Rosacea, commonly known as the "rose disease," is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness and swelling on the face. This common skin issue is often encountered in middle-aged groups because it occurs when the blood vessels in the skin expand. Symptoms of rosacea include widespread redness on the face, acne-like bumps, sensitivity, and a burning sensation. Additionally, various factors such as stress, sunlight, extreme hot or cold weather can aggravate the condition. Treatment methods include medication therapy under dermatologist supervision, laser therapies, and skincare.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin disorder characterized by the expansion of the superficial blood vessels of the skin and inflammation. Symptoms frequently appear on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.
Initially, symptoms appear as temporary redness, but over time, redness may become permanent. In some cases, it can also cause dryness in the eyes, a stinging and burning sensation.
What Causes Rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown. It is considered a skin disorder that arises from a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system irregularities, and environmental factors.
Factors that trigger rosacea:
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Extreme hot or cold weather
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Sunlight
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Stress, intense emotional changes
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Spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine
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Skincare products containing corticosteroids
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Hot drinks
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Medications used
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Immune system
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Hair and skincare products
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Skin mites
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Hormonal imbalances
What are the Symptoms of Rosacea?
In rosacea, redness occurs on the facial areas such as the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Blood vessels become more noticeable. Itchy, acne-like rashes are observed. A burning sensation on the skin is also a common symptom.
Commonly observed symptoms include:
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Facial redness: A common symptom of rosacea is redness in the facial area, typically found in regions like the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin, as well as sensitivity.
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Rashes: Due to conditions occurring in blood vessels, itchy acne-like rashes may appear.
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Pronounced veins: Blood vessels on the face may become more prominent, appearing as fine red lines.
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Burning, stinging, and pain sensation: There may be a sense of warmth and pain on the face. If the face comes into contact with water or skincare products are applied, this pain can become more pronounced.
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Irritation in the eyes: Signs of redness and watering in the eyes emerge. Sty formation may also be observed.
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Skin thickening: In individuals with rosacea, noticeably thickening and hardening of the skin occurs.
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Dry and rough skin appearance: Among the symptoms of rosacea is the appearance of overly dry and rough skin.
How is Rosacea Treated?
The treatment of rosacea is planned according to its severity, phase, and the patient's skin type. Some treatment methods recommended by dermatologists:
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Topical medications: Creams containing antibiotics and products that reduce redness can help alleviate symptoms on the skin.
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Oral antibiotics: When inflammatory lesions start appearing, medication can be used.
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Laser therapy: Provides positive effects on the skin by reducing the appearance of enlarged blood vessels and alleviating permanent redness.
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Skincare recommendations: Regular use of alcohol-free cleansers and sunscreens is advised.
What Should People with Rosacea Pay Attention To?
Those with rosacea should avoid hot environments and not be exposed directly to sunlight. They should also stay away from spicy foods and limit the consumption of tea, coffee, and chocolate. Some points to pay attention to include:
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To avoid neglecting skincare, sunscreen should be used.
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Cleansers should contain lipids and syndet.
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The face should be washed with lukewarm water.
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Products containing substances like mint oil, camphor, and formaldehyde should be avoided.
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Products used for the face should be fragrance-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rosacea contagious?
Rosacea is not a contagious disease and does not spread through contact between people or through the air. However, it may show a genetic predisposition. Therefore, common beliefs that rosacea occurs from catching a germ are not scientifically substantiated.
How does rosacea resolve on the body?
Rosacea, which can appear anywhere on the body, generally becomes noticeable on the torso, arms, and legs. Rosacea may not be completely cured, but it can be managed with treatment and lifestyle changes. Using sunscreen, choosing the right skincare products, and avoiding triggers can reduce complaints.
Is rosacea related to the liver?
There is no direct relationship with liver diseases. Since skin symptoms can also appear in some liver diseases, a joint evaluation by dermatology and internal medicine specialists may be necessary.
What is beneficial for rosacea?
Using sunscreen, regular skin cleansing, avoiding stress, and consistently using prescribed medications is beneficial for rosacea.