Rosacea is a very common skin disease that can cause redness on your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. In some instances, rosacea symptoms can even manifest in the form of little bumps or pimples on and around the face. Although relatively common amongst adults over the age of 30, the signs of rosacea often get mislabeled as acne and the condition often goes untreated for long periods of time.
Below, you’ll find information to help you decipher your average skin irritation or acne from rosacea, as well as key signs it’s time to see the doctor.
What Causes Rosacea?
Rosacea occurs when blood vessels underneath the skin expand in response to a skin irritant or trigger. Certain foods or activities can exacerbate a person’s condition and can even cause rosacea symptoms to worsen. Some common triggers are exercise, exposure to too much sun or wind, hot weather, stress, alcohol, and spicy foods.
 |
| Rosacea manifests as redness as blood vessels underneath the skin expand. |
Doctors have also noticed that those who have fair skin and blush easily are more likely to suffer from rosacea than those that don't. There is also a hereditary aspect to the disease, as rosacea tends to run in families.
What Are the Signs of Rosacea?
It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between acne, an allergic reaction, and rosacea. However, if you begin to notice that the redness in your face remains for long periods of time or consistently returns, this may be a sign of rosacea. If your skin is reacting to irritants and you notice repeated flare-ups of your redness or bumps, this too may be a sign.
Some other key signs and symptoms of rosacea are:
- Red Blood Vessels: Underneath the redness on your cheeks, nose, and forehead, small blood vessels may be visible. This is one characteristic that is unique to rosacea and is commonly used to diagnose this disease.
- Distinct Bumps and Pimples: The bumps and pimples caused by rosacea will be limited to your face not accompanied by blackheads, an important fact to remember when trying to decipher between acne and rosacea.
- Irritated Eyes and Skin around the Eyes: Watery and irritated eyes are additional symptoms of rosacea that can eventually lead to swelling and painful itchiness of the eyes if left untreated.
If you suspect that you may be suffering from rosacea or experience any of the symptoms listed above, consult your doctor. There a variety of prescribed medications, such as Mirvaso, that are great at relieving symptoms.
It is important to speak with your doctor regarding your concerns, as the key to fighting rosacea is to diagnose and begin treating the symptoms early. Early detection of signs of rosacea will make it easier to manage this skin condition.
