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Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes facial redness and sometimes whiteheads and red bumps on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Rosacea is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that can worsen over time. It can affect anyone but is most prevalent in adults ages 30-60.

Symptoms can include redness, and visible blood vessels on the surface of the skin called “telangectasia” as well as easy flushing or blushing. Some people also develop raised red bumps and pustules similar to acne.  Symptoms can wax and wane over time.  Some of the reasons for flares ups include hot or spicy foods, alcohol, temperature extremes, sunlight exposure, and stress. 

Rosacea’s impact extends beyond the skin into a person’s self-esteem and well-being.  Many rosacea patients report problems at work, in their marriage, and with meeting new people. In surveys conducted by the National Rosacea Society, 41 percent said their rosacea caused them to avoid public contact or cancel social engagements. Your dermatologist will work with you to develop a treatment plan to help reduce the physical and emotional impact of rosacea.

What Causes Rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is unknown, but it may be related to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Things that may predispose a person to rosacea include being female, having light skin, sun damage, and smoking. Rosacea can usually be diagnosed by having a dermatologist examine your skin and ask questions about your symptoms.

How do You Treat Rosacea?

Unfortunately, rosacea is a chronic condition that cannot be cured.  After talking about your condition, your dermatologist may prescribe medications for treatment.  Usually these are topical creams or lotions that go on your skin.  However, in certain situations, oral medicines such as doxycycline or minocycline are prescribed.  It’s likely you will need to stay on treatment to maintain control of the rosacea. 

Many people also find they can reduce their rosacea symptoms using mild cleansers and moisturizers, high SPF sunscreens, and avoiding the factors that trigger their flare-ups.

Additional Rosacea Resources

Links to Additional Information:

American Academy of Dermatology Rosacea Videos:

Why Iowa Dermatology Consultants?

Iowa Dermatology Consultants believes in a patient focused approach to care.  They work with patients forming an active partnership in treatment to help repair the physical and emotional damage of skin disease.

At Iowa Dermatology Consultants, all of our physicians are board-certified dermatologists. Your care provided by Dr. Snider, Dr. Smith,  or Dr. Myers is founded in knowledge and experience which exceeds that of a general practitioner.  Together they have almost 50 years of combined experience in diagnosing and treating a vast array of skin conditions.  This includes over 16,000 hours of patient care training to ensure that a board-certified dermatologist can expertly diagnosis and treat over 3000 dermatologic conditions.