Could your flushed skin be rosacea?

Rosacea isn’t a skin condition that is spoken about often. It’s probably why people can sometimes confuse it for acne. According to the National Rosacea Society, rosacea is a longterm chronic skin condition that affects the central part of the face.

Even though it can develop at any age, patient surveys have shown that most people who suffer from rosacea are aged 30 and above. So could your flushed skin be rosacea?

WHAT ARE THE EARLY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ROSACEA?

For Dr Zainab Laftah, consultant dermatologist at GetHarley, often the earliest sign of is sensitive skin and flushing with heat and alcohol.

“Typically patients report burning or stinging with fragrance products or products that can leave the skin feeling dry,” she said.

WHY ARE SOME PEOPLE NOT DIAGNOSED WITH IT?

Some skin changes can progress over years, so symptoms of flushing and skin sensitivity are not attributed as early signs of rosacea. Rosacea can also be genetic and often red, rosy cheeks are considered a familial feature, therefore it goes undiagnosed.

WHAT CAUSES ROSACEA?

Like many skin conditions, rosacea can be exacerbated.

“Sudden changes in light and temperature but it tends to be a longterm condition,” said Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy2U. “There are triggers that have been known to make it worse. These are usually lifestyle factors, such as alcohol, spicy food, hot drinks, or sometimes vigorous exercise and stress.”

HOW CAN YOU TREAT IT?

Treatment consists of avoiding and limiting the known triggers, for example alcohol and spicy foods.

“Skincare is also important,” said Laftah. “Gentle cleansers and moisturisers, with a daily sunscreen, are recommended. Sensitive skin can be a problem for people with rosacea, so opting for gentle skin care products is vital. Those suffering from rosacea require a medical moisturiser, which is suitable to soothe and hydrate the skin, as dry and sensitive skin which is classic of rosacea can trigger further redness. Sun exposure can trigger rosacea, so an SPF is important. Steroid creams should be avoided – it may aggravate the condition,” she added.