5 Things You Need to Know About Rosacea and the Nose

1. Rosacea and the Nose

Rosacea is a common, chronic skin disorder. Many people don't know they have rosacea. However, a condition known as rhinophyma can result from advanced stages of rosacea, and the nose can actually grow larger. The nose will be red and appear swollen, and sometimes thick bumps will appear on the bottom part of the nose. Rhinophyma can also affect the cheeks with puffiness and bumps. Although rosacea affects more women than men, it's worse in men. Rhinophyma affects more men than women. Rosacea appears most often between the ages of 30 and 50, and it affects fair-skinned people more often.

2. The Nose Knows First

Rosacea usually appears on the nose first with small blood vessels that dilate, intensifying their appearance. The nose is red and bumpy. Many people dismiss the symptoms in their early stages due to a lack of rosacea awareness. Because the area affected by rosacea is where blushing occurs, some people think it is just that. Rosacea can present also with what looks like pimples. As such, the condition worsens and spreads to other parts of the face. It can affect the eyes, too. If you notice any changes in your skin, see your doctor or seek out a dermatologist.

3. Not Curable, but Treatable

Rosacea treatments are available, but there is no cure. It is best to treat the disease early. Your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic, such as tetracycline, and/or a topical antibiotic. To reduce inflammation, your doctor may prescribe a topical steroid, too. However, if your condition is advanced and you have rhinophyma, surgery is the best treatment. A surgeon will remove the excess tissue on the nose with a scalpel, laser or electrosurgery. Following surgery, dermabrasion can help improve the appearance of the nose.

4. Avoid Aggravating Rosacea

Some factors aggravate rosacea. Over-the-counter acne medications can make rosacea worse, so if you have acne, ask your doctor for advice on controlling it. You should avoid anything that causes flushing because it will make the redness worse. Examples are smoking, spicy food and alcohol. In addition, avoiding the sun and extreme temperatures will help. Be mindful of moisturizers, sunscreens, soaps and hair sprays. Avoid any that contain alcohol. However, you should always apply a sunscreen before going outside to avoid exposure to sunlight. Be gentle when applying anything to your face because vigorous rubbing makes your face redder.

5. Treatment for the Blood Vessels

You can elect to treat the dilated blood vessels with a procedure known as telangiectasias. Your dermatologist can treat them with a small electric needle, laser, pulse light or minor surgery. However, you'll need several treatments for the best results. Your doctor will help you decide the best option. You can also try to cover the vessels over with green-based moisturizers or tinted foundations as a conservative alternative.