1. What is Rosacea ?
Rosacea (said rose-ay-shah) is a potentially progressive neurovascular disorder that generally affects the facial skin and eyes. The most common symptoms include facial redness and inflammation across the flushing zone – usually the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead ; visibly dilated blood vessels, facial swelling and burning sensations, and inflammatory papules and pustules.
Rosacea can develop gradually as mild episodes of facial blushing or flushing which, over time, may lead to a permanently red face.
Ocular rosacea can affect both the eye surface and eyelid. Symptoms can include redness, dry eyes, foreign body sensations, sensitivity of the eye surface, burning sensations and eyelid symptoms such as chalazia, styes, redness, crusting and loss of eyelashes.
A panel of experts have agreed on a standard classification system for Rosacea. This system is a brief text that is not intended to be exhaustive, but is a place to start.
“Rosacea is a chronic cutaneous disorder, primarily of the central face. It is often characterized by remission and exacerbation and it encompasses various combinations of such cutaneous signs as flush, erythema, telangiectasias, edema, papules, pustules, ocular lesions, and rhinophyma. Primary features considered as necessary for diagnosis include flushing, erythema, papules, pustules, and telangiectasias. A variety of secondary features are listed that may be absent or present as a single finding or in any combination.”
Common Misspellings: roacea, rosae, rocase, rocacea, roace, roscea, rosacia.
1.1 Are there different types of Rosacea ?
The panel of Rosacea experts agreed on the following broad, non exclusive text (i.e. there may be other factors and types that come into play).
“The system divides rosacea into four subtypes: erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous, and ocular. As presently worded, papulopustular rosacea is noted as often being observed following or with erythematotelangiectatic disease and phymatous rosacea as following or occurring together with either erythematotelangiectatic or papulopustular rosacea. However, Dr. Wilkin emphasized that while those descriptions are consistent with common concepts about rosacea natural history, they are provisional and subject to change.”
“In its current iteration, the classification system excludes rosacea fulminans, steroid-induced acneiform eruptions, and perioral dermatitis without rosacea signs from the diagnosis of rosacea.”
1.2 What is the difference between acne and rosacea ?
As rosacea is a neurovascular disorder it affects the flushing zone.
Is is common that Rosacea does not present with blackheads that are seen with Acne Vulgaris. Also the age of onset, and the location of redness is a clue. Rosacea is commonly an adult disease, and is generally restricted to the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. It can coexist with acne vulgaris.
Some rosacea sufferers have a significant acne component in their symptoms so it can be easily confused with acne vulgaris. The papules and pustules of rosacea tend to be less follicular in origin.
Rosacea will probably have an underlying redness that is related to flushing and thus looks different to acne vulgaris. Acne sufferers normally do not have the accompanying redness.
Rosacea usually begins with flushing, leading to persistent redness.
As both conditions are inflammatory, the treatment for rosacea and acne vulgaris can be somewhat similar, but some of the acne vulgaris regimes are too harsh for rosacea affected skin and can severely aggravate the condition.
Rosacea sufferers are cautioned against using common acne treatments such as alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic and lactic acids), topical retinoids (such as tretinoin, Retin-A Micro, Avita, Differin), benzoyl peroxide, topical azelaic acid, triclosan, acne peels, chemical peels. Additionally the caution extends to topical exfoliants, toners, astringents and alcohol containing products.
1.3 What is the difference between Rosacea and Seborrheic Dermatitis ?
Seborrheic Dermatitis and Rosacea are closely related, they both involve inflammation of the oil glands. Rosacea also involves a vascular component causing flushing and broken blood vessels.
Seborrheic Dermatitis may involve the presence of somewhat greasy flaking involving the T zone, crusts, scales, itching and occasionally burning, and may also be found on the scalp, ears and torso. It does not usually involve red bumps as in Rosacea.
The T zone is the area shaped like a `T’ composed of your forehead, nose and around your mouth.
Just to confuse things further, the two conditions are often seen together. See also: seb derm, elidel and protopic : a warning.
1.4 What causes Rosacea ?
There are a few theories, but none are yet conclusive. Popular theories include rosacea being caused by how frequently we flush and how our blood vessels cope with this flushing ; an over active inflammatory response to some unknown pathogen.
The fact that rosacea’s cause is unknown thankfully hasn’t stopped the development of some excellent treatment regimes.
1.5 How does rosacea progress ?
“Rosacea normally progresses in the same generalised fashion, frequent dilation of facial blood vessels leads to vascular hyper-responsiveness
and structural damage.”
Rosacea experts talk about rosacea symptoms appearing in 4 stages. Over time rosacea can progress from one stage to the next.
From Dr. J Wilkin:
“Most textbooks and literature citations characterize rosacea as a disease that gradually evolves from early to later subtypes. However, there is not conclusive evidence to substantiate that course and we want to know if it really occurs. Nevertheless, the individual features within a subtype can get worse, so early treatment is advocated, even if there is not progression from one stage to the next,”
2. How can Rosacea be treated ?
The best answer is “working with the support of your registered health professional”. There are medications available that control the redness and reduce the number of papules and pustules associated with rosacea.
Current run-of-the-mill treatment might include oral antibiotics and topical metronidazole. One study showed that the use of topical metronidazole alone can help some sufferers to reduce rosacea flare-ups once the rosacea is brought under control.
For those sufferers that do not benefit from the metronidazole based treatments, there are many other options. Quite a few treatments options are often discussed on the rosacea-support email group.
Experts agree that a gentle cleansing regime is very important. Avoiding chemicals that aggravate the rosacea, but will clean and moisturise the skin is a step in the right direction. See also: mild cleanser is important.
As the sun is a strong trigger for many rosacea sufferers, a good non-irritating sunscreen used daily is very important. For those who react badly to chemical sunscreens, a physical sunscreen may be more suitable. Physical sunscreens rely on the reflective properties of the main ingredients (rather than the ability of some chemicals to absorb the sun’s energy). The most common physical sunscreens are based on zinc oxide or titatinium dioxide.
The vitamin A derivative isotretinoin (known as Accutane or Roaccutane), has been shown to be effective against severe papopustular rosacea. It works by inhibiting sebaceous gland function and physically shrinking the glands. It also has potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal to treat resistant rosacea. At low doses, accutane has also been shown to reduce other symptoms such as facial burning and redness. Accutane is a strong drug, and even at the low doses found beneficial to rosacea, should be used under strict supervision of your doctor.
Low does accutane may be more suitable than the regular dose, as there are less side effects and lesser chance of aggravating redness. See also dramatic results with low dose accutane and focus on low-dose accutane.
