Definition

Rosacea is a skin disorder. It causes chronic redness of the face. Rosacea usually affects the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. The ears, chest, and back may also be affected. More than half of people with rosacea also have mild eye symptoms. This may include redness, burning, and watering. This is known as ocular rosacea.

Causes

The cause of rosacea is unknown. Several theories exist.

Factors that can cause flushing or blushing may trigger flare-ups in people with rosacea.

These factors include:

• Very hot or spicy foods
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Sun exposure
• Extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold)
• Exercise
• Emotional stress or social embarrassment
• Rubbing, scrubbing, or massaging the face
• Irritating cosmetics and other toiletries

Risk Factors

Rosacea is more common in women, between 30 and 60 years old, and in people with fair skin.

Your risk of rosacea is increased if you have family members who also have rosacea.

Symptoms

The symptoms of rosacea vary from person to person. They include:

• Frequent flushing on the face and neck
• Redness and swelling on the face
• Small pink bumps and/or pimples
• Thin red lines showing the small blood vessels of the face
• Redness, burning, dryness, and tearing of the eyes
• An enlarged, bulbous red nose—less common, affecting men more than women

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Your skin will also be examined. You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in skin disorders. This type of doctor is called a dermatologist. Do not try to diagnose or treat yourself. Certain over-the-counter medications could make your condition worse.

Treatment

Rosacea generally can’t be cured. It can be controlled. There are several ways to manage rosacea. Your doctor may recommend more than one, depending on your condition.

Prevention

Preventing rosacea can be difficult. If you have rosacea, there are several steps you can take to control the condition:

• Avoid things that may trigger flushing or blushing. This includes certain foods, alcohol, and exposure to the sun.
• Protect your skin from the sun. Use clothing, hats, or sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
• Exercise in a cool environment to avoid overheating.
• Avoid anything that irritates your skin:
  • Apply topical medications, moisturizers, and cosmetics gently
  • Use cleansers, moisturizers, cosmetics, and other toiletries that are gentle and alcohol-free

National Rosacea Society http://www.rosacea.org

Dermatologists.ca http://www.dermatologists.ca

Crawford GH, Pelle MT, et al. Rosacea: I. Etiology, pathogenesis, and subtype classification. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:327-341;quiz 342-344. Review.

Pelle MT, Crawford GH, et al. Rosacea: II therapy. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:499-512;quiz 513-514. Review.

Rosacea. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/dermatology-a-to-z/diseases-and-treatments/q—t/rosacea. Accessed January 22, 2015.

Sunscreen FAQs. American Academy of Dermatology website. Available at: https://www.aad.org/media-resources/stats-and-facts/prevention-and-care/sunscreens. Accessed January 22, 2015.