Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and even bumps or pimples on the face. If left untreated, rosacea can worsen over time, but with proper care and targeted rosacea treatments, flare-ups can be managed, and symptoms significantly minimised.
In this article, we’ll explore what causes rosacea, including its signs, symptoms, common triggers, and available treatment options. From medical-grade skincare treatments to non-surgical aesthetic procedures such as polynucleotides and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, there are effective ways to help manage Rosacea.
Rosacea Symptoms and Signs
Rosacea manifests in various ways, and understanding these signs is key to managing the condition effectively. Common symptoms include:
1. Facial Redness
The most noticeable sign of rosacea is persistent redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. This redness often resembles a blush or sunburn and can come and go, becoming more pronounced over time, especially during a rosacea flare-up.
2. Visible Blood Vessels
Small blood vessels, called telangiectasia (tel-anj-ek-tays-ia), can become enlarged and visible on the skin’s surface, particularly around the nose and cheeks.
3. Bumps and Pimples
Acne-like bumps or pustules are another common symptom, often leading to confusion between rosacea and acne.
4. Skin Sensitivity
Individuals with rosacea may notice that their skin becomes irritated or feels burning or stinging, particularly when using skincare products.
5. Eye Irritation
In some cases, rosacea can affect the eyes, causing dryness, irritation, and redness, a condition called ocular rosacea.
If you’re wondering what helps rosacea, identifying these symptoms early is crucial to seeking the right treatment and minimising rosacea flare-ups.
Rosacea Triggers and Causes
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but several factors are thought to contribute to the development of the condition. These include:
- Genetics: A family history of rosacea increases the likelihood of developing the condition, suggesting that genetics plays a significant role.
- Immune System Abnormalities: Research indicates that an abnormal immune system response may contribute to the inflammation often seen in rosacea.
- Blood Vessel Abnormalities: Rosacea is believed to be linked to the dilation of blood vessels in the skin, leading to persistent redness and visible veins.
While the causes are not entirely clear, rosacea flare-ups are often triggered by environmental and lifestyle factors, such as:
- Hot or Cold Weather: Extreme temperatures can cause the blood vessels in the skin to expand, resulting in redness and irritation.
- Spicy Foods and Alcohol: Consuming spicy dishes or alcoholic drinks is a common trigger for worsening rosacea symptoms.
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can irritate the skin, leading to a rosacea flare-up.
- Stress: Emotional stress is another significant factor that can exacerbate rosacea symptoms, making stress management an important part of care.
- Skin Care Products: Harsh skincare ingredients, such as alcohol or fragrances, can irritate sensitive skin and worsen the condition.
Understanding these rosacea triggers and causes can help in identifying what worsens your symptoms and managing rosacea flare-ups more effectively.
Rosacea Treatment Options
While there is no cure for rosacea, there are many effective treatment options available to help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Treatment typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medical-grade skincare, and non-surgical aesthetic procedures.
Medical-Grade Skincare Treatments For Rosacea
A critical component of rosacea management is using the right skincare products. Medical-grade skincare products are specifically designed to address the underlying causes of rosacea and support skin healing. Key ingredients to look for in rosacea-friendly skincare include:
1. Gentle Cleansers:
A gentle, non-stripping cleanser can remove dirt and oil without irritating the skin. Look for products labelled as fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and hypoallergenic. For example, Obagi NuDerm Gentle Cleanser.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients:
Ingredients like niacinamide, green tea extract, and azelaic acid are known for their soothing, anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce redness and irritation.
3. Moisturisers:
A good moisturiser is essential to protect the skin’s barrier, keeping it hydrated and preventing further irritation. Try Obagi Hydrate and Obagi Daily HydroDrops.
4. Sun Protection:
Sunscreen is crucial in preventing flare-ups, as sun exposure is one of the most common triggers. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, and opt for a formula designed for sensitive skin, e.g. Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50.
5. Metronidazole:
Metronidazole is an antibiotic that treats rosacea by reducing inflammation and killing bacteria on the skin. It’s available with a prescription as a topical gel, cream, or lotion.
Non-Surgical Aesthetic Treatments for Rosacea
In addition to skincare, non-surgical aesthetic treatments can provide significant improvement in rosacea, especially for those dealing with persistent redness and visible blood vessels.
1. Polynucleotides for Rosacea
Polynucleotides, often used in regenerative medicine, are a type of nucleic acid that help repair and regenerate skin cells. When used for rosacea, they can help improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and promote the healing of irritated skin. This treatment helps restore the skin’s natural barrier function and reduces redness by encouraging collagen production and repairing the damaged skin tissue caused by rosacea flare-ups. Polynucleotides are injected into the skin, where they can work to stimulate collagen synthesis and restore a more even skin tone.
2. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
One of the most popular aesthetic treatments for rosacea is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. IPL uses broad-spectrum light to target and reduce redness, visible blood vessels, and pigmentation associated with rosacea. The light penetrates the skin at various depths, allowing it to target both the superficial redness as well as deeper blood vessels that contribute to persistent redness.
IPL is an excellent option for those with telangiectasia (broken blood vessels) or who suffer from facial redness. It can reduce the appearance of blood vessels, improve skin tone, and decrease the frequency of rosacea flare-ups. IPL is non-invasive and requires minimal downtime, making it an attractive option for many patients.
How You Can Manage Rosacea for Healthy, Clear Skin
Rosacea is a challenging skin condition, but with the right approach, it can be managed effectively. Whether you’re using medical-grade skincare to soothe your skin, reducing triggers in your lifestyle, or opting for non-surgical treatments like polynucleotides or IPL therapy, there are many ways to reduce rosacea symptoms and achieve a clearer, more even complexion. By understanding the triggers and symptoms of rosacea and seeking professional help for treatment, you can take proactive steps to manage this condition and restore your confidence.
If you suspect you have rosacea, it’s important to consult with a qualified professional like Dr Charlotte, who can provide a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