The mixed light pulse laser – Photoderm is showing promise as a treatment for the vascular component of rosacea. It works by targeting facial microvessels that are damaged.
One treatment that has been shown to help some is Rosacea-LTD III. It is the third generation of topical mineral salt based treatment. The minerals shrink facial vessels as well as reduce papules and pustules. More information is available at http://www.rosacea-ltd.com
For those wanting to treat the flushing side of their rosacea, 2 drugs are worth investigating. Monoxidine and Clonodine are 2 anti-hypertensives that you could look at with your doctor.
From a subjective view of the rosacea-support list members it would appear that one person’s treatment does not necessarily suit another, so your mileage may vary with any recommended treatment. Experiment a little and find what helps you. Depending on the stage of your rosacea, some treatments may be aggravating, while for others the same treatment may not cause problems. Every rosacea patient is unique and needs individual treatment.
Whatever path you choose, the support of a doctor or dermatologist that is willing to work with you will be very important, so shop around until you
are happy with your health professional.
2.1 What about steroids ?
Steroids have long been prescribed for rosacea because of their perceived quick relief. Milder (1% hydrocortisone) over the counter preparations are also popular as they are thought to be safer than the prescription strength treatment.
It is worth bearing in mind the following warnings:
over the counter steroids can cause steroid induced rosacea.
“After observation of long-term facial application of even low-dose corticosteroids, we have see many adults and children with a rosacea diathesis in whom severe burning and itching develop, along with bright red papules and nodules.This may occur after long-term application of even low-potency topical corticosteroids.
Application of topical corticosteroids causes immediate vasoconstriction and reduces the redness seen in rosacea and many other skin conditions. However, when patients discontinue usage of the topical corticosteroid, symptoms immediately reappear, and the symptoms are often much worse than those seen in the original condition.”
2.2 Can you be cured of Rosacea ?
Perhaps not cured in the sense of cured of a cold, but you can reduced your symptoms to a manageable level. There are plenty of treatment options out there, you may just need to experiment with a few.
3.3 Are there any Books about Rosacea I should read ?
There are very few books about Rosacea. In the last year of so there has been a couple of `self help’ books written about rosacea. You can find a
review of a couple of these at http://rosacea-support.org/book-reviews
4. Are there any non-profit organisations devoted to Rosacea ?
The National Rosacea Society is a non profit organisation set up to provide information about Rosacea. You can find them at http://www.rosacea.org/ They publish newsletters online as well as conduct surveys about rosacea sufferers. Also they make published information available to sufferers via regular mail. The National Rosacea Society are an introductory organisation that are a good first point of contact for information. In the past the NRS has awarded grants for 37 studies into rosacea.
4.1 Are there any support groups related to Rosacea ?
There is an email support group that you can subscribe to. This email group is free and unmoderated. Currently there are about 7000 users. To find out more information about the list, visit http://rosacea-support.org or go straight to the email hosting page at http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/rosacea-support/
Rosacea Reading Glossary
As you read more about Rosacea, you might come across lots of terms that are new to you. Below is a short list of some of the terms you might come across.
accutane: a powerful vitman A derivate that was originally prescribed for severe acne vulgaris. Has been used effectively for rosacea as well. Also known as roaccutane. for more info http://www.rocheusa.com/products/accutane/. See also: focus on low-dose accutane
aczone: (dapsone) a topical treament for acne vulgaris.
ascomycin: a new macrolactam immunomodulator showing some promise for inflammatory skin disorders.
azelaic acid: the active ingredient in finacea and other rosacea treatments.
blepharitis: inflamation and crusting of the eyelid.
boswellia: also known as boswellin or “Indian frankincense,” comes from the Boswellia serrata tree that grows in the dry hills of India. Known the anti-inflammatory properties of the tree bark’s gummy resin, called salai guggal.
cutaneous: pertaining to the skin.
demodex mites: (demodex folliculorum and demodex brevis): microscopic mites that lives in the skin. Many theories relate the involvement of demodex mites to rosacea, but so far after many years of research a causative link has not been found. See also demodex mites
DMSO: (dimethyl sulfoxide) a solvent approved by the FDA for organ transplant preservation and interstitial cystitis (a bladder disease).
chalazion: a lump on the eyelid that is caused by a clogged duct of one or more of the meibomian glands on the eyelid.
clonidine: an anti-hypertensive, which works by controlling nerve impulses along certain nerve pathways. As a result, it relaxes blood vessels so that blood passes through them more easily.
clarithromycin: a macrolide antibiotic used to treat tonsillitis and other bacterial infections. Clarithromycin is available under several brandnames for example Biaxin, Biaxin XL and Klacid.
conjunctivitis: inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin transparent lining in the front of the eyeballs and eyelids).
cutanix: makers of the Dramatic Relief Multi-Action Skin Therapy targetted for eczema and rosacea sufferers
dapsone: sulphone antibiotic medication available for many years to treat leprosy. also used in a topical (aczone) to treat acne.
diflucan: (fluconazole) is used to treat fungal infections, including yeast infections of the vagina, mouth, throat, esophagus, abdomen, lungs, blood, and other organs.
diroseal: (Avene Eau Thermale Diroseal Treatment Cream) is a anti-redness cream containing Retinaldehyde and Dextran Sulfate. See also diroseal now available in australia.
DRL: dramatic relief lotion, now known as Dramatic Relief Multi-Action Skin Therapy, topical product for rosacea and eczema from Cutanix.
dry eye: a condition brought about by abnormal production in the quantity or quality of tears.
edema: presence of abnormally large amounts of fluid in the intercellular tissue spaces of the body, especially wrt subcutaneous tissues.
elidel: (pimecrolimus) a topical treatment for atopic dermatitis and erythrotelangiectatic, papulopustular, and edematous rosacea. See also: seb derm, elidel and protopic : a warning.
epifacial: another term referring to a full face treatment using photoderm.
epilight: a treatment very similar to photoderm, originally intended for hair removal. differs by using different filters to photoderm. For more information see http://www.skinandhealth.com
epitan: a drug development company, owners of Melanotan and EPT1647, a synthetic peptide which stimulates the body to make eumelanin, the dark pigment of the skin.
erythema: inflammatory redness of the skin.
erythematotelangiectatic: having symptoms of both erythema and telangiectasias
Ester-C: a form of vitamin C that contains both ascorbic acid and metabolites.
