Rosacea is a chronic rash involving the central face that most often starts between the age of 30 and 60 years. It is more common in those with fair skin types. It may be transient, recurrent or persistent and is characterized by its red color. Although the exact cause is know, it is associated with with an increase in blood vessels just under the skin and an increase in inflammatory markers in the skin.
It is a condition characterized by facial redness, small spider vein-like blood vessels visible in the face, a burning or stinging feeling in the face, a red or bulbous nose, watery or irritable eyes and acne-like sores. It is important to differentiate rosacea from acne, however, as they are separate conditions and over-the-counter acne treatments will not improve rosacea. It is not considered an infectious disease, with no evidence that it can be spread by skin contact or by air. There is, however, evidence that rosacea could be hereditary.
There is no known cure for the condition at the time, but there are several prescription treatment options available. Though not covered by health insurance, laser photorejuvenation therapies including Vbeam can safely and effectively address the redness and discoloration caused by rosacea, using Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) technology to deliver bursts of light into the targeted area.
Avoiding “triggers” that make your rosacea worse such as sun exposure, high wind, physical activity in warm weather, stress, spicy foods, alcohol and specific skin products may also be beneficial.
