Rosacea
The worst thing you can do about rosacea is nothing. The faster you seek treatment, the better your prospects
will be.
Conditions and Causes
FACIAL REDNESS, VISIBLE BLOOD VESSELS, SMALL BUMPS, PUSTULES Rosacea is a common skin
condition that tends to be chronic and progressive. You should have it treated as soon as possible to ensure the best
chance of success in managing the disease. There is no cure, but treatment can reduce the signs and symptoms,
prevent flare-ups, and keep the condition from getting worse.
The first sign of rosacea is frequent and persistent facial flushing, primarily on the nose and cheeks. As the disease
progresses the redness may spread to the forehead and chin and even as far as the ears, chest, and back. You may
notice tiny blood vessels and clusters of small red bumps (papules), some containing pus (pustules). The most severe
form of rosacea is characterized by disfiguring enlargement of the nose, termed rhinophyma.
Approximately half of those affected with rosacea develop ocular rosacea, which can cause dryness, burning, and
grittiness of the eyes and can lead to serious complications if not treated.
Fair-skinned individuals aged 30 to 50 and women experiencing menopause are at the greatest risk of developing
rosacea, but men and women of any age and ethnicity can be affected.
The Treatment
We treat rosacea in a variety of ways, depending on the signs and symptoms of your condition:
Oral antibiotics Antibiotic pills help improve papules and pustules quickly.
Topical treatments Prescription creams, lotions, foams, washes, gels, or pads will result in slight improvement in
three or four weeks and more noticeable improvement in approximately two months.
Cortisone cream This medication reduces redness but can cause thinning of the skin if used improperly. You will
receive detailed instructions for use.
Electrodessication A small electric needle treats papules and pustules, smoothing out the skin's surface
The Schedule
Although there is no cure for rosacea, early treatment and careful management can be effective in controlling its
symptoms and progress. In some cases rosacea clears up forever. In some cases rosacea comes and goes for years. Some people have flare-ups for life.
Prevention
To reduce the likelihood of triggering a rosacea flare-up:
Use sun protection Limit sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use an SPF 30 or higher broad spectrum
sunscreen.
Watch your diet Avoid spicy foods, hot drinks, caffeine, and alcohol.
Avoid temperature extremes Protect your skin from very hot and very cold temperatures. Don't get overheated
during exercise. Wear protective clothing in windy and cold conditions.
Avoid skin irritation Use a minimum of simple skin care products. Avoid products that contain alcohol or other
irritants. Keep hair spray off your face. Don't rub, scrub, or massage your face.
Manage your personal triggers Develop a list of the foods, products, and activities that seem to coincide with
your rosacea flare-ups, and avoid or limit your exposure to them.
For More Information
American Academy of Dermatology: Rosacea
RosaceaNet
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William M. Ramsdell, MD Dermatologist, Medical Director 
