What is rosacea and is it contagious?
Rosacea is a common, acne-like benign inflammatory skin disease of adults, with a worldwide distribution. The main symptoms and signs of rosacea include red or pink facial skin, small dilated blood vessels, small red bumps sometimes containing pus, cysts, and pink or irritated eyes. Many people who have this condition may just assume they have very sensitive skin that blushes or flushes easily.
Rosacea is considered an incurable auto-inflammatory skin condition that waxes and wanes. As opposed to traditional or teenage acne, most adult patients do not “outgrow” this condition.
Rosacea characteristically involves the central region of the face, mainly the forehead, cheeks, chin, and the lower half of the nose. Alcohol intake does not directly cause the condition, but it can be aggravated by it. Rosacea is not contagious or infectious. The redness, often aggravated by flushing, may cause small blood vessels in the face to enlarge (dilate) permanently and become more visible through the skin, appearing like tiny red lines. Continual or repeated episodes of flushing and blushing may promote inflammation, causing small red bumps, or papules, that often resemble teenage acne.
One of the most unpleasant aspects of this condition is the overgrowth of dermal tissues producing a “phymatous” change in the skin. This appears as a thickening and permanent swelling of the facial tissues. A bulbous nose called rhinophyma is an example of this change.
Is rosacea like acne?
Rosacea, although distinct from acne, does have some similarities. Unlike common acne, the condition occurs most often in adults (30-50 years of age). Unlike acne vulgaris, it is devoid of blackheads and characteristically does not resolve after puberty. It strikes both sexes and potentially all ages. It tends to be more frequent in women but more severe in men. It is very uncommon in children, and it is less frequent in people with dark skin.
What is the treatment for rosacea?
There are many treatment choices for rosacea depending on the severity and extent of symptoms. Available medical treatments include antibacterial washes, topical creams, antibiotic pills, lasers, pulsed-light therapies, photodynamic therapy, and isotretinoin.
A combination approach may include prescription sulfa facial wash twice a day, applying an antibacterial cream morning and night, and taking an oral antibiotic for flares. At DSCMD, our certified dermatologists use series of in-office laser, intense pulsed light, or photodynamic therapies to treat this skin issue. We always advise patients to seek a physician’s care for the proper evaluation and treatment of rosacea.
Rosacea treatment at DSCMD Charlotte, NC
Looking for the best dermatologist in Charlotte? DSCMD is your top local skin expert. Contact Dermatology Specialists of Charlotte, Charlotte’s top Ballantyne and Blakeney Dermatologist, for your dermatology care.