Rosacea is a common skin condition that impacts 415 million people globally and approximately 14 million in the U.S. alone. While you’ve likely heard of it and probably even know someone with it, there are a lot of myths surrounding Rosacea.
In honor of Rosacea Awareness Month, we’re debunking the most common misconceptions about the condition.
Myth 1: Rosacea looks the same in everyone
Fact: Rosacea presents differently in everyone
Rosacea is typically diagnosed by a visible, persistent facial redness that does not go away. In addition to the redness, those that suffer from rosacea may experience other symptoms too:
- Pimples and red bumps
- Flushing
- Visible blood vessels
- Eye irritation
- Skin thickening
- Rashes
- Facial swelling
- Dryness
- Burning and stinging
Not everyone experiences all symptoms, but in order to be diagnosed, you’ll experience at least two.
Myth 2: Rosacea is curable
Fact: Rosacea is manageable
While the long-term condition doesn’t have a permanent cure, it isn’t a curse either. Those with the chronic condition often go through periods of remission between flare-ups where they experience zero symptoms.
Depending on the frequency of the flare-ups, there are treatment options available: from oral to topical, the exact dosage and medicine are determined on an individual basis. As technology evolves, some cases of rosacea are even treated using lasers. The best anti-inflammatory routine helps keep symptoms manageable and in remission.
Myth 3: We know definitely what causes rosacea
Fact: There is no definitive cause
The cause of rosacea is still unknown. Those with a family history of rosacea may be at increased risk of the condition, but genetics are only a piece of the puzzle. Traditionally the condition appears in older adults (30+), typically in women, and in those with fair skin..
Recent studies even trace the condition to the immune system, but this attribution doesn’t paint a complete picture.
Myth 4: Rosacea happens randomly
Fact: Rosacea flare-ups can be caused by triggers
Environmental factors are thought to play a role in rosacea flare-ups. Those with rosacea likely experience certain triggers that lead to redness including, but not limited to sun exposure, alcohol, spicy food, and intense workouts.
For this reason, lifestyle management can be a great way to treat rosacea in tandem with the help of a dermatologist. Keeping a diary of potential triggers can help pinpoint what activates the condition in a particular individual and of course, eating healthy and maintaining a balanced lifestyle is another good place to start.
Whether you or a loved one has rosacea, it’s not the end of the road: Give us a call to see how we can work with you to manage and treat it: (727) 545-3376.