Over 45 million people world wide suffer from this chronic inflammatory skin disorder which affects the central region of the face and sometimes is confused with acne. Rosacea affects both men and women and is a progressive vascular disorder which presents itself from around the age of 30.
Symptoms
The symptoms usually begin with episodes of flushing and more progressive symptoms develop as the condition worsens. Early diagnosis and lifestyle adjustment can prevent the condition from getting worse. Rosacea is a relapsing condition which means that there are times when the condition gets more severe. Burning, stinging, acne like lumps, dilated red blood vessels, eye irritation and lesions are all characteristics of severe Rosacea.There is no defined cause for the condition, but the latest findings suggest that abnormalities in the facial blood vessels and increased microscopic mites which are found in the central region of the face could contribute to the condition.
It has also been identified that several triggers may make the symptoms worse. These include, stress, sun exposure, strenuous exercise, temperature changes, hot drinks, alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, diet and incorrect skin care products.
Treatment
Currently there is no specific cure for Rosacea, but lifestyle changes, diet medication and skin treatments may lesson the symptoms. For most people longterm treatment is a combination of self help and prescriptive medication. I recommend the following course of action; Identify your personal triggers and avoid them to minimise the symptoms. Use calming and soothing anti inflammatory facial products to reduce sensitivity and maintain hydration.
Make an appointment to see your GP for prescription medication or antibiotic creams when the condition is more severe. In some cases, when the blood vessels are very dilated and the skin is very red, Intense Pulsed light (IPL) Therapy may be recommended to shrink the blood vessels and reduce the blood flow in the area affected area.
Ocular rosacea affects the eyes and I advise you to see your GP, the symptoms include; dry irritated bloodshot eyes and inflammation of the eye lids.
This long-term chronic condition can lead to low self-esteem and embarrassment. I recommend the use of specific skin care products and treatments. At the clinic we offer a bespoke skin treatment which reduces redness and calms and cools the skin. We recommend the Ultra Calming product range for home care which helps to reduce inflammation, reduces sensitivity, maintains the skins moisture levels and protects from further sun damage.
For ladies, we recommend a green, red reducing mineral concealer is applied under mineral foundation to help even out skin tone. Mineral makeup has less irritants and is more suitable for a sensitised skin.
For more advice please feel free to contact the clinic on 1775 249425.