ESB: Endoscopic Sympathetic Block, clamps used to block the transmission of the neural impulses in the sympathetic chain. Is considered a reversible procedure. See http://privatix.magenta.net
ETS: Endoscopic Transthoracic Sympathectomy (or endoscopic transthoracic sympathicotomy) a procedure where a surgeon excises the major sympathetic nerves that supply the hands, neck and face. Main indications for ETS are blushing and hyperhidrosis. One place for more information: http://www.sweaty-palms.com/ets.htm
finacea: azelaic acid 15%, a topical treatment for rosacea, proven to reduce the number of inflammatory papules and pustules associated with rosacea. See Also focus on finacea (azelaic acid 15%).
fotofacial: a treatment regime using photoderm pioneered by Dr. Patrick Bitter Jnr., for more information, see http://www.fotofacial.com
grape seed extract: a source of an ntioxidants bioflavanoid known as proanthocyanidins (PCO bioflavanoids)
Helicobacter pylori: bacteria that live in the cell lining of the stomach. Part of the folklore of rosacea is that it is caused by H. pylori. This theory is confused by the fact that treating h. pylori also has some benefit for rosacea symptoms. So far no causative link between h.pylori and rosacea has not been found.
hyperhidrosis: a disorder characterized by excessive sweating caused by an overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system of the sweat glands.
hypertrophy: the enlargement or overgrowth of an organ or part due to an increase in size of its constituent cells.
hyperemia: abnormally increased blood flow
Intendis: the manufacturers of finacea.
IPL: Intense Pulse Light, a description of the technology used in the family of machines made by ESC. For more information, see http://www.skinandhealth.com
isotretinoin: the a vitamin-A derivative that is the active ingredient in accutane (also known as roaccutane). See also focus on low-dose accutane
iontophoresis: therapy that uses a local electric current to introduce the ions of a ionic therapeutic agents through the skin.
keratitis: infection or inflammation of the cornea of the eye.
ketoconozole: the active antifungal ingredient in nizoral, helpful for seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
klaron: a topical treatment containing sodium sulfacetamide.
lumenis: a laser manufacturer, responsible for the IPL range of machines such as Vasculight, Quantum and Lumenis One.
lupus: an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation in various parts of the body such as the skin, joints and kidneys. Skin flushing is an important symptom of lupus.
melanotan: a brand name for a drug developed by epitan which stimulates the body to make eumelanin, the dark pigment of the skin.
metrolotion: (metronidazole 0.75%), a topical treatment for rosacea, closely related to metrogel and metrocream.
metrogel: a 0.75% metranidazole treatment. For more information http://www.metrogel.com/aboutmetrogel/ See also metrogel.
metrocream: (metronidazole 0.75%), a topical treatment for rosacea, closely related to metrogel and metrolotion.
metronidazole: a topical treatment for rosacea. Has been found by some to effective against rosacea. Has a yet to be understood anti-inflammatory action. Is the active ingredient in metrogel, metrocream, metrolotion, rozex and noritate. See also focus on metronidazole.
meibomitis: inflammation of the oil producing meibomian glands of the eye.
MSM: (methylsulfonylmethane) a derivative of DMSO.
Multilight: a member of the Intense Pulsed Light family, along with the photoderm machine. For more information see http://www.skinandhealth.com Can also be used for hair removal.
naturopathic: a treatment philosophy that avoids use of pharmaceutical medication and surgery in favor of natural alternatives
noritate: a 1% metronidazole treatment. for more info http://www.dermik.com/prod/noritate/Noritate.jsp
novacet: a topical treatment containing sodium sulfacetamide.
ocular: of the eye.
oracea: a new variant of periostat, targetted for inflammatory skin conditions like acne and rosacea.
papulopustular: having symptoms of both papules and pustules.
papule: a small, solid, elevated skin lesion, less than 0.5cm in diameter.
perioral dermatitis: perioral refers to the area around the mouth, and dermatitis indicates redness of the skin. In addition to redness, there are usually small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling.
periostat: (doxycycline hyclate) originally developed to combat periodontal disease, also used for its anti-inflammatory properties for acne and rosacea.
photoderm: an intense light source, fired at the facial skin to reduce flushing associated with rosacea. a new treatment for rosacea that is producing some exciting results. For more information see http://www.skinandhealth.com
photofacial: a treatment regime using photoderm, pioneered by Dr. Patrick Bitter Snr.
photorejuvenation: a broad term used describe Intense Pulsed Light treatments. photorejuvenation treatments are aimed at stimulating collagen formulation.
phymatous: having symptoms of abnormal growth, as found in rhinophyma.
pimecrolimus: the active ingredient in elidel, a topical treatment for atopic dermatitis and erythrotelangiectatic, papulopustular, and edematous rosacea. Pimecrolimus, is derived from ascomycin, a natural substance produced by the fungus Streptomyces hygroscopicus var. ascomyceticus. Pimecrolimus selectively blocks the production and release of cytokines from T-cells. These cytokines in the skin cause the inflammation, redness and itching associated with eczema.
plexion: a cleanser from Medicis containing sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur. It is indicated in the topical control of acne vulgaris, acne rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis, for those patients without sensitivities to sulfonamides or sulfur. The exact mode of action of sulfur in the treatment of acne is unknown, but it has been reported that it inhibits the growth of Propionibacterium acnes and the formation of free fatty acids.
protopic: a topical treatment for rosacea containing tacrolimus.
pustule: a vesicle filled with cloudy fluid, such as pus, often associated with a hair follicle but can exist independently.
pycnogenol: an antioxidant extracted from the bark of the French maritime pine (Pinus maritima) and the Canadian Spruce (Tsuga canadensis)
Quadrinone: the patented active ingredient in Cutanix Dramatic Relief
Quantam SR: a member of the Intense Pulsed Light family, along with the photoderm machine. For more information see http://www.skinandhealth.com
rhinophyma: abnormal growth of the soft tissue of nose, caused by sebaceous gland hypertrophy and hyperplasia (increased growth and number of sebaceous glands).
roaccutane: a powerful vitman A derivate that was originally prescribed for severe acne vulgaris. Has been used effectively for rosacea as well. Also known as accutane. for more info http://www.roaccutane.com.au. See also focus on low-dose accutane
rosacea fulminans: a rare form of rosacea that appears very quickly.
rosac cream: a topical preparation from Stiefel Laboratories that contains sodium sulfacetamide 10% and sulfur 5% cream with sunscreens.
rosaliac: a treatment containing vitamin CG (ascorbyl glucoside, a slow-release form of vitamin C); xanthine, a caffeine derivative that works as a vasoconstrictor; and vitamin B3, which acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Manufactured by La Roche-Posay.
rosanil: a cleanser from Galderma containing sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur. It is indicated in the topical control of acne vulgaris, acne rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis, for those patients without sensitivities to sulfonamides or sulfur.
