Studies: new rosacea cases associated with aging, sun exposure

Recently, dermatological studies have found that the number of cases of rosacea is rising. An estimate of 16 million Americans are diagnosed with rosacea, and many more are likely awaiting diagnosis. Rosacea is one of many skin conditions associated with aging. Its characterizations include persistent redness in the face caused by dilated blood vessels underneath the surface of the skin. Although the condition is highly treatable, the long-term effects should be taken seriously to prevent worsening of the condition.

Signature symptoms of rosacea

Apart from signature facial redness, common symptoms include small bumps and pus-filled spots similar to acne. In fact, the full medical name for rosacea is acne rosacie, a sister disease to the traditional form of acne. Very often, rosacea is mistaken for sunburn because the redness can be hard to distinguish. A partial reason of increasing cases is that more people are realizing that it is actually a skin condition. It is not a result of excess sun exposure.

Understanding root causes

Rosacea often runs in families. However, there is not much understanding surrounding its exact causes. Experts believe the condition is a result of blood vessel abnormalities, which cause vessels near the skin to dilate and become red. Some research indicates that the cause of the condition is a high number of skin peptides that prompt an immunological response in the skin. There are also many triggers, such as spicy foods, hot weather, stress, caffeine, and even harsh skin products, that cause flare-ups in redness.

Looking for treatment

There are many different treatment methods that your dermatologist can prescribe for you, most of which are topical and have limited side effects. Topical medications include creams and ointments designed to reduce redness. In more serious cases, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin can be available for more permanent relief. Some dermatologists also offer laser treatments designed to reduce the abrasion of blood vessels.

If you are recently developing facial redness that doesn’t seem to be fading like a sunburn, you are far from alone. Rosacea is a common skin disease and one with a strong outlook for treatment methods, but it’s important to consult your dermatologist to obtain treatment that can prevent the condition from escalating and spreading across your face.

Jennifer Dawson

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