Acne Rosacea, A Worst Case Combination

Acne rosacea is a chronic condition usually characterized by redness across the central regions of the face. This is sometimes accompanied by pimples or papules. While it is generally a harmless condition unless it occurs around the eyes, it causes concern to those affected. Men and women may be affected, but it is more common in women.

The onset is typically between the ages of thirty and sixty. It is usually confined to the cheeks, nose and forehead. The neck, chest, ears and scalp are less commonly affected. Very severe cases may lead to thickened skin and deformities of the nose. A good example of this would be W.C.Fields.

People with rosacea often have permanent redness and flush or blush very easily. There may be visible blood vessels on the surface of the skin. It was long thought to be a sign of excessive alcohol consumption, but while alcohol may aggravate the condition, it is not the cause.

What Makes Acne Rosacea Even Worse

Alcohol, sun exposure, spicy foods, heat, humidity, and caffeine may all worsen acne rosacea. What causes rosacea is not clear. In some cases the demodectic mite is thought to be a factor. This is the same mite that causes mange in dogs.

Others schools of thought are that it is caused by intestinal bacteria or that it may be an autoimmune problem. Mild cases may not be diagnosed or treated formally, but more severe cases are often treated with antibiotics, both topical and internal.

Keep in mind that treatment may only control this disorder but will not provide a permanent cure, although some patients may go into remission for periods of time. Some outbreaks are triggered by excessive sun exposure, differences in temperature, spicy foods, histamine containing foods, and nasal steroids.

Other Treatments For Acne Rosacea

Laser therapy can greatly improve the appearance of acne rosacea. It is not particularly painful and the laser heats the superficial vessels causing them to collapse and be absorbed by the body’s defense mechanisms.

A woman I know had acne rosacea laser treatment and described it as similar to being popped by a rubber band. She was very pleased with the results. Often, this severe acne treatments will need to be repeated at some point when new vessels appear.

The CO2 laser is very effective in treating phymatous rosacea. It removes excess inflamed tissue from the nose and reduces the bulbous appearance.

Acne rosacea can co-exist with acne vulgaris and/or seborrhoeic dermatitis. People can be affected by more than type of rosacea as well. A dermatologist can provide the best advice and treatment options for acne rosacea so please find one and get started today.