ROSACEA

Rosacea (roh-ZAY-shuh) is a common, but poorly understood chronic skin disorder. Characterized by flare-ups and remissions, the inflammatory skin condition affects more than 16 million Americans and is most prevalent among those with fair skin and over the age of 30. For those living with rosacea, the symptoms of a ruddy or patchy face can lead to lower self-esteem, potentially interfering with social interactions and even professional ones. Although there is no cure for the condition and the cause is unknown, once diagnosed it can be managed with medical treatment.

To best address the condition and control the onset of advanced symptoms, Dr. Senait Dyson, a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in Tucson, AZ, recommends getting a comprehensive diagnosis as soon as possible. Because rosacea has four subtypes, consulting a skin doctor is especially important to the development of an effective rosacea treatment plan.

Basic Signs. Rosacea’s signs and symptoms vary from case to case, but the condition always includes at least one the of the following: flushing, persistent facial redness, bumps and pimples (sometimes confused with acne), and visible blood vessels. Other common symptoms include:

Dry skin

Skin plaques ( raised red patches)

Skin thickening

Burning, stinging or itching

Swelling and inflammation

Watery, bloodshot eyes (ocular rosacea)

The Four Subtypes. Rosacea has four subtypes, based on common patterns and signs. Many individuals exhibit characteristics of more than one subtype at the same time. In addition, rosacea is progressive and there are four stages (pre-rosacea, mild, moderate and severe). Understanding the subtypes and the stages can help determine treatment.

Subtype 1: Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea
Characteristic: Facial redness. With this subtype, individuals experience flushing and persistent facial redness, especially on the forehead, chin, cheeks and nose.

Subtype 2: Papulopustular Rosacea
Characteristic: Bumps and pimples. The presence of papules and pustules, resembling acne, is the dominant symptom of this subtype.

Subtype 3: Phymatous Rosacea
Characteristic: Enlargement of the nose. This subtype is associated with severe thickening of the skin, leading irregular skin surface, such as a bulbous nose (rhinophyma).

Subtype 4: Ocular Rosacea
Characteristic: Eye irritation. Watery or bloodshot eyes result from this subtype.

Rosacea Treatment
Successful treatment is a combination of medical care and lifestyle management. To bring the condition immediately under control, topical and oral medications can be prescribed (such as retinol creams and oral antibiotics). Laser treatment is highly effective in removing blood vessels and improving the texture of the skin. Skin care products may irritate or sooth. Speaking with a skin doctor will help refine the best skin care routine. Finally, what are the triggers? Does the condition worsen with sun exposure? Is the skin aggravated by certain foods or alcohol? Does stress cause a flare-up? Understanding the role that lifestyle and environmental factors play in triggering rosacea will give an added measure of control.

Located in Tucson, AZ, our doctor has been treating patients with acne for many years. Her caring manner will put you at ease as you work together to find a solution to this frustrating skin problem. Medical treatment for acne is effective and easily accessible – contact us today to take the first step towards regaining clear, smooth, and healthy skin.

Because of the variability in individuals and symptoms, those who are affected by rosacea should work closely with a skin doctor to understand their specific condition and tailor their treatment. Dr. Dyson will closely monitor your condition and adjust treatment as necessary. If you have or suspect you have rosacea and are looking for a skin doctor in Tucson, contact Dyson Dermatology at (520) 838-0777 to schedule an appointment.