Monday, April 4, 2022
Red, swollen nose, thickened skin and bumps: that's often the image that comes to mind when we hear the word "rosacea". Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that affects the central area of the face.
The Canadian Dermatology Association estimates that over three million Canadians are affected.
The first signs of rosacea appear in adults between the ages of 30 and 50. The exact causes of rosacea are still unknown, but experts believe it is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Generally, the first sign of rosacea is intermittent redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead or chin. Over time, this redness will become more persistent and visible. Bumps, pimples or dilated blood vessels may also be present. The disease can also affect the eyes, giving a sensation of sand in the eyes. Symptoms vary from person to person, as does the severity of the disease.
Keep an eye on:
Frequent appearance of redness on cheeks, nose, chin, forehead.
Persistent redness.
Dilated blood vessels that form a network of red lines on the surface of the skin.
Dry skin.
Burning or stinging sensation, itching.
Bumps that look like pimples, but without comedones (blackheads) or whiteheads.
Erythematotelangiectatic - The main symptoms are redness on the face that can appear and disappear. There may also be swelling, burning and stinging; the skin may be rough and small veins may become visible on the skin surface.
Papulopustular - This is a form of rosacea that is characterised by persistent redness and bumps that look like acne pimples (and are often mistaken for acne).
Phymatous - In some people, rosacea can affect the sebaceous glands and connective tissue, causing the skin to thicken and become bumpy. Phymatous rosacea most often affects the nose (rhinophyma) and rarely the forehead and chin.
Ocular Rosacea - In addition to skin symptoms, rosacea can also affect the eyes and eyelids. It can cause redness of the skin around the eye and also burning, stinging, dryness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision and watery, bloodshot eyes.
Canadian Dermatology Association
Rosacea does not go away without treatment and may even worsen over time. There are several very effective treatments available on prescription. If you think you have rosacea, consult a dermatologist who can prescribe a variety of treatments for your situation.
It's a form of acne
If you have confirmed rosacea, don't use acne creams to treat your skin, as they can actually dry and irritate your skin further.
It's caused by an alcohol problem
Excessive alcohol consumption does not cause rosacea. However, alcohol is known to be a trigger that can worsen the symptoms of people with rosacea.
It's caused by high blood pressure
It's often believed that high blood pressure causes a flushed face, but this is not true.
It's the result of poor hygiene
Rosacea is not caused by not washing the skin enough. In fact, because Rosacea skin tends to be very dry and sensitive, excessive washing can make the symptoms worse.
It's a sunburn or frostbite
Because of the redness that characterizes Rosacea, people may think you have a sunburn or frostbite.
BE GENTLE! That's the key to caring for skin with Rosacea.
Start by addressing the factors that can make symptoms worse:
Avoid major temperature changes
Don't expose yourself to the sun
Eliminate hot beverages, caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods
Do not use skin irritating products such as scrubs and exfoliants.
Avoid strenuous exercise
A few tips:
Use a gentle cleanser for sensitive skin.
Choose non-drying, alcohol-free products.
Reduce the temperature and duration of showers.
Avoid rubbing the skin to dry it
Keep skin well hydrated at all times
Apply sunscreen daily, year-round
Clean your face with a mild cleanser and warm water.
Gently pat dry rather than rubbing the skin.
Moisturize the skin with a cream or lotion containing sun protection.
Sun protection, every day, all year round!
UV rays are present every day, even in winter, even when it rains. Dermatologists can't say it enough!
Taking baths or showers with water at 38 degrees is ideal. Water that is much hotter may increase the symptoms of rosacea.
Clean your face with a gentle cleanser and avoid exfoliation.
Use a mild, non-drying soap for the rest of the body.
Gently pat dry rather than rubbing the skin.
After showering or bathing, moisturize skin with a body lotion or lotion.
Use moisturizers for sensitive skin on the face.
Looking to learn more?
Saturday, April 1, 2023
Dr. Marc-André Doré
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