April is Rosacea Awareness Month — a time to educate, learn, and help. The National Rosacea Society (NRS) hopes to spread public education about this disease in order to encourage people to seek medical attention. Affecting an estimated 16 million Americans, rosacea is often overlooked and needs to be addressed.
What is rosacea?
The NRS defines rosacea as “a chronic and potentially life-disruptive disorder primarily of the facial skin, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions”.
Who gets rosacea?
Rosacea typically begins after age 30 on both men and women, but more frequently in women. Those with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are most likely to develop rosacea.
What does it look like?
It appears as redness on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or chin, and may come and go. It can occur on the chest, neck, scalp, or ears. As rosacea progresses, it becomes more persistent and blood vessels may be visible.
What are the signs of rosacea?
It should be noted that rosacea appears differently on different people, and some people may show more symptoms than others. The primary symptoms include:
- Flushing – facial redness that comes and goes. Often the first sign of rosacea.
- Persistent Redness – most common individual sign that resembles a blush or sunburn, but it does not go away.
- Bumps and Pimples – often confused for acne, but blackheads are not present.
- Visible Blood Vessels – small blood vessels may become visible.
Is there a cure?
There is no cure, and the cause is currently unknown, but medical treatment can control or reverse the signs and symptoms of rosacea.
What is the treatment?
Treatment is tailored to each patient due to the variety of signs and symptoms. There are oral and topical medications for the bumps and pimples, and topical therapy for redness.
How can I get involved?
What products help Rosacea?
Our Vital C line works wonders for those who struggle with rosacea!