Medical dermatology · Skin conditions
Rosacea: facial redness, spider veins and pimples
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory disease of the facial skin that causes redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin, visible spider veins, sensitivity and, in some cases, pimples without blackheads. It comes in flares, triggered by factors such as sun, heat, hot drinks, alcohol and spicy foods. There is no cure, but treatment controls the symptoms and reduces flares. At Yamagata Dermatologia, in Ipanema, Rio de Janeiro, diagnosis and treatment are carried out by dermatologists.
Symptoms and how to recognize it
Rosacea usually starts with episodes of sudden redness, which over time becomes persistent. The most common signs are:
- Persistent redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin
- Flushing (sudden redness) with heat, emotions or food
- Visible spider veins (telangiectasias)
- Pimples and pustules, without blackheads
- Burning, sensitivity and dryness
- Irritated, red eyes (ocular rosacea)
In advanced and rarer cases, the skin of the nose can thicken (rhinophyma), more common in men.
Causes and risk factors
The cause is not fully known. Genetic predisposition, changes in the skin's blood vessels, an exaggerated immune response and the Demodex mite, present on everyone's skin but in larger numbers in rosacea, all play a part. It is more common in people with fair skin, between 30 and 50 years of age.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is clinical, made by the dermatologist during the skin examination, based on the pattern of redness, spider veins and lesions. Dermoscopy can help distinguish rosacea from other conditions.
Treatments
- Topical treatmentCreams and gels that reduce inflammation and redness.
- Oral medicationsFor forms with pimples or more intense forms, depending on the evaluation.
- Intense pulsed lightReduces spider veins and persistent redness.
- Facial treatmentsLED facial, with a calming effect, as a complement.
Living with it and prevention
- Identify and avoid your own triggers.
- Use daily sunscreen, preferably with mineral filters.
- Cleanse the skin with gentle products and avoid scrubs, alcohol and fragrances.
- Moisturize with products for sensitive skin.
When to see a dermatologist
See a dermatologist when facial redness is persistent, when spider veins, pimples or frequent burning appear, or when the eyes become irritated and red with no other cause.
All procedures are recommended and performed after an individual medical evaluation. Results vary from person to person.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can rosacea be cured?
No, but it can be well controlled. Treatment reduces redness, pimples and the frequency of flares, and identifying triggers helps keep the skin stable.
Is rosacea the same as acne?
No. Both can cause pimples, but rosacea does not form blackheads, usually appears after age 30 and comes with redness and sensitivity.
What are the most common triggers?
Sun, heat, sudden temperature changes, hot drinks, alcohol, spicy foods, intense exercise, stress and irritating products.
Can I wear makeup?
Yes, preferably products for sensitive skin, fragrance-free, and green-tinted makeup, which disguises redness.
Team
Medical team
See also