Could your flushed skin be rosacea? Experts highlight the early signs and symptoms

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Rosacea isn’t a skin situation that’s spoken about typically. It’s most likely why individuals can typically confuse it for pimples.

According to the National Rosacea Society, rosacea is a long-term persistent skin situation that impacts the central a part of the face.

Even although it may well develop at any age, affected person surveys have proven that most individuals that suffer from rosacea are aged 30 and above.

So may your flushed skin be rosacea? Experts highlight the early signs and symptoms.

What are the early signs and symptoms of rosacea?

For Dr Zainab Laftah, advisor dermatologist at GetHarley, typically the earliest signal of rosacea is delicate skin and flushing with warmth and alcohol.

“Typically patients report burning or stinging sensation with fragrance products or products that can leave the skin feeling dry,” she mentioned.

Why are some individuals not identified with it?

Some skin adjustments can progress over years, so symptoms of flushing and skin sensitivity should not attributed as early signs of rosacea.

“Rosacea can also be genetic and often red rosy cheeks are considered a familial feature, therefore rosacea goes undiagnosed,” mentioned Laftah.

What causes rosacea?

Like many skin circumstances, rosacea can be exacerbated.

“[This can be] by sudden changes in light and temperature but it tends to be a long-term condition,” mentioned Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy2U.

“No one really knows the root cause of rosacea, but there are triggers that have been known to make it worse. These are usually lifestyle factors, such as alcohol, spicy food, hot drinks, or sometimes vigorous exercise and stress.”

Though the reason behind rosacea is unknown, it’s thought of to be multifactorial.

Laftah added: “The skin microbiome is altered with a dysregulation in the immune response, resulting in excess inflammation, and increased and dilated blood vessels. There is genetic susceptibility and known environmental triggers including sunlight and heat.”

How are you able to deal with it?

Treatment consists of avoiding and limiting the identified triggers, for instance alcohol and spicy meals.

“Skincare is also important,” mentioned Laftah.

“Gentle cleansers and moisturisers, with a daily sunscreen are recommended. If significant inflammation is present then prescription-grade creams and/or oral medication may be required. Lasers can be used to treat dilated blood vessels.”

Day added: “If you feel you may have symptoms of rosacea, it’s best to get in contact with your GP or visit your local pharmacist.”

However based on Dr Leah Totton, founding father of Dr Leah Cosmetic Skin Clinics and Dr Leah Skincare, the appropriate skin care alone can enhance facial redness by 20-30%, however this depends upon the severity of the situation.

“Sensitive skin can be a problem for people with rosacea, so opting for gentle skin care products is vital. Look to use a [gentle] cleanser that is paraben-free and fragrance-free,” mentioned Totton.

“Those suffering from rosacea require a medical moisturiser, which is suitable to soothe and hydrate the skin, as dry and sensitive skin which is classic of rosacea can trigger further redness. Moisturisers must be suitable for sensitive skin and not clog pores.

“Sun exposure can trigger rosacea, so an SPF is important. Physical blocks such as Obagi SPF are better than chemical SPF. An SPF with a green undertone such as Rosalique, which also has an anti-redness formula, is my pick for those with rosacea.

“Vitamin C serums can be helpful to those suffering from rosacea but it depends on the client’s skin. [But] the serum is used in terms of strength and any other ingredients it contains can irritate sensitive skin. This activity should be introduced after advice from an experienced cosmetic doctor.

“Vitamin A (retinol) may work to reduce the symptoms of rosacea, due to its ability to strengthen the skin barrier. However, retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) may irritate the skin, so a skin consultation is recommended before opting for this.

“Steroid creams should be avoided in those suffering from rosacea as it may aggravate the condition. And products containing alcohol or fragrance should be avoided as they can irritate the skin.”