Rosacea
Rosacea, pronounced "roh-ZAY-sha", is a very common and chronic skin condition. Your Houston rosacea experts can help you understand and treat this distressing condition. Often times, it begins with a tendency to blush and flush more easily than other people. The redness and flushing typically begins in the nose and cheeks, and with time it spreads to the forehead and chin area. In more severe cases, the ears, back, and chest can be affected.
Rosacea is more than just redness though. It can cause several signs and symptoms, and it is therefore broken down into 4 different subtypes:
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: Redness, flushing, visible blood vessels.
Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickens and has a bumpy texture.
Ocular rosacea: Eyes red and irritated, eyelids can be swollen, and person may have what looks like a sty (stye).
Rosacea can affect anybody, but often times it will appear some time in a person's twenties or thirties and progressively worsen. Over time, the redness can become deeper, or ruddier, and more persistent, and visible blood vessels (telangiectasias) may appear. If it is left untreated, pimples can develop. In severe cases, the nose can become swollen and bumpy from excess tissue, in a condition caused rhinophyma.
Rosacea can affect all skin types, though individuals with fair skin are at greater risk. Men and women are both affected, but women are diagnosed more frequently. There is no cure for rosacea, but it can be successfully controlled. Making lifestyle changes to avoid triggers improves the rosacea and also prevents it from worsening.
Think sun protection 24/7
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is rosacea-friendly with an SPF 30 (or higher) every day and reapply every 2 hours
Avoid the midday sun
Seek shade when outdoors
Slip on a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors to protect your face and neck from the sun
Wear sun-protective clothing and sunglasses
