Rosacea is facial skin condition that presents as redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Over time, the redness tends to become more persistent, in association with skin swelling, visible tiny blood vessels and small bumps or pimples. Sometimes, the eyes are also affected and may be watery or bloodshot. In long standing and severe cases the nose may grow swollen and lumpy.
Rosacea typically occurs after the age of 30. The exact cause is unknown but many factors may trigger flare-ups, including sunlight, alcoholic drinks, spicy foods, exercise, stress, anxiety and hot drinks such as coffee and tea.
Treatment may include topical antibiotic gels, oral antibiotics or isotretinoin in more severe cases. Isotretinoin should always be prescribed under the care of a dermatologist due to the serious side effects. In some cases, the use of laser therapy can be useful in reducing persistent redness, treating the visible blood vessels and to reduce the excessive skin thickness. It is also important to avoid the triggering factors.