What Is Rosacea And Do I Have It?

Rosacea is a term used to describe a set of conditions, but it is most commonly associated with red skin, similar to age spots, on the face or neck, accompanied by a feeling of dryness and a stinging or burning sensation.

The condition is not always limited to the face. It can also spread to other areas, such as ears, neck or elsewhere on your upper body. While this is commonly considered rosacea, the condition can also be very mild, involving very fine lines appearing on the surface of the skin.

Paying attention to what you’re doing before flare-ups can help to identify the triggers that cause flare-ups. These can include exposure to extreme heat or cold, sunlight, or certain foods, such as spicy chili, soups, or drinking alcohol. Just as triggers can vary, so can the intensity of the symptoms.

Mild cases will experience red skin, and more severe cases can lead to damaged skin with a painful sensation. In the more extreme cases, bumps can appear on the skin of the nose. The most extreme form appears near the eyelids, where it can be harmful. All forms of rosacea can be embarrassing or distracting for anyone who has it.

The stresses of everyday life can also be a factor. Being careful to eat well, exercise frequently, and keep your skin clean with high quality, gentle topical cleansers. Just because you have rosacea doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love. Knowing what your triggers are and preparing for possible flare-ups by preparing yourself can keep your skin looking good.