Rosacea

Rosacea causes red, inflamed skin in an estimated 16 million Americans. At Integrated Dermatology of East Boca in Boca Raton, Florida, double board-certified dermatologist Alecia Folkes DO, FAAD, FAOCD, provides relief from rosacea symptoms, so you have clearer, more comfortable skin. Schedule your appointment today by phone or online through the website.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea causes your skin to redden and flush. You might develop small, pus-filled bumps and visible blood vessels. If you have rosacea, you go through periods of remission and flare-ups. Rosacea can affect anyone but is most common among middle-aged white women. 

Rosacea can’t be cured, but the symptoms are managed with advanced treatments provided by Dr. Folkes. 

When should I suspect I have rosacea?

Rosacea can show up in four different ways. Each type has slightly different symptoms:

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR)

This type of rosacea flushing results in swollen skin and redness, primarily in the center of the face. Your skin also has broken blood vessels and feels rough, dry, and sensitive. 

Papulopustular (acne) rosacea

This is the type of rosacea that most often affects middle-aged women. You develop acne-like breakouts, and your skin feels oily and sensitive. You may also have visibly broken blood vessels.

Rhinophyma

Rhinophyma causes certain features to appear thick and bumpy. It’s particularly noticeable on the nose but can also affect the ears, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Your pores may appear large, and you notice broken blood vessels. Men are more likely to develop this form of rosacea. 

Ocular rosacea

Your eyes can develop this form of rosacea. It makes them sensitive to light, appear bloodshot, and become watery, dry, itchy, and gritty. Some people with ocular rosacea develop cysts on their eyes and experience impairments in their vision. 

What causes rosacea flare-ups?

Rosacea flare-ups usually have specific triggers that include:

• Consuming hot coffee or tea
• H. pylori
• Spicy foods
• Eating foods containing the compound cinnamaldehyde, like citrus, chocolate, and tomatoes
• Skin mite (Demodex)

Sometimes rosacea flares up without an identifiable reason. 

How do you treat rosacea?

Dr. Folkes can help you ease the severity and frequency of rosacea flare-ups. She recommends you always wear sunscreen and stay out of direct sunlight, as the UV rays can trigger redness and flushing. You should also avoid exfoliating with harsh cleansers and steer clear of products that contain menthol, alcohol, and witch hazel. 

She encourages you to keep a food and activity journal that can track what foods, activities, and cosmetics trigger worsening symptoms. 

Medical treatments for rosacea offered at Integrated Dermatology of East Boca include oral antibiotics and prescription creams. Laser and light treatments and microdermabrasion can also help ease rosacea symptoms. 

Set up your appointment at Integrated Dermatology of East Boca by calling the office or online through this website.