According to the Mayo Clinic, rosacea is a chronic, inflammatory skin disease and is often referred to as adult acne. It occurs primarily in adults with fair skin between the ages of 30 and 50, and causes redness and acne around the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. Left untreated, symptoms will most likely continue to worsen and be harder to treat. Many over-the-counter treatments can irritate rosacea.
Sunscreen
It is recommended for those who suffer from acne rosacea to be especially diligent in applying sunscreen daily. The sun's rays can inflame acne rosacea further, making it more apparent. Acne.org recommends sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium oxide for skin with acne rosacea. Always select an oil-free sunscreen to help prevent further acne breakouts.
Topical Medications
Most topical medications prescribed for acne rosacea contain antibiotics to help reduce the inflammation and redness. Metronidazole, tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid are some of the medications used in topical treatments for rosacea. According to Acne.org, sodium sulfacetamide has also shown good results in the treatment of acne rosacea. Cortisone creams are also used to reduce the redness, but it must be used carefully per directions to avoid thinning skin.
Oral Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics are another treatment used for acne rosacea and often in partnership with a topical medication. Oral antibiotics are only prescribed for short-term uses, however, to help prevent the body from building a tolerance to the medication. Tetracycline, minocycline and erythromycin are common antibiotics prescribed, and Acne.org mentions doxycycline as the most notably effective antibiotic.
Accutane
Accutane contains the medication isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is typically reserved for the most severe cases of acne and is used to treat severe cases of inflammatory rosacea when other medications are not working. Serious side effects are possible from isotretinoin and patients taking the medication must be monitored regularly by their dermatologist for both physical and psychological symptoms.
Surgery
Laser surgery and electrosurgery are used to help eliminate large, visible blood vessels, remove any tissue buildup and help improve the overall appearance of the skin. Dermabrasion may also be used. In this procedure, rotating wire brushes are used to scrape away the affected areas of skin, forcing new skin production.
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