We commonly diagnose and treat a few types of rosacea at Vujevich Dermatology Associates.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition most often recognized by the tendency to blush or become flushed more easily than others. Rosacea is not contagious, but unfortunately it can be a source of self-consciousness for people. Typically, the redness associated with rosacea appears in the nose and cheeks but can spread to the chin and forehead. Some people also experience redness in their ears, chest, and back. There are four types of rosacea and a large number of symptoms associated with this condition.
What Are the 4 Types of Rosacea?
The four types of rosacea are ocular rosacea, phymatous rosacea, papulopustular rosacea, and erythematotelangiectactic rosacea. While each of these types of rosacea is most likely to occur on your face, head, and neck, there are signs and symptoms that are unique to each type.
Ocular Rosacea
Ocular rosacea is characterized by eyes that are red and irritated, swollen eyelids, and a bump that can be mistaken for a sty. You may also experience watery and burning eyes. General eye dryness may occur, as well a sensitivity to light and blurry vision. Ocular rosacea is the most misdiagnosed form of rosacea as the symptoms are similar to those of other eye conditions. Symptoms that can help identify an ocular rosacea diagnosis are visible blood vessels on the eyelids, cysts on the eyes, and symptoms that are common in other forms of rosacea.
Phymatous Rosacea
Phymatous rosacea is characterized by the thickening of the skin and the skin forming a bumpy texture. Thickening of the skin usually starts as small plaques, which are thick, scaly areas of skin. Many, but not all people, diagnosed with this type of rosacea also become diagnosed with rhinophyma, which is the thickening of the skin on the nose causing it to look bulbous. Rhinophyma is more common in men and is often due to rosacea being left untreated. Phymatous rosacea is the most severe form of rosacea, yet is also the least common.
Papulopustular Rosacea
Papulopustular rosacea, which is also known as acne rosacea, is characterized by large, painful blemishes that form deep within the skin. Most of these blemishes form around the nose, but if left untreated can spread to the chest and back. The affected areas of skin can be very sensitive, and you may notice a burning or stinging sensation in these areas. You may also notice extremely oily patches of skin and extremely dry patches of skin. The dry areas can turn into plaques if left untreated. Papulopustular rosacea is most common in adults, specifically middle-aged women.
Erythematotelangiectactic Rosacea
Erythematotelangiectactic rosacea is the most common type of rosacea and is often referred to as ERT. It is characterized by the most common symptoms of rosacea, which are flushing, redness, and visible blood vessels. These symptoms most commonly affect the face but can also affect the scalp and neck. You may also experience warmth, swelling, and/or tingling in the affected areas. If left untreated, ERT can last longer, occur more frequently, and cover more areas of the skin.
What Causes Rosacea?
Though there are many types of rosacea, there is no one specific cause of this condition. Instead, it is a combination of genetics and exposure to irritants. We do know, however, who is at higher risk for developing rosacea.
Genetic Factors
People with fair skin tones, especially those who also have light colored hair and eyes, are more prone to develop rosacea. If you are a woman between the ages of 30 and 50, there is a higher chance you will develop rosacea, but it is more likely that men will experience severe rosacea symptoms.
Another genetic factor that can lead to rosacea is a family history of rosacea. Abnormal blood development and function can also lead to rosacea. Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria often found in the intestines, and too much cathelicidin, a protective protein, can lead to rosacea. Demodex, a skin mite, and Bacillus oleronius are also genetic factors that may lead to the development of rosacea.
Common Irritants
Anything that causes your blood vessels to dilate can set off a rosacea flare up. While these are common irritants, everyone’s response can vary. These commons irritants include:
- Alcohol
- Emotional reactions (stress, anger, embarrassment)
- Extreme temperatures
- Hot baths or showers
- Spicy foods
- Hot beverages
- Any activities that produce excessive sweat
- Allergies
- Sun exposure
- Chronic health conditions such as inflammatory conditions or hormonal imbalances
How Do I Treat Rosacea?
There are many options for rosacea treatment, including topical ointments and laser treatments.
Topical Treatment
Two of the topical treatment for rosacea options are Azelaic Gel and acne wash. Azelaic Gel is used to treat the bumps and swelling that can occur with rosacea. There are two active ingredients in this medication, azelaic acid and niacinamide, which helps reduce redness, pimples, and the scaliness of your skin. It is important to use this medication as prescribed by your dermatologist.
The second topical treatment is acne wash. Acne wash is made up of two active ingredients, salicylic acid 5% and sulfacetamide sodium monohydrate 10%. This medication also aids in reducing redness, scaling, and pimples associated with rosacea, but is specifically used to help the redness and swelling.
While topical treatments for rosacea are common, Vu Pharmaceuticals offers you the convenience of getting your medications while you are in our office for your appointment. Plus, by skipping the pharmacy, your medications will cost less and you can receive them without that extra step.
Laser Treatment
Rosacea laser treatment is often used to reduce the redness associated with rosacea. During a cosmetic consultation, your dermatologist will determine if a laser treatment would be beneficial for you. You will notice a marked difference in your skin after three to four laser treatment sessions. Although each appointment is scheduled approximately one month apartment, the appointment is only approximately 15 minutes for each treatment.
During the laser treatment, wavelengths of light are directed toward the tiny blood vessels just below the skin’s surface. The heat from the laser causes these vessels to shrink, reducing the appearance of the vessels. When completed by trained and board-certified providers, like those at Vujevich Dermatology, this is a safe procedure with mild side effects.
While understanding the different types of rosacea, the causes of it, and identifying triggers is essential to managing the condition, a treatment plan prescribed by your dermatologist can help improve your rosacea symptoms and avoid more severe symptoms. Contact our team at Vujevich Dermatology Associates to schedule an appointment today to discuss an individualized rosacea treatment plan for you.