rosula: a sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur based topical treatment used in the treatment of acne, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis
rozex: 0.75% metronidazole based treatment also known as metrogel. for more info http://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/r/rozexgel.htm
rosacea-ltd: a non-prescription topical treatment for rosacea, see http://www.rosacea-ltd.com
rosacure: an anti-redness and moisturizing face cream. Originates from Italy, where it is called Synchrorose. Contains Silymarin (Lady’s Thistle Extract) which is a bioflavonoid, and hyaluronic acid which provides hydration to the skin, are all contained in an oleosome delivery system.
sansrosa: a company producing treatments for inflammatory skin diseases. One such product is SR101 or SR110 a rosacea anti-redness cream.
seborrheic dermatitis: an inflamatory skin condition, associated with itchy flaking skin. See also:seb derm, elidel and protopic : a warning.
sebaceous gland: a gland often associated with a hair follicle, that produces sebum.
sodium sulfacetamide: a topical treatment used for acne, dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
stromectol: (ivermectin) a highly active broad-spectrum anti-parasitic agents used to treat infections caused by roundworms, threadworms, and other parasites.
stye: inflammation of an eyelash follicle on the edge of the eyelid.
subcutaneous: under the skin.
tacrolimus: the active ingredient in protopic, a topical treatment for atopic dermatitus and steroid induced rosacea.
telangiectasias: damaged micro blood vessels, often visible on the surface of the skin.
tetracycline: an antibiotic often prescribed for rosacea.
V-beam: the fifth generation (hence roman 5=V) of the pulse dye laser. for more information, see http://www.vbeamlaser.com
vascular: of the blood vessels.
vasculight: a IPL+laser machine that can be used to give mixed wavelength and fixed wavelength treatments. Can target large and deep blood vessels. For more information see http://www.skinandhealth.com
VEGF: vascular endothelial growth factor, one of the number of genes associated with angiogenesis.
versapulse: a type of laser, for more information, see http://www.coherentinc.com
wobenzyme N: (wobenzym) a multi-enzyme supplement.
YAG laser: (yttrium aluminum garnet, uses a Neodymium (Nd) ion) thought to be good for treating deep and large blood vessels esp. in leg veins.
zileuton: (zyflo) a treatment originally developed for asthma that was targetted to also be useful to treat acne and subsequently rosacea.
ZincO: (ZincO Cream) a micro-fine zinc oxide dimethicone sunscreen formulated by Linda Sy to be used by rosacea sufferers.
zithromax: (azithromycin) is in a class of drugs called macrolide antibiotics, used to treat many types of bacterial infections.
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129 Comments over 3 pages ↓
Hi gaurang,
I have collected a series of articles related to accutane and rosacea. Hope they prove useful to you.
davidp.
Hi there David, thanks for your very useful website.
), as a child I had bouts of eczema an urticaria on my thighs , elbows when I was under stress. I also have mild eczemaand allergies to many things like pollen, feathers and dustmites. I’m now 31 years old and it looks like those red papules on my face could either be related to eczema or rosacea. I went to see a GP in Uk ( where I currently live) , looking at my spots she said it could either be eczema or rosacea but looking at the shape of the papules it is more rosacea 
However ,she dis point out that I don’t have couperosis/ red flushing on my skin nor do I have papules on my nose or chin, just on my cheekbones. Just before seeing her, I had taken hydrocortisone and my skin was inflamed. She advised to stop hydrocortisone and use Rosex cream instead. I have been doing so for 2 days now ,the papules seem smaller but I still have this burning sensation. How can I be sure to have rosacea? Even the Gp was confused therefore she gave me treatment for rosacea with Rozex ( no antibiotics though) and it seems to be receding a little bit. How long does it take for Rosex to eliminate those papules for good?I feel quite depressed right now, Iam becoming really paranoid with my skin, not going out in the sun, scared to put any make up on 
I have strange papules on my face which appeared 2 weeks ago after a massive allergic reaction to a new foundation. I have atopic skin, was born with the skin condition ichtyosis( I’m shedding skin like a snake
Also that Gp initially wanted to give me Rozex gel but I asked her not to after Reading articles on your website. Is Rozex gel more prone to trigger flareups in comparison to Rozex cream? Sorry for bombarding you with all these questions, I hope someone can help. Many thanks in advance. Marianne;p
Hi Marianne,
I think the support of a Dr. and even a dermatologist if you can get a referral, is going to be really important as you work through your current symptoms. They should be able to give a proper answer to your questions.
Metronidazole treatments can take several weeks to show relief in symptoms. Knowing whether you will be sensitive to a cream as opposed to a gel formulation is very difficult to say as individuals vary. If you can get samples that might help you find out more quickly.
all the best,
davidp.
Dear David,
Thanks for your reply. I went to see another GP yesterday as I was still swollen and to get a second opinion.The GP I saw said she knew more about dermatology and that my case was difficult: not an eczema rash but not typical roseacea as I have no flushing whatsoever, just small papules and pustules all over the cheekbone area and the pustule are just in one specific area. I also have blackheads which she said shoud not happen in normal roseacea conditions.
I said to her that I have had this condition for 2 weeks now and that it started as an allegic reaction to some foundation I applied and that I presume if it was an allergy or normal acne it should have been cleared in over 2 weeks. She said my case was tricky and the best thing was to apply Rozex less often ( cream composition) but to continue with Rozex for one week as it looks like an infection ( I had one white pustule showing up yesteday).
I am even more confused especially since GP’s here seem not able to give any clear diagnosis.
She also said if that condition carried on I would need to go back to a GP and be referred to a proper dermatologist. I am still completely in the lurch…
Is that normal to have acne like pustules in Rosacea and if so is it dangerous to pop them?
In the meantime thanks ever so much for your very informative website which does provide support and and answers to many questions regarding the rosacea condition. Mariannex
I am 44 years old and have been diagnosed with acne rosacea for 1 month. I figured it was rosacea for a while but had it confirmed. My eyes were affected also, but the doctor did not prescribe anything for them yet. My face felt tight, my skin was thickening, flakey, and bumpy (no longer smooth), with pimple like things that were itchy or burned, very red and veins showing through.
I have sensitive skin which tends to be on the dryer side and I have a medium tone to my skin (don’t burn easy in the sun but will burn).
In the beginning the burning/itching was so bad that it felt like nothing was helping. Try something and try to stick with it for a bit.
The doctor prescribed metro gel. I did not see any results from that for 3 weeks. I started taking acidophilus, omega 3 and drinking cranberry juice. (I try to stay away from the sun, caffeine and acidic foods (ie orange juice). When I feel itching or flushing coming on, I spray my face with avene thermal spring water.
