Have you ever wondered where the red spots on your face are coming from? The condition is called rosacea, which targets mainly the face and results in redness, flushing of the complexion, and blood vessels becoming prominent.
This blog aims to shed light on the causes of rosacea, outline appropriate treatments, and determine which therapies are most effective at reducing its redness.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a long-term dermatological disorder restricted mainly to the face, producing redness, flushing of the skin, and prominent blood vessels. It can also produce colorless, red, and pus-filled bumps that can be easily confused with acne. The condition tends to wax and wane, with rosacea symptoms sometimes disappearing for a time before reappearing.
Rosacea Causes
The causes of rosacea remain undiscovered. Studies suggest rosacea could be a symptom of:
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Blood Vessels, Immune System, or Nervous System Issues
Researchers suspect that rosacea could be related to the condition affecting blood vessels, immune system, or nervous system. Yet, the exact relationship remains a subject of research.
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Microscopic Skin Mites (Demodex)
Demodex mites are present normally on the skin, especially on the nose and cheeks. The abundance of these mites is believed to be the main cause of an outbreak of rosacea.
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Infection
Studies have also shown a possible link between the bacteria that causes (H. pylori) infection and rosacea. Sufferers from this form of infection may also be more prone to rosacea.
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Protein Malfunction
Cathelicidin is a protein that keeps the skin from being infected. If this protein is abnormal or malfunctions, it may trigger rosacea symptoms.
Best Rosacea Remedies
Although there’s no cure for rosacea, there are some proven remedies and treatments that can control its redness and bumps.
Topical Medications
- Azelaic Acid: The gel or foam takes care of bumps, swelling, redness, and bacterial skin growth.
- Calcineurin Inhibitors (Pimecrolimus and Tacrolimus): These help control inflammation.
- Clindamycin and Erythromycin: Antibiotic agents used to fight skin bacteria.
- Ivermectin (Soolantra): Effective in reducing inflammation.
- Metronidazole (Flagyl) and Doxycycline: The antibiotics used to treat rosacea.
Oral Medications
- Isotretinoin: Although it is primarily an acne medicine, it is also known to be used in treating rosacea. Caution is advised for usage in pregnancy as it can result in congenital disabilities in the fetus.
Other Procedure
- Dermabrasion: Removing the outermost surface layer of skin to improve texture.
- Electrocautery: This uses an electric current to destroy damaged blood vessels.
Rosacea Therapy
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Employing lasers to detect and reduce pigmentation and redness. Thickened skin can also be treated through laser resurfacing.
Therapy for Rosacea Redness
The long-term redness, which is a common phenomenon accompanying rosacea, can be complex to deal with. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Green-Tinted Makeup: Green-tinted makeup is specially formulated to neutralize redness, making skin tone more even.
- Sun Protection: In most cases, rosacea is brought on by exposure to the sun. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is advised to protect the skin and reduce redness.
- Cooling Products: The use of cool compresses or skin care products containing calming ferments such as chamomile or aloe vera can help.
- Brimonidine Gel and Oxymetazoline Hydrochloride Cream: The rosacea on your face can be treated with these prescription medications that will minimize the redness.
Conclusion
While living with rosacea has its hardships, a proper match of appropriate treatments and therapies can regulate many symptoms. Acceptance of a soft beauty regimen and adjustment to the lifestyle can also ensure that people with rosacea build up their skin health confidence.
