Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin disease that often begins with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than other people do. With time, people who have rosacea may see permanent redness in the center of their face. Redness can slowly spread beyond the nose and cheeks to the forehead, chin, neck and chest. In addition to redness, rosacea can cause acne-like breakouts, visible blood vessels on the face, and dry, irritated eyes.

With or without treatment, rosacea is unpredictable. Many people have rosacea for years. In one study, researchers asked 48 people who had seen a dermatologist about their rosacea. More than half (52%) had rosacea for an average of 13 years. During that time, their rosacea came and went. The rest of the people (48%) had seen their rosacea clear. People who saw their rosacea clear had it for an average of 9 years.

Rosacea can be a lifelong condition. Proper treatment and skin care may ease signs and symptoms.

Myths About Rosacea

Although rosacea is common, many myths prevail. To care for rosacea, it’s important to know what is myth and what is fact. You’ll find some of the popular rosacea myths debunked here.

Myth: Rosacea Can Be Cured.
Fact: If you’ve seen ads that promise an all-natural cure, you may be wondering why doctors won’t tell you about it. Dermatologists would tell their patients if there was a cure. Today, there is no cure for rosacea. For many people, treatment can help ease the discomfort and prevent rosacea from worsening.

Myth: Drinking Causes Rosacea.
Fact: Alcohol can worsen symptoms of rosacea such as flushing. Drinking, however, does not cause rosacea.

Myth: Rosacea is Contagious.
Fact: You cannot catch rosacea from someone else. Rosacea cannot be spread through kissing, swimming in the same pool, or even having sex.

Treatments

Seeing a dermatologist for rosacea treatment has benefits. It can ease discomfort and even stop the rosacea from getting worse. Many people find that with proper treatment, others cannot even tell they have rosacea.

It is best to see a dermatologist for treatment. Some products available without a prescription may help some signs and symptoms of rosacea, but these same products can worsen other signs and symptoms.

By seeing a dermatologist you can make sure that you have rosacea, learn what subtype (or subtypes) you have, and get a proper treatment plan. Your treatment plan will include proper skin care tailored to your needs.