General Information About Rosacea
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a chronic skin disease that begins with sudden red flare-ups due to the rapid dilation of capillary vessels on the face, eventually leading to permanent facial redness and inflamed, bumpy rashes.
In acne, the skin is oily, and there are blackheads and whiteheads (comedones). Rosacea, on the other hand, usually begins after age 30, has no blackheads, the base of the skin is stark red, and the skin is generally very dry and sensitive.
Sunlight, extremely hot or cold weather, wind, taking hot baths, consuming overly spicy/hot foods, drinking hot tea/coffee, and alcohol consumption instantly dilate the blood vessels and turn the face red.
Yes, severe untreated rosacea, especially in male patients, can thicken the sebaceous glands and tissue on the nose, causing it to take on a large, red, and bumpy appearance like a potato (Rhinophyma).
There is no blood test. It is sufficient for the dermatologist to observe the typical permanent redness on the face, dilated blood vessels (telangiectasia), and listen to the patient's history of flare-ups to make a diagnosis.
Patients must always use factor 50 sunscreen and avoid triggers. For inflammatory rashes, metronidazole/ivermectin creams and low-dose oral antibiotics are prescribed. The only definitive way to eliminate the permanent red capillaries on the face is through ND:YAG Laser (vascular laser) treatments.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