As a cleanser, I am using bioderma sensibo h2o. I have found that the moisturizers by bioderma work well for me. To cover it up, I am using almay truly lasting colour with spf 15 (if my skin is a bit dry, I blend it with my moisturizer when applying it. I am having no reaction now that the iching /burning has mostly left my skin (nothing worked when I had that).
I hope that some of this information helps you. Finally with the foundation as a cover up, I do not mind going out in public!
Good Luck
I am 28 years old Asian and have been suffering from acne since college. One week before monthly menstruation large pimples usually appear all over my face especially on my nose. What bothers me is that the pimple scars on my nose are gone but there are still small, soft lumps that were caused by the pimples and there are also tiny red veins showing through. I usually apply concealer to conceal the veins. But it can’t conceal the lumps. Are these lumps are somewhat they call keloid acne scars or is this a symptom of rosacea? i don’t feel any inflammations or burning sensations on my face. But my T-zone is very oily. Please help me find out.
Thanks!
Just to share my experiences – because this seems one of the better websites I’ve found.
1) agree everyone is different. Male, now mid-fifties. There is not enough male related info around on the web.
2) mine started as hard spots(seemingly blocked pores, white cores) on cheek bones 15 years ago. If scratched – pulled out with tweezers they would bleed – it was months before I went to a doctor who diagnosed Rosacea – and prescribed OxyTetracline 250mg * 2 – twice a day. Oh and you’ll probably be on this for life. After a few weeks the spots cleared up. And I decided to halve the oxy-tet dose.
3) was also told that my very high alcohol consumption, and sunlight were likely causes. More later. I did some web research then, and come back every few years to see if anything changes.
4) often I go months with no symptoms – then a flare up. Not classical redness at all. Rarely an old style hard-plug spot on the cheek. The ‘sites’ are random. These days a flare is usually 1 to 3 spots on the nose that start by looking like classical white-head acne but will inevitably bleed at some stage – as soon as they appear I go back to full oxy-tet dose and they’ll clear up within 2 weeks max. Sometimes within 3-4 days. And ok confession I don’t do any of these facial cleaning routines. Doctor initially advised to avoid traditional Acne cleansers as they aggravate the condition – I agree they do.
5) I’d like to add to the debate by the strongest correlation I have – STRESS – when it first started 15 years ago I was in middle of messy divorce. The most recent flare highly correlates with another family stress. But that doesn’t explain all.
6) At long last I’ve decided to start a food diary, as I also suspect there is a correlation with some rarer and unusual foods.
7) For me there is no apparent correlation with Alcohol(lots of wine and beer, years ago I suspected there was a correlation with ‘spirits’ so never touch them now). Or am I simply ‘in denial’?
Nor do I see a correlation with Sunlight, ok this is the UK, but I am out in all weathers walking dog and I holiday in sunnier climes – cannot never remember a flare on holiday – which maybe reinforces the STRESS correlation?
Hi,
I am new to the forum and new to rosacea. I am 41 and started early menopause at 38. I was diagnosed with rosacea but I am curious about something. When I touch my chin the redness will go back to normal skin color. Has anyone else experienced this?
I mainly have it on my chin and nose (with pimples that won’t go away) and some redness on my lower cheeks with burning/tightness on my right cheek.
I have gotten lots of advice from this sight. I am going to get a second opinion from another dermatologist. I always think it is better to see more then one doctor.
Thanks,
Theresa
Hi Theresa,
My rosacea also started about a year ago and I am also perimenopause. I have been officially diagnosed with rosacea but will can not get into see another dermatologist until May 2011 for a second opinion. I have broken veins in the cheeks, redness, papules (pimple like things), thickening of skin at times and itching (which not too many people complain about). The metrogel worked well with the pimple like things and took the severe bright redness out of my cheeks, as well as, took away the itch. I have switched to metrocream as I also suffer from sensitve dry skin. It does not help much. I have used cortisone cream for 2 or 3 days when nothing else helps (as this is bad I know). It concerns me about the veins as they are more permanent and they come up very quickly for me.
I have found a great foundation and now nobody hardly notices, which makes me feel better. I have been very frustrated and have stopped all prescription meds at the moment. I recently purchased Jamienson vitamin e cream (which stung the first few times I applied it) and am only using it with zinc oxide (penetan cream). It seems to be helping. LOL. Good Luck. It looks like there are no miracle answers.
Kim
Hi Theresa,
This article covers many of my symptons and may help you.
http://www.rosacea-research.org/pdfs/classystem.pdf
Again good luck
Kim
Hi again Kim,
Thanks so much for your response. It really helps knowing that there is a support group such as this.
I am going to try a few new things as well, I will post these after I have given them time to work. I am also looking into IPL therapy (I have seen before and after pictures and the results look good). If this is something I do I will also post the results of these. I have used metrocream in the past and found it didn’t work for me. I also had a bad reaction to tea tree oil. I have itchiness as well and was told that this was because of the menopause.
Lots of luck to you and thanks again for all the advice and the article.
Theresa
I have been having a problem with excessive sweating for about 10 years. My most recent doctor, an internist, believes it is from my rosacea. No suggestions on any treatments though. This has effected my life a lot. Showers, any kind of exertion (just vacuuming) sets it off. Has gotten to wear I have to carry a towel with me when ever I leave the house. Can you suggest any treatments for this. Thanks, Sandy
Hi David,
Im 16 and I’ve got rosacea.I’ve observed redness on my nose along with pustules which come and go.This has been going for more than 1 year.My first dermatologist advised me to use metronidazole gel along with Benzoyl Peroxide.The second one told me this was rosacea and I should continue with metronidazole and apply adapalene gel instead of Pernox.
What I wanted to ask was if this pustule formation would ever stop.Will my nose remain red like this forever?I worry it might change the shape of my nose and make it look ugly.It already looks a little bumpy.Will they ever heal?I mean,Bill Clinton looks fine now!
And Im just a teenage presently!
I don’t mind some redness but the pustules irritate me.Is there a possibility that the pustules will leave me?
I really feel like crying when i look at my nose’s condition
Please help.
Thanks.
Hello Akash,
In my experience if you can reduce the reason for flushing then you can reduce inflammation and the papules and pustules will go away. I found a gentle skin cleasing and moisturizing regime, use a physical sunscreen everyday – these proved to be important steps for me.
all the best,
davidp.
Hey David,
I’ve been applying the adapalene gel and it has really reduced the pustules i had
Now its almost fine.I wanted to ask you,when these pustules and papules heal,they generally leave behind these marks.Are they permanent or do they eventually fade away.That has been another cause of concern for me and my family.They are pretty much visible in pictures and even from a distance.Hope they do.
