Rosacea is a chronic condition affecting the blood vessels of the face. It is most common in both men and women aged between 30 and 40 and results in red blotches with hard swollen pimple like bumps appearing on the face.
The superficial facial blood vessels become enlarged and dilated resulting in the hot, inflamed rash that is common in rosacea. Rosacea is most common in people who are prone to blushing and is triggered by any condition that will cause the blood vessels to dilate.
Treatment is therefore aimed at avoiding conditions that will cause dilatation of the superficial facial blood vessels. These conditions include:
• Stressful, anxious or embarrassing situations
• Allowing the skin to overheat (sauna’s, sunburn, overcrowded rooms, washing in hot water)
• Some medications and foods (always consult your doctor before using a new medication)
It is also important to remember that rosacea is not related to eczema or acne and the treatments normally used for these conditions may worsen rather than improve the symptoms. Treatment is aimed at treating symptoms and avoiding trigger situations.