What is Acne Rosacea?

Acne Rosacea affects mainly adults with fair women in their menopausal stages most susceptible. It also affects mostly middle aged men and can be identified by red flushed rough patches all over the face and in some cases, a red warty and enlarged nose.

So what causes Acne Rosacea?

Acne Rosacea is a dilation of the blood vessels that make the skin look red persistently. The blotchy redness will usually cover the whole face with tiny blood vessels visible underneath the skin. Red bumps and pimples, together with skin swelling that is tender to the touch are common signs. If untreated the nose may also enlarged and looks warty (rhinophyma).

So how do you get Rosacea and acne Rosacea?

Although the exact cause of Rosacea is unknown, it is believed that a skin infection called Demodex folliculorum (an excessive presence of skin mites) could trigger it. Often people do not realize they have it, but the first signs of cheek and nose flushing, when a sort of ‘red mask’ spreads across the face will give an indication that Rosacea is present.

Consulting a doctor at the first signs will significantly reduce disfigurement of the face.

What aggravates Rosacea and acne Rosacea?

Everyone differs but usually alcohol, spicy food, hot drinks (allow it to cool to room temperature first), strong sun light or strong winds, temperatures that are too hot or too cold (avoid hot baths, saunas, hot tubs), and skin products that are too harsh such as those with alcohol will aggravate the problem.

Foods to avoid include: alcohol, caffeine, dairy products, eggs, too much salt, saturated fats and sugar, chocolate, and spicy foods such as hot curries or chillies.

Wear cotton especially around the neck area or close to the face. Avoid clothing that’s too tight as the rubbing will cause irritation. Avoid make up if you can, but if you must wear it, make sure the products are for sensitive skin, are not oil based and made of natural ingredients as much as possible.

Use soap free dermatological cleansers to wash the face and avoid oily and scented soaps.

Other contributing factors could include vitamin deficiencies, stress and anxiety.

Take a good supplement with the anti-oxidants A,C & E, make sure there is a good representation of the vitamin B complex, and very importantly, Primrose oil as it contains linoleic acid.

Do NOT use topical steroid cream as it just makes the condition worse. Consult your doctor for anti-inflammatory drugs that will reduce the swelling and redness.

However, long term drug taking is not the solution. Next post we will look at some plants and herbs that will help sufferers of acne rosacea.

Related articles about Acne Rosecea

• 5 Reasons to See a Dermatologist (health.yahoo.com)
• How To Care For Rosacea (howcast.com)