I’ve also been using sunscreen daily before i go out in the sun.Thanks for the advice.Hope it works.
Thanks a lot
Akash
One more thing…I’ve learnt that this disease is incurable.Hows your rosacea going?i mean,do you still have a red nose?and all that irritating stuff?if my rosacea has started acting from this age and has already ruined my teenage days,does that mean that its going to trouble me for the rest of my life?Im treating it.You think i will be able to get it under control?Im just worried when i think about the future.Its just that theres absolutely no one who can answer these questions for me!cos there is NOT A SINGLE person in my school who’s got rosacea.Maybe because its common in Caucasians which im not.
Still thanks
Akhil
@Akash
I know it’s sometimes hard to have a positive outlook on your situation, But I think of it this way. We’re in a time where treatments are constantly being developed and released, and the next 2-5 years may yield some actual progress. Just think of it this way, if you were a sufferer even 15 years ago there wasn’t much help, we now have genetic sequencing for a possible cure on the horizon and the internet for an endless wealth of info.
My advice to you is to try some skin care products that don’t make you flare up, change your diet for the better by adding more oily fish and skin friendly foods or supplements.
I find rozex cream and a handfull of face cosmetics help me out no end
hey!
Yeah you’re right.Im lucky enough.
One more question.Before going to school,i put on some sunscreen as i was asked to.But when i get back home i find that the spots on my nose are a little more red than before.Can i take any more precautions?for how long does the effect of a sunscreen last?i think i should put on some more in school,right?i go out to play a lot in school too.and its pretty hot these days.
Please suggest something.
Thanks
Akash
@akash
The general rule with sunscreens is to apply every few hours,say 4-5. You can buy all day sunscreens but from what I’ve read your better off applying twice a day atleast. Your best bet is to avoid the sun or at very least wear a hat. The other option would be to use a moisturiser with a 15-30 spf for your skin, then use a broad spectrum sunscreen no less than 30spf on your nose. Garnier do a sunscreen stick, like a lip balm that you can apply to your nose etc.
Some prescription rosacea treatments advise you to avoid strong sunlight, have you been to the doctor yet?
@andy
Yes I think i should do that only.i apply sunscreen before leaving for school.Then i have my p.e class in which i go out to play.So just as a precautionary measure,I apply a little more.But its can never be 100% effective,can it?
But i can’t help it.Can’t turn off the sun :p
I have a sunscreen which is SPF 26.Is it enough?
Okay i’ll look for the sunscreen stick.It would be easier to apply,right?
Yes i visited a doctor.He said that I should avoid too much sun exposure.I try my best.I’ll keep doing it.
Im taking Vitamin-C tablets too.Do you think it helps even a little?
I have to say,when i don’t face the sun for about 3-4 hours,the redness reduces.The sun causes them to flare up,right?
@akash
Has your doctor diagnosed rosacea? Are you taking any perscription medication for it?
With sunscreens if you use a barrier/sunblock type cream with an spf 0f around 30 it should last all day, it acts as a physical barrier to the suns rays. Chemical creams that you re apply every few hours get absorbed. It’s generally recommended that you use a sunscreen no less than spf15 for most people, 30 is what you should be using when out in the sun for a long time. The sunscreen stick is handy to put in your pocket to top up if your out and don’t want to carry around a bottle, good for the nose
No, creams aren’t 100% but alot of that depends on how much you put on and how many times you re apply it as to how effective it is, look at it this way when your older you should have smooth wrinkle free skin.
In relation to vitamin c, I can’t see it doing any harm,but a good balanced diet rich in nuts, oily fish, veg and fruit should cover you. If like me when I was at school your not a fan of veg salmon etc the best thing I can recommend is a fish oil capsule and a multivitamin.
In terms of foods that you should probably consider..blueberries are rich in bioflavanoids that strengthen blood vessels
Kiwi fruit is higher in vit c than oranges and has ample levels of vitamin e and potassium
Salmon/mackerel/tuna
Good for essentialfatty acids (makes you skin smoother and supple)
Walnuts,brazilnuts,almonds
Olive oil
Yes.He diagnosed rosacea.
I apply Metrogel and adapalene gel daily.Plus i take Vitamin C tablets daily.
Im using sunscreen daily.Hope its helping.It is i think because i don’t have pustules that often now.
I guess i’ll go on a vitamin C rich diet then.It must help.
I wanted to ask something.Will my rosacea get worse with age?even though im treating it now?sometimes i get horribly depressed when i look at my nose.its not THAT red but it has those elevated papules which are red.
Do you think it will ever heal?if not heal,is it possible that the redness will fade away a little in the future?
Its winter time and i have to take bath in warm water.I try to make it as cold as possible.Is there any alternative option?same is with milk and other food stuff.
Please reply.
Thanks
Akash
I have SUFFERED with for years without a solution from my doctor. He gave a diagnosis but not any treatment. I have been diagnosed with Rosecea on my nose – no pustules really to speak about – an odd one here and there – just red and swollen and a permanent scab on the top of the tip of my nose. My nose goes through periods where it is very sensitive to warm water (shower or bath). It is very red and painful to the touch and I also have permanently red, gritty eyes that also feel hot. The combination of the red nose and red eyes makes people judge me as a drinker – I never touch alcohol. Of late, I have found that I have very dry skin around my hairline which is itchy and red.
If there is anyone that can relate please share with me a solution. This is very embarressing. My sons wedding is coming up and I don’t want pictures of myself with makeup stuck in the scabs on my nose. At the moment I am using Cliniques Redness range of cleansers and make up. My face looks better when I have the make on, but when I remove the makeup it is back to the red face. The use of Clinique has done nothing to remedy the scabs on my nose though – they are there pernamently.
Please help me
Thanks Janet
Zinc Oxide cream for rosacea papules!!
After years of Glycolic acid products, my skin fell prey to acne rosacea so I am pretty sure that high percents of acids, retinols etc do have a relationship in rosacea onset!
I have tried all sorts of products to see no real results till I started using zinc cream as an experiment… IT WORKED
Use at bedtime and it will show results in a couple of weeks also dont stress, doesnt help!
