If you suffer from persistent redness of the face, particularly the cheeks and nose, you may have rosacea. Rosacea is a benign skin condition with no definitive cause. It most often occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 60, but is actually three times more common in women. There are several types of rosacea and several rosacea treatment options.
What you should know about rosacea. A medical dermatologist explains
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is benign and requires no treatment. The red flushing can be reduced with laser surgery which targets small blood vessels beneath the skin. The surgery destroys tiny capillaries and reduces redness. Repeated laser treatments may be necessary to maintain the results.
- Papulopustular rosacea is often confused with acne. In addition to redness, this form of rosacea includes the appearance of pustules. Only a dermatologist can diagnose papulopustular rosacea. Triggers for rosacea include exposure to sunlight, exposure to temperature extremes and consumption of certain foods.
- Phymatous rosacea can cause thickening of the skin especially in the nose. This type of rosacea includes the formation of benign nodules. The symptoms can be treated with dermatologic surgery.
- Ocular rosacea affects the skin of the eyelids and is the one form of rosacea which requires medical treatment. It is important to keep the area clean to avoid eye infections. Burning and eye irritation can be present with ocular rosacea.
Find relief from the symptoms of rosacea with a certified dermatologist
While the causes of rosacea are not clear, your trusted New York City dermatologist can advise you about common triggers which include certain foods, cosmetics and histamines. A recent study suggests the overproduction of intestinal bacteria may be a cause and treatment with specific antibiotics can reduce outbreaks. At this time there is no cure for rosacea, but treatment can reduce and sometimes eliminate symptoms.
Contact us today for more information on how to treat your rosacea effectively.
