5 Things You Need to Know About What Causes Rosacea

1. It's Still a Mystery

When you have rosacea, your skin takes on a reddened appearance. Additionally, small bumps filled with pus will appear on the surface of your skin. Although researchers have theories about the exact cause of rosacea, nothing is concrete. They believe rosacea stems from a combination of factors; this is the reason an exact cause can't be pinned down. As scientists work on more treatment products for the skin condition, they may learn more about possible rosacea causes.

2. Some Medical Theories

Scientists have suggested several possible causes for a person's rosacea. Since research is still going on, none of the theories have been proven. Some researchers believe a disorder of the blood vessels can cause rosacea and this is the reason swelling occurs at the site. Another theory involves tiny mites which supposedly make their way down from your hair and block the glands of your face. Some posit that a person who sustains sun damage can get rosacea or that a possible bacterial infection is the source.

3. Heredity Plays a Role

Doctors have noted that multiple family members often develop rosacea in their lifetime. Due to this factor, it's widely believed to have a hereditary link. If family members blush easily, they're more likely to develop rosacea. The areas of the skin where you blush develop the symptoms of rosacea. In addition, families with fair complexions seem to have more incidences of rosacea.

4. Watch the Beauty Products

Although beauty products may not cause permanent symptoms to appear, they can cause short term outbreaks. Certain ingredients in washes, toners, and acne medications will cause rosacea to appear. The most common ingredients that trigger rosacea are alcohol, witch hazel, menthol and eucalyptus oil. Most often, once you discontinue use, the rosacea will clear up without the need for additional treatment. If you're prone to rosacea, use gentle cleansers to wash your face.

5. Don't Aggravate Your Rosacea

Although possible causes of rosacea vary, there are certain things known to worsen the condition. People with rosacea can aggravate their symptoms by exposure certain foods, like spicy and hot meal items. Drinking alcohol can also worsen a person's rosacea. The outside elements can also make symptoms worse. Take care in extreme temperatures or when sitting out in the sun. Some medications can make rosacea worse as well. Meds which dilate blood vessels, like blood pressure drugs, are known to cause heightened symptoms in rosacea patients.

Last updated on: Nov 18, 2009

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