Good luck everyone
@yuka
are you sure zinc oxide cream will work for the papules.i’ve been trying to get rid of them for months.they do fade for some time but become all red again.they just don’t seem to reduce even a little.i apply adapalene gel on them before sleeping.should i replace it with this for some time?
how’s your rosacea doing now?
i hope its better now
take care
Hi, I had posted a comment in September and my last post was about possibly doing IPL laser. I did end up doing it and I am happy with the results. I did 2 treatments (even though they suggested 3 – 5). I decided for me that I would stick with 2. I did them 6 weeks apart and I did notice a difference especially around my nose and cheeks. It wasn’t a drastic change but it was a definite difference. After reading articles about possible skin drooping after doing laser I scared myself a little and decided to stop at two treatments. I went back to using metrocream as well. I think it is good to still use something even though I did the IPL. The dermatoligist I saw for a second opinion confirmed it was rosacea and suggested using metrocream again. She said it won’t completely take redness away but it does keep it at bay. She also said not to waste my money on IPL anymore. I also have been using diroseal cream – Avene (over the counter cream) and it has completely gotten rid of the itchiness which is a huge relief because that just reminds me that I have rosacea. I also bought a mineral powder SPF 30 called sunforgettable ( I love this stuff). I did stop drinking caffeinated beverages for awhile and have limited how much I drink because I find it does help. I also drink my hot drinks warm. I hope everyone has found their own way of coping with rosacea and that it is helping.
Theresa
hi everyone
my doctor told me i had rosacea in october and since then i have been applying metrogel,adapalene gel and have been using sunscreen to protext my skin.
though i rarely have pustules on my nose now,my papules don’t seem to go away.somedays they are rarely visible and somedays they are were red.
yesterday my papule looked normal but suddenly started to expand.now its literally a semi sphere.it looks very ugly.it has been 2 or 3 days since i observed the enlargement and its still the same.what do you think might have happened because that papule has been there since october and this is the first time it has enlarged.should i try something new?please help.it is very big,very red and very very ugly.i look like a scary down.
Akash
*they are very red
Hi everyone.
I’m 29 years old and for the past year and a half or so I’ve been suffering from Rosacea. It started on my right cheek, then spread to my forehead and then eventually my left cheek as well. I never had problems with my face before other than some minor acne in my early teens.
I went to a dermatologist and she diagnosed me with Rosacea and Eczema. I have had eczema since I was a child but it’s only ever been on my feet, never on my face.
I don’t really have burning or itching but I do notice when I get worked up my face feels hot. The redness also never seems to go away, it’s just consistent. I don’t see a noticeable difference in redness when I’m flustered. I’m able to cover it quite well with make up but I’m not use to having to use an overall concealer.
The dermatologist prescribed me with Salvax which did seem to help with the bumps and when I went back to her for a follow up she prescribed more harsh medicines that were incredibly expensive….so I stopped going to her.
I currently use the Ultra Calming line from Dermalogica. I have noticed a great improvement but it’s still not 100%. My skin is weird…it’s dry where the rosacea is but oily in other areas.
I want to find natural remedies that can treat my skin. I just want my old skin back
I’m Canadian and moved to the States for just over 2 years ago. This started shortly after I moved here….coincidence? Who knows.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
~Laura
I have read through almost every post in this forum and every one fits my condition to a “T”. I was recently diagnosed with rosacea, I have all the same symptoms that everyone has explained here, but I wasnt really satisfied with my doctors diagnosis or prognosis. I started looking online for more answers because I was not ready for a lifetime of suffering with an itching, burning, red, disfigured face, topped off with disappointments with failed treatments. What I found has answered so many questions for me, and makes perfect sense when compared with the life of my skin and I think it may shed some light for a few of you too. I copied a couple links that I recommend for everyone who has posted on this site. Let me know what you think, I have just ordered the treatment today from Amazon, I’m feeling pretty optimistic, and will definitely be posting my results.
As for the treatment, there are a lot of options based on which site you go to, I would do some shopping before trying the first suggestion you see. Before you order from a certain cite I would try to find the treatment on Amazon to see if you can save a few bucks. Also I would be really interested in hearing if anyone has already tried products related to these links and how well they worked.
Check out this link first, its actually from this very site and gives sum general info:
http://rosacea-support.org/demodex-mites-treatment
The next link is more in-depth, read the top of the page and then click on the FAQ’s section for all of the info. Note: the before and after pics don’t really look reliable, but the info in the FAQ’s matches up with the rest of my research:
http://www.demodexsolutions.com/
Even more useful info:
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1203895-overview
I just like to add some caution about the demodexsolutions web site because they tend to over reach and make claims that I don’t believe are supported by the research as we know it. I would like to see more research backing up their claims before I would recommend it.
Sometimes the reason that you can only find such information in one place is that it isn’t supported by the real world.
take care,
davidp.
hi, i have rosacea in the form of blood vessels on my face. Some have been there for years. They haven’t really bothered me so i’ve never done anything. now well into menopause i noticed what seems to be a circular one on my cheek..now that bothers me. i have a great dermatologist and have an apt to have the laser thing done this Friday!!!!!!! April 1st, 2011. I’m kind of freaking now about the results. I have fair skin and he said my rosacea isn’t that bad so it will work very well and i will be happy with the results. I have gone back and forth about doing this or not but its taken months to get an apt w/him so i don’t want to cancel. I’m scared!!! But i really want this gone. he said it will bruise and might take 7-10 days to go away??? I guess i will stay inside for a long time! That kind of freaks me out but i don’t want to go out w/bruising on my face.
I am 21 and I have had rosacea for 4 years now! I am stin college and I knowmy life sucks fully cause there Are so many things I am really good at but I don’t doanything because I am scared of flare ups! I have reached my final year just sitting in my room and missing al the college events and functions! Rosacea has taken my life! I wish something could be done!
I don’t see the point of living like this.It comes and goes.Just when you think it might never come back,it hits back and troubles you for days.My social life has been completely ruined due to the constant redness on my nose.I look like an ugly clown.
Wish i was never born.
i want to discuss regarding the red swelon of my father in law. he is diabeties patient since nine years. please guide me
It’s a very nice interaction.But I need many ARTICLE/RESEARCH PAPER 0n “BACTERIOLOGY/bacterial profile OF ROSACEA” for my thesis PROTOCOL. Please kindly provide me on the same.Thanks.
Hi;
I was just diagnosed with ocular rosacea. The doctor called it something else but I can’t read his writing but he said it was rosacea of or in the eye. I do not have a red face or anywhere else. The doctor said I had red on my face but I sure don’t see it. I have very mild fuchs dystrophy that is what I went to the doctor for. The doctor said the FD was not a problem but that rosacea was what was causing the dry eyes. How likely is it that rosacea is the problem if I don’t have any other symptoms like redness on face or body? My eye problems are: blurry vision, dry eyes, light (car lights or sun) glare. This keep getting worse. If I am real tired my eyes will get a little red, once in a great will my blood vessel breaks in the eye. The eye rim does not get red. I do have dry eyes and some crusting around the eye. Thanks, Fern
Diagnosed with Rosacea about 3 months ago, on edge of breakdown!! it’s awful. Anyhow more or less cleared up using the gel. Anyone know if I should carry on using the gel or stop will it come back? haven’t had advice from Drs as I hate going – they always find something else wrong with you!!
