Does your face often turn red for no apparent reason, even though you're not hot or embarrassed? It could be a sign of rosacea, a chronic skin condition that makes the face appear red and easily irritated, especially on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. Many people mistake rosacea for acne or sensitive skin because the symptoms are similar.
Because recognizing the signs early is very important, the sooner it is recognized, the sooner it can be treated appropriately so that the skin can be maintained well again and it will be easier to keep the skin calm and healthy.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that causes the face to appear red, especially on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. In some cases, small blood vessels on the skin's surface become more visible, accompanied by the appearance of small, pimple-like bumps that can cause a burning or stinging sensation.
This condition most often affects adults between the ages of 30 and 50, especially those with light skin tones. While not dangerous, rosacea can affect a sufferer's self-confidence, so it's important to understand the symptoms and seek appropriate treatment.
Characteristics and Symptoms of Rosacea
Rosacea symptoms can appear gradually and are often mistaken for acne or common sensitive skin. However, the symptoms have a distinctive pattern that distinguishes them. In the early stages, the face appears red, as if " flushing ," and over time, the redness becomes permanent, especially in the center of the face, such as the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. This redness is caused by the dilation of small blood vessels beneath the skin, making the blood vessels visible on the surface.
Here's a more detailed explanation of common rosacea symptoms:
- Permanent redness: The facial skin appears red constantly and does not disappear even when not exposed to sunlight or heat.
- Visible blood vessels: Small, bluish-red lines (dilated capillaries) often appear on the surface of the skin, especially in the nose and cheek area.
- Burning and stinging sensations: Skin often feels like it's burning, itching, or sensitive when exposed to certain skincare products, alcohol, or extreme weather.
- Ocular rosacea: In some people, rosacea also affects the eyes. Symptoms include red, dry, gritty eyes, and sometimes swollen eyelids.
Rosacea can recur, and symptoms can come and go depending on skin condition, exposure, and humidity. Redness can become permanent, and inflammation can worsen. Therefore, proper treatment and care are essential to maintain skin moisture and condition consistently.
Causes and Triggers of Rosacea
The exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, but experts suspect it's influenced by genetic factors and an overreaction of the immune system to certain stimuli. This means that those with a family history of rosacea or sensitive skin are at higher risk of developing it. Furthermore, an excessive inflammatory response in the skin can worsen redness and irritation.
There are several triggering factors that can worsen rosacea symptoms, including:
- Excessive sun exposure
UV rays can damage the skin's protective layer and dilate blood vessels in the face, triggering redness and irritation. - Extreme temperature changes
Weather that is too hot, cold, or windy can cause blood vessels to react rapidly and cause facial flushing. Even moving from an air-conditioned room to a hot outdoor space can trigger a flare-up . - Consumption of spicy foods or alcoholic beverages
The capsaicin content in spicy foods and alcohol can increase blood flow to the face, making the skin feel hot and red. - Emotional stress
When stressed, the body releases the hormone cortisol, which can worsen skin inflammation and accelerate the appearance of rosacea symptoms. - Use of unsuitable cosmetics or skincare
Products containing alcohol, fragrance, or harsh active ingredients like retinol and AHA/BHA can irritate the sensitive skin of rosacea sufferers, making redness and burning worse.
How to Treat and Care for Skin with Rosacea
Rosacea treatment focuses on keeping the skin calm, preventing inflammation, and avoiding factors that can worsen symptoms. Because rosacea sufferers tend to have sensitive skin, treatment should be carried out carefully and with gentle products. Here are some steps to take:
- Choose a Gentle and Safe Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
Choose a soap specifically for sensitive skin with a mild formula, free of irritating ingredients like alcohol, fragrances, or harsh detergents. Gentle cleansers help maintain the skin's natural oil balance without drying or irritating it. - Avoid rubbing your face too hard
When washing or drying your face, try not to rub your skin with your hands or a towel. Friction can worsen redness and damage the skin's protective barrier. Use gentle, pat-drying motions. - Protect Your Skin from UV Rays with Sunscreen
Sunlight is one of the main triggers for rosacea. Use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days. Choose products containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are safer for sensitive skin. - Recognize and Avoid Triggers for Facial Redness
Pay attention to foods or situations that trigger redness, such as spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, extreme temperatures, or stress. By noting and avoiding these triggers, you can better manage flare-ups . - Consult a Dermatologist for the Right Treatment
Each person's rosacea severity varies. Doctors can prescribe topical creams, antibiotics, or laser treatments as needed to reduce redness, swelling, and bumps on the face.
With proper care and a consistent routine, rosacea symptoms can be controlled, leaving skin looking calmer and healthier.
Treat, Protect, and Consult for Healthier Skin
While rosacea can't be completely cured, it can be managed with proper and consistent care. The key is identifying triggers, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and protecting your skin from sun exposure and extreme temperatures to prevent redness from recurring.
Treat your skin gently and use skincare products that are safe for sensitive skin. If symptoms persist, don't hesitate to consult a dermatologist for appropriate treatment and care. With the right steps, your facial skin can remain calm, healthy, and comfortable every day.
This article was written by Dr. Adelia Wulandari, Sp.DVE, FINSDV (Specialist in Dermatology and Venereology at EMC Sentul Hospital).