Rosacea

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin condition affecting more than 14 million people in the United States. Rosacea often presents between the ages of 30 and 50, and risk factors for this condition include being fair-skinned, blond-haired/blue-eyed and being from Celtic or Scandinavian descent.

What causes rosacea?

Although we do not know exactly what causes rosacea, family genes, dysregulation of the immune system, and a skin mite called demodex that lives on everyone’s skin may play a role.

What are the different types of rosacea?

Rosacea comes in several different forms. The most common form presents as facial redness over the nose and cheeks. Patients often describe their tendency to blush easily. Other forms of rosacea consist of acne-like breakouts, thickening or “hypertrophy” of oil glands leading to a bulbous or larger nose, and irritation, redness, and swelling of the eyes. Ocular rosacea affects the eyes causing redness and irritation. Symptoms include watery and bloodshot eyes; dry eyes that burn and feel gritty; blurry vision; visible broken blood vessels on the eyelids, cysts on the eyelids and impaired vision.

What are the treatment options for rosacea?

The goal in treating rosacea is to control symptoms, reduce and/or eliminate flare-ups which aggravate the condition, relieve discomfort and prevent worsening of the condition. Rosacea is a frustrating and often times, embarrassing condition that causes many patients to avoid social situations. Depending on the type of rosacea you have, treatments may be targeted toward improving facial redness, acne bumps, and thickened skin. Treatments might include laser therapy, topical or oral medications, and surgical procedures. Although rosacea is a chronic problem, your symptoms can be improved. Treatment can improve the quality of life for those affected by rosacea. Medical dermatologist, Dr. Jenna Queller will develop a customized treatment plan to help alleviate your rosacea.