April is Rosacea Awareness Month

“I’m not embarrassed, I have rosacea.” With April being rosacea awareness month, there is a lot to be educated on the facial condition that affects over 16 million Americans.

Rosacea is a chronic, but manageable skin condition of the face that appears as facial blushing, typically around the center of the face. Though all skin types can be affected, it is prominently seen in individuals with fair skin who tend to blush easily. Since rosacea presents differently for all individuals, there may be different signs and symptoms that appear. While it is often characterized by flare ups and remissions, diagnostic signs of rosacea include skin thickening and persistent redness. Major signs of rosacea include, flushing, bumps and pimples, visible blood vessels and eye irritation.

According to the National Rosacea Society (NRS), Surveys have shown nearly 90% of rosacea patients feel their condition has lowered their self-confidence and self-esteem. While, 41% of patients reported it caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements.

Although there is no cure or evidence for the cause of the skin condition, rosacea can successfully be controlled through medical therapy and lifestyle changes. Skincare treatment for patients with rosacea typically will include gentle and soothing facial care, mineral based UVA/UVB protection, and avoiding topicals with irritants. Laser treatments such as: IPL, Laser Genesis, KTP, Aerolase can greatly help diminish the residual redness and broken blood vessels. Lifestyle changes may vary since everybody has different skin triggers which include environmental factors leading to facial flushing. Those who believe they might have rosacea, are encouraged to see a qualified dermatologist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

REF: Gallo RL, Granstein R, Kang S, et al. Standard classification and pathophysiology of rosacea: the 2017 update by the National Rosacea Society Expert Committee. J Am Acad Dermatol 2018;78:148-155.