Rosacea Awareness Month: Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options

April is Rosacea Awareness Month, and we wanted to raise awareness and support those living with Rosacea.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often causing redness, visible blood vessels, and pimple-like bumps on the face. Despite its prevalence, rosacea can be misunderstood and challenging to manage.

Causes:

The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Potential triggers for flare-ups include:

• Sun exposure
• Hot or spicy foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Stress
• Certain skincare products
• Temperature extremes

Symptoms:

Rosacea can manifest in various ways, with symptoms varying from person to person. Common signs and symptoms of rosacea include:

• Persistent facial redness, particularly on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead
• Visible blood vessels (telangiectasia)
• Pimple-like bumps or blemishes (papules and pustules)
• Thickened or swollen skin
• Eye irritation and redness (ocular rosacea)

Treatments:

While there is no cure for rosacea, several treatment options are available to manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups:

• Topical Medications: Prescription creams or gels containing antibiotics, azelaic acid, or retinoids may help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance.
• Oral Medications: Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or tetracycline, may be prescribed for more severe cases of rosacea to reduce inflammation and control symptoms.
• Laser Therapy: Laser or light-based therapies can target visible blood vessels and reduce redness associated with rosacea. In particular, our new VasQ Laser.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Avoiding triggers such as sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, and harsh skincare products can help prevent flare-ups and minimise symptoms.
• Skincare Routine: Gentle skincare products formulated for sensitive skin can help soothe and protect the skin barrier, reducing irritation and inflammation. We recommend the AlumierMD Calming Collection Kit.

Living with rosacea can be challenging, but with proper understanding and management, individuals can find relief from symptoms and improve their quality of life. By identifying triggers, adhering to a tailored treatment plan, and practicing gentle skincare habits, those with the condition can minimise flare-ups and maintain healthy, radiant skin. If you suspect you have rosacea or are struggling to manage your symptoms, don't hesitate to book in for a skin analysis consultation with one of our skin therapists.

Click here to book your FREE consultation, or call the clinic on 0121 456 7930.