Dealing with one of Ireland’s most common skin problems

ROSCEA is a bit of an Irish problem. We have one of the highest rates of rosacea sufferers in the world.

However, although it is so commonplace, and particularly for the Irish skin type, remarkably we still don’t know exactly what causes the disorder.

Some theories suggest it’s down to an autoimmune response to bacteria, while others point to a mite that we all have in our skin called Demodex – it’s been seen to occur in larger numbers on rosacea skin types than others. But there’s still no definite answer.

What we do know for certain are the signs rosacea is coming. And those signs are many and varied.

Skin expert Eavanna Breen says: “Rosacea generally shows itself around the central panel of the face, down the nose and across the cheekbones.

“It will present with one or more of the following symptoms – flushing, persistent redness, pustules and papules, telangiectasia [in other words ‘thread veins’], dryness, burning or stinging.

“Don’t freak out if you’re displaying red cheeks, as this does not necessarily mean its rosacea.”

Eavanna continued:

“It’s important to have any symptoms sufficiently examined by a skin expert and have them diagnose the issue, before considering any treatment.” As with most skin disorders, people experience rosacea at different levels of severity.

Some people might just experience mild flushing and dryness, while others can suffer far more extreme symptoms.

There are different levels or types – type one, type two, type three and type four. Type one is mainly characterised by flushing, with the appearance of telangiectasia also common. Dryness, scaling and burning can be present too.

When it comes to type two, central facial erythema (swelling) is seen, with pustules and papules (spots) present.

It can look like acne, with the main difference being that blackheads are not present. Some people misdiagnose themselves with acne when it is actually rosacea. And months (even years) go by with them attempting to selffix the problem with acne solutions. It can also have the same characteristics as type one. Type three features thickened skin with an irregular skin surface Rhinophyma (a rare skin disorder characterised by a large red bumpy nose) is commonly present. The same characteristics as types one and two may also be present Type four, meanwhile, can have all of the above with the included characteristic of bloodshot or watery eyes, and may even affect vision.

None of the above are particularly pleasant. However, although there’s no definitive cure for rosacea right now, there are plenty of ways to treat it and help keep it under control.

Eavanna Breen has drafted her top five tips to help keep Rosacea at bay. First off, learn to identify the infection. Identifying the usual suspects such as alochol, acidic foods and processed meats, effective sun protection, see a skin expert and finding the right skincare for you.

Speaking about the importance of skincare, she said: “Ensuring you are using the right skincare products, specifically for your own skin’s individual needs, will make all the difference.

“But it really is an individual thing and talking to an expert about this is key.

“Book a consultation with your skin specialist to get a full diagnosis, and then advice on products that will help deal with the breakouts without being overly aggressive.” Eavanna Breen has worked as a beauty therapist since 1991, specialising in advanced skin care, electrolysis and laser treatment. In this time she has worked alongside cosmetic surgeons, doctors and naturopaths.

RIGHT: A before and after comparison showing the effects of treatment for roscea which is a common condition in Ireland, with one of the highest rates of sufferers in the world