Rosacea - Skin Conditions

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels, mostly in your face. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. The symptoms may flare up for a period of weeks to months and then diminish for a while.

The cause of rosacea is unknown, but it could be due to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. A variety of triggers can worsen rosacea by increasing blood flow to the surface of your skin, including hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, extreme temperatures, sunlight or wind, emotions, exercise, cosmetics, and certain medications.

There are four types of rosacea:

1. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: Redness, flushing, visible blood vessels.
2. Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
3. Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickens and has a bumpy texture.
4. Ocular rosacea: Eyes red and irritated, eyelids can be swollen, and styes are common.

While there’s no cure for rosacea, treatments can control and reduce the signs and symptoms. Treatments are often based on the type of rosacea one has and may include topical medications, oral antibiotics, laser therapy, and lifestyle modifications.