Midlife pimples, persistent redness and a flushed face—if that’s what you see in the mirror, you may be one of more than 16 million American adults with rosacea. This common skin disease appears between ages 30 and 60, with most experiencing it for the first time in their 30s and 40s.
Rosacea symptoms vary from person to person but include:
- Persistent redness, like a slight sunburn that doesn’t fade.
- Acne—like pimples.
- Enlargement of tiny facial veins.
- Stinging or burning of the skin.
- Eye irritation and styes.
- An enlarged, bulbous and bumpy nose.
Because of its effects on personal appearance, rosacea causes significant psychological and social stress. According to the National Rosacea Society, more than 90 percent of rosacea sufferers say their condition lowers their self—esteem, and over 40 percent report that it causes them to avoid public contact and social engagements.