Understanding Rosacea: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

Understanding Rosacea: A Guide to Managing the Chronic Skin Condition

Rosacea is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects over 16 million Americans. It primarily impacts the face and is often mistaken for other skin conditions like acne or eczema. While the exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, research suggests it may be influenced by genetics, an overactive immune system, and environmental factors.

In honor of Rosacea Awareness Month this April, Renova Medical Aesthetics is raising awareness about this often misunderstood condition. If you or a loved one struggle with persistent redness or sensitive skin, this guide will provide valuable insights into rosacea, its symptoms, and management strategies, including treatment options available at Renova.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by redness and visible blood vessels on the face. This condition can also cause acne-like breakouts, dryness, and thickened skin in more severe cases. Without proper management, rosacea tends to worsen over time. Therefore, early recognition and treatment are crucial.

Common Signs & Symptoms of Rosacea

• Persistent facial redness (cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead)

• Flushing and sensitivity to heat

• Visible blood vessels (telangiectasia)

• Papules and pustules (acne-like breakouts)

• Dryness, burning, or stinging sensation

• Thickened skin (in severe cases, especially on the nose—rhinophyma)

• Ocular rosacea (red, irritated eyes)

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Four Main Types of Rosacea

1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR) – Persistent redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels

2. Papulopustular Rosacea (Acne Rosacea) – Red bumps and pus-filled lesions often mistaken for acne

3. Phymatous Rosacea – Thickened skin, typically affecting the nose (rhinophyma)

4. Ocular Rosacea – Affects the eyes, causing redness, irritation, and dryness

   
   

Rosacea Education

If you're managing rosacea, understanding triggers and treatment options is essential to controlling flare-ups. Here's what you need to know:

1. Rosacea is Chronic

Rosacea is a lifelong condition requiring consistent management. Though there's no cure, identifying triggers and making lifestyle changes can help minimize symptoms.

2. Identify Triggers

Rosacea flare-ups can be triggered by various factors. Encourage tracking these common triggers:

• Sun exposure

• Hot beverages & spicy foods

• Alcohol (especially red wine)

• Stress & emotional changes

• Harsh skincare ingredients (fragrances, alcohol, menthol)

3. Gentle Skincare is Key

For those with rosacea, a gentle skincare routine is vital. Use fragrance-free, non-comedogenic products and avoid physical scrubs or harsh exfoliants. Look for ingredients like:

• Niacinamide – Soothes inflammation

• Azelaic acid – Reduces redness and bumps

• Green tea extract – Calms irritation

4. Sun Protection is Crucial

Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ can help manage rosacea and prevent flare-ups caused by sun exposure.

5. Treatment Options

Depending on severity, rosacea treatment options include:

• Topical treatments: Azelaic acid, metronidazole, or ivermectin

• Oral medications: Low-dose doxycycline

• Laser therapy: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) or vascular lasers to reduce redness

6. Lifestyle Modifications

Stress management, dietary adjustments, and avoiding extreme temperatures can significantly improve your quality of life by reducing flare-ups.

ZO Skin Health Protocol for Rosacea Management

At Renova Medical Aesthetics, we recommend the ZO Skin Health Redness Relief + Barrier Defense Program Treatment Kit to help manage the visible signs of red, sensitized skin. The ZO® protocol is designed to relieve rosacea symptoms by calming inflammation, reducing surface oil, and exfoliating to prevent premature aging. This kit are highly effective in managing redness and helping restore skin’s balance. Learn more about ZO skincare here!

For more information on the ZO Skin Health protocol, click here

Schedule a Consultation with Renova Medical Aesthetics

Managing rosacea requires a personalized approach, and Renova Medical Aesthetics is here to help. Whether you’re looking to explore skincare options like ZO Skin Health or want to discuss laser treatments, our team is available for both in-person and virtual consultations via Zoom.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable skin.

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