• Redness and flushing of the face
  • Acne-like lesions
  • Patches of dry, scaly skin
  • Visible blood vessels
  • Burning or stinging feeling
  • Gritty Eyes

The cause of rosacea is poorly understood. Flushing is an essential part of the condition, so experts believe that there is a vascular cause or that blood vessels are a significant component to the cause. It does appear that sun damage is usually is present. H. pylori is a bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the stomach that has been suggested as a cause of rosacea in some because there is a hormone that the stomach produces that encourages skin flushing. H. pylori is the same bug thought to cause stomach ulcers. It is possible to clear the infection with a combination of antibiotics taken by mouth, but its eradication has not been a conclusively effective rosacea treatment. Some think that tiny mites that normally reside in the hair follicles called demodex, may play a role in the development of rosacea.It is likely that there are vasodilating pro-inflammatory hormones or enzymes in the skin that permit the development of rosacea.

Recommendations cannot be generalized, since each person with rosacea will react differently to the same product.

Consider avoiding the known factors that may cause your rosacea to flare up. Rosacea flare-ups are most commonly triggered by sun exposure. Here are a few precautions you should take before spending time out in the sun.

Limit sun exposure: Reducing your time in the sun is perhaps the easiest way to avoid damage to your skin caused by UV rays. When outdoors, set a time limit and seek shade when necessary. Also keep in mind that UV radiation is the strongest between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Use Sunscreen: Sunscreens are an essential part of protection against the sun. Look for sunscreens that are labeled “Broad Spectrum”. They are often the most effective and offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Make sure to apply generously and frequently.

Cover and protect: Wrap-around sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats and clothing that covers your arms and legs, can offer extra protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Prescription
A doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics such as Erythromycin, Minocycline, Doxycycline and Tetracycline to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. In severe cases, oral isotretinoin may be used.Topical creams that contain ingredients such as azelaic acid, metronidazole and sodium sulfacetamide are often also used to treat rosacea symptoms, but can cause skin irritation in some cases.

Medical Procedures
A variety of techniques have been used to treat rosacea including electrosurgery, as well as laser therapy. Intense pulsed light and lasers such as the pulsed dye laser are effective measures to diminish vascular rosacea. CO2 laser treatments are usually utilized for cases of rhinophyma.