Introduction to Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder of the face that most commonly occurs in people
of northern European descent after the age of 30. A red, flushed face may be the
first sign of rosacea. Eruptions usually appear on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.
The disorder is characterized by swelling, pimples, and in the advanced stages,
thickened skin. Rosacea patients may also have skin that is unusually vulnerable
to chemical and physical irritants.
Approximately 13 million people in the United States suffer from rosacea. It is
relatively common, especially in fair-skinned people. Women are more often affected
than men. In its milder stages, the small red bumps of rosacea can be confused with acne. The two
conditions can coexist, but rosacea usually begins and reaches its peak decades
after acne declines.
Film star W.C. Fields suffered from rosacea. Although his bulbous nose was often
attributed to excessive alcohol consumption, in fact it was in large part due to
swelling induced by rosacea, which may have been accentuated by alcohol use.
Rosacea is not curable, but can be managed. It generally becomes worse if not treated.
However, effective treatments are available and can be used long term.
Causes of rosacea
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