Reaction to Mites May Mimic Rosacea Signs
Some patients who have red scaly faces may in reality have an increased reaction to the Demodex mite rather than rosacea, according to Dr. Joseph Bikowski, clinical assistant professor of dermatology, Ohio State University.
Dr. Bikowski noted that he has treated more than 100 patients with this condition, which involved reaction to these microscopic mites that are normal inhabitants of human skin. In these cases, he reported that patients treated with a topical medication for Demodex cleared within two to four weeks and remained clear for one to two years.
"Individuals with red scaly skin may have rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or both, but another possibility is an increased reaction to Demodex," he said.
This is a quote from the NRS's Rosacea Review. If you have scales along with your regular rosacea symptoms (i.e. redness, papules, pustules, swelling) then you should investigate the possibility of seborrheic dermatitis or demodex mites contributing to your symptoms.
