What is acne rosacea and can anything be done about it?

Rosacea is a disease affecting facial skin, it is not dangerous but can get worse if it's not treated.

Usually starting with reddening of the cheeks, over time it can become worse and lead to blotching on other areas of the face or acne-like spots. Unlike acnethis type of disease ususally occurs in adults from the age of around 30. Just like acne the psychological effects can be more ruinous. There are also certain eye conditions such as redness and itchiness that have been associated with the condition.

Acne Rosacea is an embarassing condition not least beacuse it makes you look like you are embarassed!

As for what actually causes acne rosacea, no one is sure. There are certain factors that can increase the problem however, namely cold weather, alcohol and feeling embarassed. In a recent survey nearly 70 percent of rosacea sufferes said that the condition had had a serious effect on their self esteem.

This is the major problem, it may not cause any actual damage to the skin but the awareness that your skin is bright red is extremely disconcerting.

How can it be treated?

The effects of acne rosacea can vary from patient to patient so really it is up to each individual doctor to prescribe a treatment. Having said that there are various treatments that can be applied orally and topically in an attempt to weather the symptoms of rosacea. Most doctors will start off with a course of oral antibiotics and a topical lotion to start off with. With a bit of luck only the topical lotion will be needed in the future.

It's also possible to use laser treatment to remove visible blood vessels or excessive redness. In addition to this sufferers should be aware of the aformentioned lifestyle factors that may be contributing to their rosacea. It is vitally improtant to try and identify your own personal rosacea triggers. This in itself will give you the best chance of combatting the irritating disease.