If you repeatedly experience a red flushing on your face, you may have rosacea.
Rosacea is a common skin condition of the face. People with rosacea experience flushes of redness and sometimes small, pimple-like bumps. These symptoms may come and go, and generally worsen over time.
Symptoms of Rosacea
The signs of rosacea include:
- Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin, and/or forehead that gets darker and more persistent over time.
- Sensitive, dry skin that burns or stings, or skin that becomes rough and thick.
- Visible blood vessels.
- Bumps and pimples.
- Swelling, especially on and around the nose (a condition called rhinophyma).
- Itchy, dry, watery, and/or bloodshot eyes.
- In some case, red patches on the neck, chest, scalp, or ears.
Risk Factors for Rosacea
No one is sure what causes rosacea, although there is evidence that it may be hereditary. Anyone can develop rosacea, but you may be more prone to it if you:
- Are female.
- Are over age 30.
- Have fair or sensitive skin.
- Have had extensive sun exposure, which can damage the skin and blood vessels.
- Have a history of acne, especially with cysts.
- Have a family history of rosacea.
Treatment for Rosacea
If you experience redness on your face that won’t go away — especially if your skin is dry and irritated, or you start to develop pimple-like bumps — you should see a dermatologist.
The pattern of redness typical of rosacea is distinct, so the doctor may diagnose it without further medical tests.
There is no known cure for rosacea, but a variety of treatment methods can help control or reverse the symptoms.
Because rosacea takes different forms with different combinations of symptoms, talk to a dermatologist to determine the best treatment options for you.
Medicine for Rosacea
Treatment to soothe and control rosacea may include:
- Prescription medicines — Topical medicines such as brimonidine can help to reduce redness caused by rosacea. A doctor also may prescribe an antibiotic to help reduce inflammation. Some acne medications also may help to clear symptoms of rosacea.
- Laser therapy — This treatment can reduce the appearance of large blood vessels. Dermabrasion and intense pulsed light therapy also can help treat visible blood vessels.
- Topical products for sensitive skin — You can protect your skin with moisturizers and sunscreens made for sensitive skin. A sensitive skin formula can help if your skin is irritated and uncomfortable with dry, rough patches or a burning sensation.
- Artificial tears: If rosacea makes your eyes red, dry, and irritated, using artificial tears or prescription eye drops may help.
Do you think you have rosacea? Talk to a UPMC dermatologist. Get expert skin care anywhere in Pennsylvania with UPMC eDermatology.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .