What is Rosacea?
It is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by face redness and it produces small, red, pus-filled pustules. If it is left untreated, it can progress and worsen over time. In most people rosacea is cyclic where signs and symptoms may flare up, lessen for a while then flare up again. Usually it is involves the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin and it differs from acne by its absence of comedones and hormonal involvement.
Cause
- Extreme temperatures
- Certain medications such as steroids
- Genetic background
- Certain foods, drinks or spices
- Over sun exposure
- Certain microorganisms such as H. pylori
Management
- Avoid triggering factors
- Avoid skin care products containing alcohol, menthol, eucalyptus, peppermint, witch hazel, clove oil and sodium lauryl sulfate
- Use sunscreen with SPF 50
- Use fragrance-free cleansers that have an acidic or neutral pH
- Consider anti-redness cosmetic products
- Consider vascular laser therapy
Treatment
- Apply 0.75% metronidazole gel in the morning and evening on a clean face for 3 months