I last posted 1 Aug 2010. Here an update for researchers / fellow afflicted.
Recall I’m male, had it 15+ years, believe mine is mostly STRESS related – HENCE stop worrying about the condition and RELAX.
Still in UK, but moved so changed Doctor. Based on the info on this site I then moved from Oxytetracycline to Doxycycline – all was well at first – and Gamma-GT (LFT) fell from its typical 500 to 160 [ norm is <60, for years doctors have said it is Alcohol - but why would changing anti-biotic affect it so much ?]
Doxy is more convenient at just one pill a day instead of 1 to 4 when I was using Oxy-Tet with its associated food and milk constraints.
But after a 100 days it was a different brand of Doxy that was dispensed and that gave me some quite severe stomach pains – details available to genuine researchers – I'm not slagging brands here. Guess is – its some other trace thing in the pill colours or whatever ..
Revert to Oxy-tet and do another LFT after a month – whoa Gamma-GT is back up – though only doubled to 320.
So new doctor thought we'd try the Metronidazole based cream – that was a disaster – I did all the careful cleaning and very small dose to nose – but within a week of stopping the Oxy-Tet (an overlap is advised) – and just using Metro – my nose flared up worse than I can ever remember. Back to Oxy-tet for a week to stabilise.
So now trying Lymecycline – and despite missing the odd day for the past 30 odd days it has worked brilliantly well.
Should it be of any other interest – I start the day with 500mg Vit C powder, in 0.5 litre(about a pint for US readers) weak water/juice) and 400mg cod liver oil and std Vit B1 tab. When on Oxy-tet must take 2 about then and avoid milk/food for an hour. Now can take the Doxy or Lyme anti-biotic an hour after food – early mid-day with lots of water.
It is incredibly frustrating that something that can spoil peoples lives is so little understood.
The more of us that share stories here will help researchers in the long term.
B
Hey.
I’m new here & I was diagnosed with rosacea 4 years ago. I’m 17 now and rosacea has ruined my teenage life. I go nowhere and stay in a room alone and avoid going school as much as possible.
Nowadays im a lot more depressed as i can see my rosacea becoming worse. No cream or gel suits me. I have dry, very dry skin unless i apply any cream for it. I have acne vulgaries, they come and go. And redness ofcourse, which is becoming permanent. I know i’m not alone in this battle against rosacea but i was diagnosed with it so early and it has actually destructed my teenage life… But i guess we all here together can support and help each other
PS- pls suggest any gel or cream!!
Hi SJ sounds awful at such a young age. Mine cleared up with 6 to 8 weeks of Metronidazole gel also available as a cream. I also used Bio-Oil instead of a mosturiser to try to hael scar tissue. Unfortunately it has come back but not as bad after applying gel twice a day very soon after it came back.
Thanks a lot ann.. Good to hear that you’re face has cleared up!
I was using erytop gel for acne. It has made my acne go away but my skin is freaking dry now. I used cetaphil moisturising cream but it burnt my skin. God, i have extraaaaaaaaaaaaaaa sensitive skin! Have u tried any clinique products?
How are they?
See b on August 11, 2011 at 3:14 AM
Sorry to hear about your case SJ
Lymecycline is still working well (Tetralysal 300mg) one a day – and the odd miss is ok too.
Why are some doctors unwilling to prescribe anti-biotics for life ?
Why are some people afraid of taking them ?
Most commercial meat production uses them relentlessly, so just eat less meat (and ensure it is organic meat) and then you know which anti-biotics are in your body.
Google “anti-biotics in organic meat” will help your research.
b
b : will surely google it! Thanks a ton:)
SJ Haven’t tried any Clinique products but have been told they do a very good concealer for Rosacea but it is green! I have a friend who suffers from this & she also has very sensitive skin – can only use water for cleansing & she has prescription for a gel or cream called Finacea contains azelaic acid.
Yes i’ve also heard this only.
Btw, i used flutivate for my dry skin.. It made my skin perfect.. but when i stopped using it my skin is very very very bad-ly dry.. Is rosacea like, dry also? I’m applying nothing right now and still my skin is burning and itching and it’s really dry. Is it common in rosacea?
What’s your condition right now?
Hi everyone,
I’ve been reading all of your posts and I’m beginning to think I am in the early stages of rosacea. I’m 29, have always been prone to facial flushing (general blushing but also flushing up when I drink alcohol, do even mild exercise, get stressed or emotional in any way) but more recently this seems to have got worse. The flushing is more frequent and, whilst it dies down quickly I often get red patches on my face that feel hot, dry and itchy. The itchiness can be quite intense at times. The patches will persist for a few days and then die down again. I have noticed that this tends to occur when I am stressed about something, when I’ve been drinking alcohol or when I’ve been eating a lot of carbs. I also think that antibiotics make this worse. I also suffer with widespread eczema which appears on my face in winter. Does this sound like it might be the beginnings of rosacea? I have no pustules or pimples that I think are related to this – only the odd hormonal spot now and then. Over the past couple of months I’ve also noticed spotty rashy dryness in my hairline which I think may be seborrheic dermatitis. Any advice anyone can give me would be gratefully received, particularly to do with concealing and itchiness.
Hey guys can a person with rosacea use glycerin as their moisturiser??
Pls reply ASAP!
I am aged 53 and have been suffering with Rosacea for about 10 years now. When it gets really bad I take Oxytetracycline but I haven’t had to take this for about a year now. I have managed to keep it under control using something called Finacea Gel. I find CLinique products quite harsh and wash and remove make up with Avene gentle cleanser, although it is a tissue off formula, you can wash it off. I follow this with Avene moisturiser with SPF 15 on top of the Finacea Gel. I have found that Mineral based face powders are more helpful than foundations. Sun and getting too hot, basically living, aggravate it, but only the odd spot here and there which I can cope with. But I never go out on a sunny day without a hat to shade my face, even when walking the dog.
There used to be some fabulous Rosacea products from a Canadian Chemist B Kamins, who did blue mineral stuff, but it is very difficult to get in UK now, something to do with EU packaging rules! Quite expensive but worth it. Avene products are much cheaper.
Although the medics say it is not related to what you eat, i do think there may be a link. I am about to embark on Patrick Holford’s Optimum Nutrition way of eating. He advises taking an allergy test and cutting out sugar, wheat, dairy and stimulants. I really think it all makes sense and will report back in 3 months!
Has anyone else experienced rosacea along hairline and in scalp with hair loss? Everytime I wash my hair more seems to fall out!