Rosacea

Superficial blood vessels and redness on the cheeks and wings of the nose ?

Rosacea is a chronic disease on the face with increased capillary reactivity to heating, causing blood rushing and, eventually, telangiectasia.

It is 3 times more common for women than for men.

Average age from 30 to 60.

This decease affects 5.5% of the adult population.

To confirm the diagnosis, erythema must be present for at least three months.

Unfortunately the causes of rosacea remain uncertain, and both the etiology and pathogenesis are unclear.

There are 5 major theories:

1. damage of the connective tissue of the skin caused by solar irradiation.
2. abnormal vascular reactivity.
3. possible role of Helicobacter pylori, infection of the gastric mucosa.
4. certain chemical substances. These include capsaicin (chili pepper) and resveratrol (phenol found in red wine).
5. a potential role has often been proposed for the folliculemites Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis in the pathogenesis of rosacea.

Exacerbation can be provoked by:

• Temperature changes.
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Spicy food
• Stress
• Sun or wind.
• Medications that cause vasodilation.

Rosacea has a different duration and prognosis. This is usually a chronic disease, interspersed with episodes of acute inflammation.

Recommendations for patients:

• Avoid provoking or aggravating factors for their trigger factors of blood rushes.
• Facial massage can reduce swelling.
• Sunscreens should be applied daily.
• Avoid astringents, tonics, menthol, camphor, waterproof cosmetics that require solvent removal, or products containing sodium lauryl sulfate.
• Reasonable use of cosmetics can significantly improve the appearance and thereby significantly reduce stress. If the skin is dry, use emollients (hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic emollient creams).
• Avoid topical steroids.

Only a doctor can diagnose and select the appropriate treatment for rosacea.