Rosacea is a common disorder, with approximately 3 million Canadians, and over 14 million Americans experiencing some form of rosacea symptom. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and may be difficult for some general practitioners or estheticians to diagnose. Generally, rosacea symptoms are found in the facial area, with symptoms on the scalp or other areas indicating a different condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are extremely important, as this reduces the progression and associated skin damage that may occur with untreated rosacea.
Some signs you may have rosacea….
- Skin Flushing & blushing easily
Many rosacea sufferers have a tendency to blush easily, with the facial capillaries becoming “flushed” with blood flow. This is usually one of the early signs of rosacea, and may be accompanied by a “warmth” or “hotness” to the skin.
- Redness that persists
As flushing and blushing occurs, damage (from excessive dilation) begins to accumulate within the tiny blood vessels near the skins surface, leading to a persistent red tone to the skin.
- Pustules, papules, pimples (inflamed rosacea)
Pimple like spots or rashes may appear on the skins surface (inflammatory rosacea) and is often mistaken for acne. This differs from acne in that there is an absence of blackheads and skin congestion.
- Sensitized and reactive skin
Skin may become sensitized and irritated easily from a variety of triggers, such as sun light, alcohol, spicy foods, poorly formulated skin care, etc.
- Vascular rosacea (visibly inflamed blood vessels)
As rosacea progresses and symptoms become worse, small capillaries (blood vessels) start to remain swollen and appear on the nose and cheeks. These capillaries have a tendency to become more pronounced if left untreated and may expand into “spider web” type patterns.
- Ocular rosacea & Rhinophyma
Some individuals may experience symptoms in the eye area (ocular rosacea) or in advanced cases, an enlargement on the nose (rhinophyma) due to a thickening of the skin.
- Facial swelling
Eventually, left untreated, damaged blood vessels may begin to leak, resulting in the build up of fluids in the facial area and the appearance of swelling.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of rosacea, and would like to know more about controlling this troublesome condition, we offer free consultations in clinic. Give us a call at 250.590.5459 and find out more about treating the symptoms and putting your rosacea into remission.