With evolving beauty standards, many women aspire to have supple, rosy cheeks.
However, constant redness may be far from glamorous and could even be alarming, as it might be a sign of rosacea.
While many people are familiar with common skin issues like acne, warts, eczema, and psoriasis, rosacea is also a prevalent skin condition, affecting 5.46 percent of the adult population, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
What is Rosacea?
Some people may experience occasional facial redness triggered by factors such as intense heat, strong emotions like stress, anger, or embarrassment, as well as sun exposure, or even alcohol intolerance.
However, there is a skin condition that closely resembles this reaction.
According to the Mayo Clinic, this condition causes persistent flushing or long-term redness on the face, which is sometimes mistaken for other skin issues like acne, allergies, or dermatitis. The inflammation leads to a reddish, rough appearance of the skin.
What Are the Symptoms of Rosacea?
As mentioned, one of the most noticeable signs of rosacea is facial redness and flushing. Individuals affected by the condition may also experience prolonged redness on the skin, along with a burning sensation that can feel hot and tender at times.
In addition to redness, individuals with rosacea may develop swollen bumps resembling acne, which can appear on the chest and back and, in some cases, contain pus.
Visible veins, commonly referred to as "spider veins," are also a symptom of rosacea.
The small blood vessels around the nose and cheeks may become enlarged, appearing larger than usual. In addition, severe rosacea may lead to eye problems, known as "ocular rosacea," which can cause dryness, irritation, and swelling of the eyes and eyelids.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for rosacea, but flare-ups can be managed with medication and gentle skin care.
How to Treat Rosacea?
Other than following skincare routines that suit the skin condition, there are ways to manage rosac ea. Medicines Dermatologists may prescribe gels or topical treatments to help control rosacea.
This may include metronidazole cream, which reduces inflammation and combats bacterial growth on the skin's surface.
Topical retinoids may also be recommended, as they have anti-inflammatory properties and help clear the skin by preventing pore clogging.
Aside from creams or gels, dermatologists may also prescribe oral antibiotics for more severe cases, such as doxycycline. Laser Treatment For long-term redness, laser treatment may also be recommended for patients.
This treatment targets visible veins, extreme redness, and bumps, often proving more effective than creams and medications.
Managing rosacea can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, its symptoms can be effectively controlled.
Early diagnosis, tailored treatments, and lifestyle adjustments are crucial to reducing flare-ups.
Whether through medications, laser therapy, or gentle skincare practices, individuals can find ways to soothe their skin and embrace a healthier, more confident complexion.
