Rosacea
Also known as: Acne rosacea, Adult acne, Vascular rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic vascular condition causing facial redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels, often resembling acne.
Signs & Symptoms
- Facial flushing
- Persistent redness
- Visible blood vessels
- Papules and pustules
- Ocular involvement
- Rhinophyma (thickened nose)
Causes
- Vascular instability
- Neurovascular dysfunction
- Inflammatory mediators
- Demodex mites (suspected)
- Genetic predisposition
Risk Factors
- Fair complexion
- Age 30-50
- Female gender
- Family history
- Triggers: alcohol, spicy food,heat, stress
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if persistent facial redness, flushing episodes, or visible vessels develop. Early treatment prevents progression.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary by individual. Consult a dermatologist for a personalised plan.
- Topical metronidazole
- Azelaic acid
- Topical corticosteroids
- Oral antibiotics
- Laser therapy
- Trigger avoidance
Understanding Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic, relapsing-remitting vascular inflammatory condition affecting the central face. It affects 2-3% of the population, more commonly in fair-skinned individuals.
Subtypes
Subtype 1: Flushing and persistent redness without pustules
Subtype 2: Persistent redness with papules, pustules, telangiectasia
Subtype 3: Advanced stage with rhinophyma (nasal thickening)
Subtype 4: Ocular rosacea with eye involvement
Pathophysiology
Vascular Component: Abnormal vasodilation and flushing response
Inflammatory Component: Excess inflammatory mediators
Neurovascular Dysfunction: Abnormal response to triggers
Possible Demodex Role: Suspected link to mite colonization
Clinical Features
Erythema: Persistent central facial redness
Telangiectasia: Visible dilated blood vessels
Papules/Pustules: Solid bumps, rarely with pus (unlike acne)
Edema: Facial swelling, especially in advanced disease
Ocular Involvement: Dry eyes, irritation, conjunctival injection
Common Triggers
Temperature: Heat (hot drinks, warm environments, fever)
Spicy Foods: Chili peppers, hot sauce, curry
Alcohol: Particularly red wine and beer
Stress and Emotions: Emotional upset, embarrassment
Intense Exercise: Strenuous activity causing flushing
Skincare: Harsh products, irritants
Medications: Vasodilators
Environmental: Extreme temperatures, wind, humidity
Progressive Course
Without treatment, rosacea may worsen over time. Early intervention prevents progression and persistent symptoms.
Ocular Manifestations
- Dry eye sensation
- Grittiness and irritation
- Redness of conjunctiva
- Blepharitis
- Rarely: keratitis, iritis
“When to See a Doctor”: New onset facial flushing or persistent redness warrants evaluation. Eye involvement needs specific attention.
Management Approach
Dr. Dr. Sanjay Agrawal provides comprehensive rosacea management including trigger identification, pharmacological intervention, and procedural options.
Schedule your rosacea consultation today.
Treated at Our Clinic
Have this condition?
Call the clinic or visit Dr. Sanjay Agrawal directly for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.