A lot of people with rosacea, believe it just makes your face red or prone to blushing easily. But rosacea is more complicated than that, it can cause many symptoms that worsen if not treated correctly. There are even different types of rosacea your doctor can diagnose. Let’s find out more.
What Is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a long-lasting skin condition that affects over 16 million Americans. The cause is still unknown, and there’s no cure yet. However, research has helped doctors find ways to manage its symptoms.
Kinds of Rosacea
There are four types of rosacea, each with its own symptoms. It’s possible to have more than one type at once. These include:
- Subtype One
Many people know about erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, often just called ETR. It causes redness and flushing on the face, usually affecting the cheeks, nose, and forehead. If the rosacea isn’t managed well, this redness can also appear on the scalp, neck, and chin.
In the beginning, you might see occasional redness or visible blood vessels. But without treatment, it can get worse, leading to more frequent flare-ups that last longer and cover larger areas of skin or don’t go away at all.
Along with redness and visible blood vessels, ETR can make the affected areas feel warm and may cause tingling, stinging, or swelling. Some people also find their skin becomes very dry or scaly.
- Subtype Two
Papulopustular rosacea, also known as acne rosacea, causes redness, inflammation, and visible spider veins on the face, similar to other types of rosacea. However, it’s distinct because it also leads to acne-like breakouts. While acne can cause various types of pimples (like blackheads or cysts), papulopustular rosacea mainly causes large, painful blemishes called papules and pustules that form deep in the skin.
These blemishes are most common on the center of the face but can also appear on the scalp, neck, and, in severe cases, even on the chest and shoulders. Unlike teenage acne, which starts in adolescence, papulopustular rosacea is more common in adults, especially middle-aged women.
Besides the noticeable pimples, people with this type of rosacea might feel their skin is very sensitive, and the affected area might burn or sting. They might also experience extremely oily or dry patches of skin. Dry patches can become thick and scaly, forming hard, rough areas called plaques.
- Subtype Three
People with phymatous rosacea experience thickened skin that starts as small plaques and can progress to become bumpy and protruding. This texture is often described as similar to scar tissue. Many who have phymatous rosacea develop rhinophyma, a condition where the skin thickening around the nose causes it to become bulbous and enlarged.
This condition is more common in men and typically occurs when rosacea is poorly managed or untreated. Along with skin buildup, phymatous rosacea also leads to redness and visible blood vessels, which are seen in other types of rosacea. It can also make pores appear larger. While it’s one of the most severe forms of rosacea, it’s less common than other types of this skin condition.
- Subtype Four
Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, causing redness and inflammation inside the eyes, on the eyelids, and around the eyes. People with this condition may have bloodshot eyes, swelling around the eyes, or bumps on the eyelids similar to styes.
Symptoms include watery eyes, a burning sensation, and irritation, often described as having dirt or dust in the eyes. They can also experience dryness, increased sensitivity to light, and sometimes blurred vision. Ocular rosacea is frequently misdiagnosed because healthcare providers may not recognize that a skin condition like rosacea can affect the eyes.
Ending Note
All types of rosacea have their own symptoms, as well as various rosacea treatments. It’s crucial to work with a relevant medical professional to identify what triggers your rosacea—such as certain products, irritants, or conditions that cause flare-ups.
Visit us at Vital Clinic & Spa. Our professionally trained specialists will make a diagnosis and offer effective treatments for acute infections, chronic diseases, and other health conditions. Call us at (832) 533-8404 for an appointment.