Rosacea
"Early identification of symptoms and appropriate treatment are critical to controlling the condition and improving the quality of life of those who suffer from it."
DR. MARÍA HUERTA BROGERAS
SPECIALIST. DERMATOLOGY DEPARTMENT
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that affects a significant number of people and is most common in middle-aged women with fair complexions.
Rosacea manifests itself with persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels in the skin, inflamed papules and burning or itching sensations.
The true cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure for rosacea, but early identification of symptoms and proper treatment are key to controlling the condition and improving the quality of life for sufferers.
What are the symptoms of rosacea?
It manifests differently in each person, but some common symptoms include persistent facial redness, the presence of small visible blood vessels in the skin (telangiectasias), dry eyes and swollen eyelids, inflamed papules and a burning or itching sensation, as well as thickening of the skin in the nose area in some cases.
These symptoms can vary in severity and may appear for a season and then disappear for a while.
What are the most common symptoms?
- Persistent facial redness
- Telangiectasias
- Swollen papules
- Burning or itching sensation
- Dry eyes and swollen eyelids
- Thickening of the skin
Do you have any of these symptoms?
You may have rosacea
What are the causes of rosacea?
Despite ongoing research, the exact cause of rosacea remains unknown.
However, there are several factors that contribute to its development. These include genetic predisposition, abnormalities in facial blood vessels, exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight or extreme temperatures, and lifestyle, where alcohol consumption and emotional stress can become triggers.
Anyone can develop rosacea, but it is more likely to develop in women in adulthood (30-50 years) and with fair skin.
What precautions should be taken?
To manage rosacea and reduce flare-ups of the condition, it is important to take certain precautions and follow proper skin care.
- Sun protection. Sun exposure is one of the main triggers for rosacea. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) every day, even on cloudy days.
- Facial care products. Use skin care products designed for sensitive skin and avoid make-up that contains irritating ingredients.
- Moisturise. Use a gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser to keep skin well hydrated. This can help reduce dryness and irritation.
- Triggers. Identify the factors that trigger rosacea flare-ups in your case, such as alcoholic beverages, spicy foods, or emotional stress, and try to avoid them.
- Medical treatment. Consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.
How is rosacea diagnosed?
The diagnosis of rosacea is established by clinical evaluation by a healthcare professional, usually a dermatologist.
There are no specific laboratory tests to confirm this chronic skin condition. The physician performs a thorough physical examination of the skin, noting persistent facial redness, the presence of visible blood vessels, papules, pustules or other characteristic symptoms.
In addition, information is collected on symptoms, triggers, and medical and family history. Once the clinical features are identified, a diagnosis of rosacea and an appropriate treatment plan are established.
How is rosacea treated?
Anaphylactic shock and its complications
Rosacea treatment is based on the severity of symptoms and the individual needs of each patient and is essential to control and alleviate the symptoms of rosacea.
Topical treatment
Topical treatments are an essential part of the rosacea approach. Products containing metronidazole, azelaic acid or azelaic acid can reduce inflammation and redness. In addition, products formulated with ivermectin can be effective in controlling symptoms.
Oral treatment
In more severe cases, your dermatologist may prescribe oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or tetracycline, to control inflammation and lesions. These treatments are generally used on a short-term basis due to possible side effects. Medical follow-up is essential during the use of oral antibiotics.
Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
This is an option to reduce the appearance of dilated blood vessels and facial redness. These technologies can be very effective as long as they are recommended by your doctor.
It is essential to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. With the right approach and timely medical care, it is possible to achieve healthier skin and a significant improvement in the quality of life for rosacea sufferers.
Where do we treat it?
IN NAVARRE AND MADRID
The Department of Dermatology
of the Clínica Universidad de Navarra
The Department of Dermatology of the Clinica Universidad de Navarra has extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of dermatological diseases.
We have extensive experience in highly precise surgical treatments, such as Mohs surgery. This procedure requires highly specialized personnel.
We have the latest technology for the dermo-aesthetic treatment of skin lesions, with the aim of achieving the best results for our patients.
Diseases we treat
Why at the Clinica?
- Experts in Mohs Surgery for the treatment of skin cancer.
- We have the best technology for dermo-aesthetic treatments.
- Safety and quality assurance of the best private hospital in Spain.
Our team of professionals
Dermatology specialists with expertise in treating rosacea
Frequently asked questions about rosacea
To eliminate or diminish the cosmetic signs of rosacea, your dermatologist may prescribe a cream or gel to be applied to the affected skin.
They should not expose themselves to the sun without protection, as intense sunlight can exacerbate symptoms. In addition, they should avoid skin products containing irritating ingredients and refrain from rubbing or scratching the skin, which could worsen the irritation. Excessive consumption of alcohol and spicy foods should also be limited, as they are known rosacea triggers. Stress management is equally important, as emotional stress can trigger flare-ups.
It has been observed that laser is the most effective technique for treating the skin redness and telangiectasias of rosacea, and its results are longer lasting than those of traditional drug therapies.
However, it is up to your doctor to advise you on the best way to treat and control the symptoms of rosacea for your specific case.