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Rosacea is not Acne
September 28, 2007
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Even though it can look like acne, rosacea is a common skin condition with acne-like symptoms that can be as psychologically scarring as acne.
In reality, rosacea is very different from acne. Acne is a general term used to describe the blemishes and lesions that can erupt on the face, chest, back, and other areas of the body due to pores clogged with sebum. Rosacea is a vascular disorder that is caused by enlarged blood vessels under the skin. While acne usually appears during adolescence and will continue during adulthood, rosacea usually begins between the ages of 30 and 50. Rosacea is most common among fair-skinned people.
How do you know if you are getting rosacea? The clearest symptom is that you’ll notice your skin becoming red, especially around your t-zone area.
Most rosacea sufferers describe a feeling of tightness and dryness in their face. Their skin may look and feel parched, and may become very sensitive to creams, lotions, or ointments. Eventually, most rosacea sufferers will notice telangiectasias, the small, nearly imperceptible blood vessels that appear in the afflicted areas.
As the rosacea worsens, patients may see their complexion becoming consistently redder. Often, rosacea sufferers may experience a red nose. They also tend to blush easily, and they may develop swelling and acne-like symptoms like pimples and bumps. The rosacea sufferer may also notice that their pores seem to become more prominent. Swelling is not uncommon, especially in the area of the nose and cheeks.
Rosacea afflicts many Canadian adults. Both men and women appear to suffer similar rates, but men are usually affected more severely.
Many skin professionals suggest that certain environmental factors may aggravate signs of rosacea. These include direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and pollutants. Other factors that may exacerbate rosacea include hot liquids, excessive exercise, biting winds, alcohol and caffeine, spicy foods, and stress. These ‘triggers’ will worsen the symptoms of rosacea and will cause a flare-up.
A word of caution: Rosacea suffers should NEVER use acne treatments to treat their condition. Some acne medications will actually worsen rosacea.
Posted by Beauty Match on September 28, 2007 | Permalink
Topics: Skincare Tips |
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