Rosacea is a skin condition that is often mistaken for acne vulgaris (the bane of many a young person going through adolescence), but it is different in a number of ways. For starters, it is not about raging hormones, blocked pores and over-production of sebum. Almost the opposite, as it tends to be a condition in older people. It is also limited to the face and eyes, whereas acne can also be a problem on other parts of the body, especially the back.
Although the exact causes of rosacea are not well understood, and a number of explanations can be found on the internet, there seems to be a link between age and genetics. Fair-haired and pale-skinned people into their 50s and beyond are more likely show symptoms. These may include swelling of some parts of the face, redness of facial skin, the appearance of tiny veins on the face, spots resembling acne, growth and swelling of the end of the nose, and redness in the eyes.
Some symptoms (types) will come and go in response to triggers such as stress, weather, temperature, chemicals and even diet, but others such as spider veins and swelling of the nose cannot be reversed without medical treatment. Rosacea sufferers will try to control or minimise their triggers based on a process of trial and error, to prevent uncomfortable and/or embarrassing flare-ups. Some products (e.g., cosmetics) can be used to hide some of the effects of rosacea.
I was diagnosed with rosacea in my mid-40s. I had endured acne since becoming a teenager, and had managed to control it for the most part, but I was never entirely free of it in 30 years. Perhaps it was in my genes that I would develop rosacea; but I think that my long-suffering face had been subject to too many acne creams, gels, lotions, and soaps. Not to mention topical antibiotics, unprotected sun exposure and 18 harsh Canadian winters!
It seems that I get occurrences of most of the the rosacea types, thankfully not too severe. I have since had low-dose treatment with Accutane, and undergone rhinoplasty to improve the state of my nose. I use Metrogel fairly regularly to help control any inflamed areas.
I try to avoid getting any sort of product on my face, as this generally causes irritation and inflammation. I have to be especially careful about shampoos and skin cleansers. (Anything with a fragrance is usually trouble!) In the summer, over-exposure to the sun is a problem, so it is a juggling act to find a gentle sun screen coupled with a gentle cleanser to remove it afterwards. I am still trying to work out which ingredients are most irritating...
When all is said and done, there are many people worse off than myself: I will never look that great -- especially up close -- but it is not a life-threatening condition.
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