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Rosacea is not Acne
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is often mistaken for acne and is frequently referred to as adult acne because it typically appears after the age of 30. However, Rosacea is not acne at all.
Acne is the result of clogged pores that cause blackheads and pimples. These primarily appear on the face, but can also emerge on the back, neck, shoulders and chest.
Rosacea, on the other hand, seems to involve the vascular network connected to the "blush" area of the face, the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.
It does cause redness, bumps and pus-filled pimples, but these are not the result of clogged pores and they rarely appear anywhere on the body beyond the face. The pimples can resemble acne, but they are not whiteheads or blackheads.
What Are the Symptoms of Rosacea?
Rosacea affects an estimated 14 million Americans, many of whom don't know they have it. Because the early signs of rosacea are episodic, meaning that it flares up and subsides, it is easy to mistake the condition for rosy cheeks, sunburn, or an outbreak of acne.
Rosacea is characterized by persistent facial redness that can look like a blush or sunburn. For many people, the small blood vessels under the facial skin can also become visible.
In advanced cases, the facial skin may thicken, most commonly on the nose. This condition is known as rhinophyma and affects more men than women. The effects of rhinophyma could be seen in the trademark bulbous nose of W.C. Fields.
Who Gets Rosacea?
Rosacea most often occurs in adults between the ages of 30 and 50. Fair-skinned people who tend to flush or blush easily seem to be at greatest risk. The condition is more frequently diagnosed in women. However, more severe cases tend to be seen in men.
Can Rosacea be Cured?
Rosacea cannot be cured. There are however, medical therapies that can control or eliminate the various symptoms and reverse its advancement.
If you suspect that you have rosacea, consult with a dermatologist to find the most effective treatment to help minimize your symptoms and prevent the disease's advancement.
How is Rosacea Treated?
Your dermatologist can describe treatment options for rosacea.
Self Help
Rosacea sufferers have come to know that there are certain environmental and emotional factors that can trigger a flare-up.
While the triggers vary from person to person, there are some common ones. They include: sun exposure, emotional stress, hot or cold weather, wind, alcohol, spicy foods, heavy exercise, hot baths, heated beverages and certain skin-care products.
Seek Expert Help
While rosacea is not a grave medical condition, without treatment it can become a very troubling and embarrassing condition. Early diagnosis and treatment can bring rosacea under control and help prevent its advancement. If you think you might have rosacea, consult with a dermatologist.
