Burr Ridge, and Morris, ensuring accessible care for our local community. Contact us today to book a medical dermatology consult with Sydney Kahl, PA-C, our board-certified physician assistant specializing in dermatology.