Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness and pus-filled pustules in some adults. Rosacea symptoms tend to come and go, and untreated rosacea usually gets worse over time, according to MayoClinic.com. It's easy to mistake other skin conditions, such as acne and eczema, for rosacea. If you suspect you have rosacea, make an appointment with your doctor or dermatologist to get a definitive diagnosis.
Types
Rosacea has several subtypes, which your dermatologist can identify, explains Rosacea Net. Each subtype varies and has different treatment methods, so identification is the first step in caring for your skin.
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea causes a noticeable redness or flushing. Blood vessels in the face may also be visible beneath the skin's surface. Papulopustular rosacea is characterized by bumps, lesions and pustules similar to acne. Phymatous rosacea causes the affected skin to thicken, which can lead to an uneven or bumpy appearance. In some cases, rosacea affects the eyes. Ocular rosacea can severely impair eyesight if left untreated.
Home Treatment
You can often treat mild rosacea at home if it does not affect your eyes. Use a mild cleanser to wash your face twice a day. Scrubbing or using abrasive face washes can irritate your skin and contribute to redness and swelling.
If your skin is particularly dry, using a noncomedogenic moisturizer may help relieve mild rosacea symptoms. Topical acne medications, such as benzoyl peroxide and sulfur, can help relieve pustules and lesions caused by rosacea.
Medical Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic to help clear your skin. In many cases, rosacea patients use both oral and topical medications to relieve symptoms. Isotretinoin, or Accutane, can help improve severe rosacea symptoms by reducing the production of oil by the sebaceous glands beneath the skin. Isotretinoin can lead to serious side effects, so it is typically a last resort for patients who do not respond to other treatment methods.
Some people benefit from microdermabrasion treatments to smooth the surface of the skin and minimize the appearance of redness and scarring. Laser therapy removes the top layer of skin and promotes new cell growth to reveal a fresh layer of skin that is often smoother and more evenly toned.
Patients with skin deformities from thick skin or visible blood vessels can see a dramatic improvement in appearance using electrocautery, a surgical procedure where the surgeon heats the top layers of skin and scrapes off the layers of excess tissue.
Alternative Treatment
Some patients report relief from rosacea symptoms after using oregano oil, emu oil, laurelwood, colloidal silver and vitamin K. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no conclusive medical evidence that these therapies are effective, however. Discuss alternative treatment methods with your doctor to help you make a decision about whether they may help your personal situation.
Prevention
You can often prevent rosacea flare-ups by protecting your skin and avoiding your personal triggers. Many people find drinking alcohol and eating spicy foods contributes to redness and breakouts. Avoid exposing your skin to the sun and wear a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher if you must be outside to avoid irritating or burning your skin. Avoid oil-based skin products that can clog pores and make your symptoms worse.
