Rosacea Treatments and Facts.

by Jason Layo

Rosacea is a chronic disorder primarily of the facial skin, it is estimated that up to 16 million people in North America alone are affected by this condition. Typically rosacea initially occurs around 30 years old and begins as redness on the cheeks, nose, chin and sometimes forehead. Frequently sufferers of rosacea will go through cycles of flare up and remission. This seemingly perpetual cycle and cause great frustration.In some cases rosacea had been know to flare on the ears, neck and scalp, however the most common area affected is a “butterfly” like pattern on the nose and cheeks. As the condition progresses the redness can become more persistent and cause blood vessels to appear more visible and the skin can assume a rougher texture with scar tissue. . Rosacea has been dubbed “the curse of the Celts” due to the fact that mostly people with Celtic or Scandinavian origins seem to suffer from it. Individuals with fair skin who have a tendency to flush or blush easily are at greatest risk. Although statistically rosacea is more common in women the most severe symptoms are seen in men. Failure to treat rosacea can lead to bumps, pimples and in some cases the nose can become swollen with excess scar tissue. It is thought that the severity of many cases of male rosacea is aggravated by their failure to treat the symptoms until it they have reached advanced stages.Despite the fact that there is no ‘cure’ for rosacea it still can be effectively treated and its influence diminished.What Early Symptoms Should I Look For?A review by 17 medical experts concluded with a list of primary symptoms, rosacea will display at least one of these symptoms. Primary Signs of Rosacea* FlushingIt is more likely that people who are prone to flushing/blushing will develop rosacea.* Persistent RednessPersistent facial redness is a common sigh of rosacea, it may appear similar to a sunburn, or chapped skin.* PimplesDifferent from acne, small solid red bumps can occur that may be accompanied with a stinging sensation* Blood VesselsBlood vessels become visible on the skin around the affected area giving the skin a more ruddy appearance and complexion.Other Potential Signs and Symptoms* Eye IrritationIn many people with rosacea, the eyes may be irritated and appear watery or bloodshot, a condition known as ocular rosacea. The eyelids also may become red and swollen, and styes are common. Severe cases can result in corneal damage and vision loss without medical help.* Burning or StingingBurning or stinging sensations may often occur on the face. Itching or a feeling of tightness may also develop.* Dry AppearanceThe central facial skin may be rough, and thus appear to be very dry.* PlaquesRaised red patches, known as plaques, may develop without changes in the surrounding skin.* Skin ThickeningThe skin may thicken and enlarge from excess tissue, most commonly on the nose. This condition, known as rhinophyma, affects more men than women.* SwellingFacial swelling, known as edema, may accompany other signs of rosacea or occur independently.* Signs Beyond the FaceRosacea signs and symptoms may also develop beyond the face, most commonly on the neck, chest, scalp or ears.Rosacea is caused by the dilation of tiny microvessels called arterioles, capillaries, and venules, this process happens close to the surface of the skin, causing the red markings (called papules).Papules have three classifications; minor, moderate and severe. A minor Rosacea papule is the size of a small measles lesion. A moderate Rosacea papule is the size of a pencil eraser. A severe papule is the size of a coin and also contains pustules (pus-filled inflammatory bumps).Daily tips that all rosacea sufferers should be practising: 1. Wash with water that is lukewarm, not hot.2. Use our gentle (non-abrasive) cleanser applied with the fingers, not a cloth. 3. Blot dry, but do not rub, with a thick-pile cotton towel4. Wait for the skin to dry completely. If a cleanser hasn't been used, 5 or 10 minutes will be sufficient, otherwise waiting 20 or 30 minutes may be preferable. 5. Apply treatment. If any stinging is felt, increase the time between cleansing and applying the medication.6. Wait another 5 or 10 minutes before applying any cosmetics or moisturizer.7. It is extremely important to be aware of your sun exposure as this can worsen your Rosacea symptoms. Be sure to apply sun-block as part of your daily routine.Although there is no cure for rosacea it is possible to greatly reduce its appearance while still leading a normal life. Education is essential in making the right choices for your condition, and for a long term condition such a rosacea a natural approach is always ultimately better for your health. For more information on rosacea, its triggers and how to reduce flare ups please visit our website.

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