Rosacea

Approximately 415 million people have rosacea worldwide. At The Dermatology Center of Worcester, in Worcester, Massachusetts, the team of experienced dermatology providers offer rosacea evaluation, diagnosis, management, and treatment customized to you. If you have a rash and wonder if it’s rosacea, call the office or use the provided scheduling link to make your appointment now.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes a red rash on the face. It may also affect the ears, chest, and back. Rosacea can affect anyone but is most prevalent in people with a fair complexion who are 30-50 years old. 

The cause of rosacea isn’t definitively known, however, it runs in families. Other factors like immune system issues, intestinal bugs, skin mites, and a certain type of skin protein may also contribute to rosacea.  

What does rosacea look like?

Rosacea causes red skin, but specific symptoms can vary with the rosacea subtype. The four subtypes are: 

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is the most common type of rosacea. It causes redness, especially around the middle of the face, and prominent blood vessels. People with this type of rosacea flush easily.

Papulopustular rosacea

Papulopustular rosacea causes redness and swelling. It also causes breakouts that look like acne. 

Phymatous rosacea

Phymatous rosacea causes bumpy, thickened skin, which can be either red or normal skin tone. This type of rosacea can lead to a bulbous nose. 

Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea causes eye redness and burning. If you develop ocular rosacea you’re more likely to develop skin rosacea.

All types of rosacea can cause serious symptoms, leading to both cosmetic and physical discomfort.  

How is rosacea treated?

Rosacea treatment includes both preventive care and treatments to target your symptoms. It’s important to pay attention to triggers that lead to rosacea flare-ups. Some common triggers include sunlight, spicy foods, and hairspray. You can control your exposure to most triggers with lifestyle changes. 

Wearing good sun protection is important for all people with rosacea, and The Dermatology Center of Worcester team can help you find skin care products that are gentle enough to use when your skin is irritated.

You may need prescription topical skin treatments, oral medications, or treatments like light therapy to reduce rosacea symptoms. A medicine that treats severe acne can help to prevent skin thickening from progressing to a bulbous nose. 

If you have ocular rosacea, you’ll likely need medicated eye drops along with warm compresses and a gentle eye-cleaning routine at home. 

Following your treatment plan closely allows you to effectively manage your rosacea and prevent it from worsening. 

To learn more about how you can control your rosacea flare-ups, call The Dermatology Center of Worcester or click the online scheduling feature to set up a consultation now. 

*We offer treatments for chemical peels, hydrafacials, botox, and more. Call us to book your appointment today.