April is Rosacea Awareness Month: Recognize the Signs & Take Action

Every April, we shine a light on rosacea—a common but often misunderstood skin condition that affects millions. Rosacea Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate, support, and empower individuals to recognize its signs and explore available solutions for managing this chronic condition.

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that primarily affects the face. It often starts with frequent flushing or blushing, which can progress into persistent redness, visible blood vessels, bumps, and even eye irritation. While rosacea can affect anyone, it is most common in adults aged 30 to 60, particularly those with fair skin.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea:

• Facial redness, often appearing on the cheeks, nose, forehead, or chin
• Visible blood vessels, also called telangiectasia
• Red bumps or acne-like breakouts
• Burning, stinging, or increased skin sensitivity
• Eye irritation, also called ocular rosacea, such as dry, red or watery eyes
• Thickened skin, most commonly affecting the nose, also called rhinophyma in advanced cases

What Causes Rosacea?

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetics
• An overactive immune response
• Environmental triggers, such as sun exposure, wind, extreme temperatures
• Certain foods and drinks, such as spicy food, alcohol, hot beverages
• Stress or emotional changes
• Skin mites or bacteria

Managing Rosacea: Treatment & Prevention

While there is no cure for rosacea, effective strategies can help manage symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Considering rosacea is a life-long condition, it’s important to not only treat symptoms but actively work to prevent them.

1. Identify and Avoid Triggers

Tracking potential triggers can help prevent flare-ups. Common triggers include:

• Spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Sun exposure
• Hot showers or baths
• Stress

2. Skincare Matters

A gentle skincare routine can minimize irritation. Look for:

• Fragrance-free cleansers
• Broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
• Moisturizers formulated for sensitive skin

3. Medical Treatments

A dermatologist may recommend treatment based on your symptoms, including:

• Topical or oral medications to reduce inflammation, redness, and acne-like breakouts
• Laser or light-based therapies to minimize visible blood vessels
• Prescription eye drops or treatments for ocular rosacea

4. Lifestyle Support

• Practice stress management techniques like meditation, mindfulness, or yoga
• Follow a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet, avoiding processed and high sugar foods
• Protect your skin from harsh weather conditions with daily use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and moisturizers

When to See a Dermatologist

If you experience persistent redness, bumps, or skin sensitivity that doesn’t improve, it’s time to consult a dermatologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly enhance quality of life and prevent your rosacea from worsening.

Let’s Raise Awareness Together

Rosacea Awareness Month is about more than recognizing symptoms—it’s about breaking stigma, supporting those affected, and promoting skin health education.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Whether you’re living with rosacea, supporting a loved one, or simply want to learn more, now is the perfect time to get informed and spread awareness.

If you have sensitive skin and frequently experience rashes, book an appointment on our website or give our office a call at 203-538-5682.