Why Rosacea is Nothing to Hide

Your skin is the biggest organ in your body. While covers and protects you, it also plays a role in personal appearance. Much to their distress, some people experience skin conditions which change the way they look, resulting in embarrassment and a blow to self-confidence. One such skin condition is Rosacea. The bumpy, red facial patches characteristic of Rosacea can last for years, cycling through periodic flare-ups and remission. It is nothing to hide, however, but rather, a treatable and controllable condition.

Who Gets Rosacea and What Does it Look Like?

Of the millions of Americans who deal with Rosacea, more are women, although men can experience it as well, and usually in a more severe form. The typical age of the Rosacea patient is over 30 and up to about 50 years old. Also, typical sufferers are fair-skinned and of Scandinavian or Celtic descent, hence the possibility that Rosacea is inherited.

Symptoms of Rosacea can include:

• Red patches primarily on the face but also on the ears, neck, back and arms
• facial swelling
• raised pimples and visible blood vessels
• irritated, watery eyes
• itchy, dry and rough skin
• a nose that is noticeably reddened and puffy, especially at the tip

Some of these signs are more obvious than others, leading physicians to break Rosacea down into categories based on the kind and severity of symptoms. The National Rosacea Society states that 41 percent of people who have Rosacea routinely avoid social contact during a flare-up of symptoms.

Rosacea Flare-ups and Treatment

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) maintains that Rosacea has no cure but can be controlled. Over time, Rosacea may simply resolve.

The causes of Rosacea remain mysterious, but research indicates that the immune system plays a part in the condition. In addition, contributing factors seem to be:

• a naturally-occurring protein in the skin
• H. pylori, an intestinal microbe
• skin mites
• stress
• sweating
• sun, wind and weather
• alcohol
• spicy foods

Dermatologists use many strategies to help control Rosacea, including helping patients determine what their triggers may be. A routine skin cleansing regimen is helpful as is the application of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Sometimes, lesions warrant treatment with oral or topical antibiotics. Also, physicians may employ medical procedures such as laser treatments, cautery, and dermabrasion to improve the appearance of the skin.

Long Island Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology

Daniel W. Sherer MD FAAD and Monika Srivastava MD FAAD have a thorough understanding of the ups and downs of Rosacea. They are well-prepared to evaluate and help treat this bothersome skin condition, giving patients clearer skin and increased confidence in how they look. Contact Doctors Sherer and Srivastava and their staff at their Long Island area offices. They specialize in individualized and caring treatment for you and your skin. In Huntington, call 631-271-2769. In Hicksville, call 516-433-3200.