What Can You Do to Help Rosacea?

Have you been troubled by unexplained redness, swelling or breakouts? If so, these could be signs of rosacea. At Cayce Medical Spa in Columbia, MO, we specialize in helping patients identify rosacea and find the best rosacea redness treatment for their unique skin.

Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that affects over 16 million Americans, according to the National Rosacea Society. It commonly appears on the forehead, nose and cheeks, although other areas may be affected. Rosacea is not contagious, which means you cannot get rosacea from someone else.

Although there is no cure, people with rosacea can enjoy beautiful, healthy skin through a combination of professional and at-home care. Your dermatologist diagnoses rosacea by examining your skin to rule out other potential causes of your symptoms. The goals of your personalized treatment plan will be to reduce the visible signs of rosacea, ease discomfort and prevent symptoms from worsening. 

What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Rosacea?

As noted above, rosacea most commonly appears as facial redness on the nose, cheeks and forehead. Other affected areas may include the chest, ears, neck and scalp. There are four different subtypes of rosacea, which present with different symptoms. 

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR)

ETR rosacea causes the familiar redness, flushing and visible, broken blood vessels often associated with the condition. Other symptoms may include swollen and sensitive skin, a stinging or burning sensation and dry, rough or scaly skin. 

Papulopustular or Acne Rosacea

This subtype causes acne-like breakouts, usually in middle-aged women. You may experience oily skin, sensitivity, broken blood vessels and raised patches of skin known as plaques. Your skin may also feel hot and tender to the touch. 

Rhinophyma

This rare form of rosacea causes a thickening of skin around the nose and sometimes the chin, forehead, cheeks and ears. Other symptoms may include enlarged pores and visible, broken blood vessels. Over time, this may cause the nose to appear larger. This type of rosacea occurs most commonly in men. 

Ocular Rosacea

Symptoms of ocular rosacea mostly affect the eye area, causing bloodshot or watery eyes and a gritty feeling in your eyes. Other signs include burning or stinging in the eyes, dry, itchy eyes and cysts on the eyelids. Some patients may experience diminished vision or increased sensitivity to light. People with ocular rosacea may also develop skin problems common to other subtypes. 

What Causes Rosacea?

The exact cause of rosacea remains unknown, but researchers have identified a number of factors which may increase your risk. 

• Rosacea is most common between the ages of 30 and 50, although children and teens may be affected. 
• Women are more likely to get rosacea, but men tend to have more severe symptoms. 
• People with fair skin, light hair, and blue eyes are at greater risk. 
• There may also be a genetic component, as people with a family history of rosacea tend to be at greater risk. 
• Smoking may increase your risk of rosacea. 
• Scientists have also found that people with rosacea tend to have elevated levels of the skin mite Demodex folliculorum. A certain gut bacteria (Helicobacter pylori) may also be a factor.

What Rosacea Redness Treatments Are Available?

At Cayce Medical Spa in Columbia, MO, your dermatologist will develop a personalized care plan to treat rosacea and minimize flare-ups. Options may include:

• Topical or oral medications: These can control redness, swelling, and breakouts. Some skin products for rosacea work in as little as 12 hours, but must be used regularly
• Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics can help manage severe redness and acne-like pimples.
• IPL laser treatments: Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), such as Lumecca by InMode, can be highly effective at reducing vascular lesions and pigmentation linked to rosacea. Some patients see impressive results after just a few treatments.
• Microneedling: For those with thickened skin due to rosacea.

How Can You Avoid Rosacea Flare-Ups?

In many patients, rosacea symptoms may go away for weeks or months at a time, only to reappear later. There are many common factors that can trigger flare-ups, although they will vary from person to person. 

• Spicy foods: (cayenne, red peppers, tomatoes, chocolate, citrus)
• Alcohol and caffeine: Wine, hard liquor, coffee, and tea
• Extreme temperatures: Both heat and cold, including sun exposure and wind
• Emotional stress: Family or work-related stress can worsen rosacea
• Exercise: Sweat and dirt can trigger flare-ups—wash your face after activity
• Certain medications: Especially those that dilate blood vessels

Best Skin Products and Face Care for Rosacea

Along with professional treatments and avoiding flare-up triggers, your day-to-day skin care routine can help treat rosacea redness and keep your skin calm:

• Cleanse gently: Use a mild cleanser and avoid scrubbing. Rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
• Apply sunscreen daily: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher). Hats, sunglasses, and shade help protect skin.
• Moisturize: Select oil-free, water-based moisturizers, and avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol or menthol.
• Patch test all new products: Test on a small area of skin and wait 24–72 hours to make sure there is no irritation.
• Choose the right skin products for rosacea: Look for fragrance-free, non-irritating, dermatologist-recommended formulas.

Daily self-care also helps: manage stress through relaxation techniques, get quality sleep, and eat a healthy diet. After workouts, cleanse your face to prevent irritation.

Expert Rosacea Care in Columbia, MO

If you have rosacea, or think you may have it, Cayce Dermatology Center and Medical Spa in Columbia, MO, is here to help. Our medical team will develop an effective rosacea redness treatment, guidance on the best face care for rosacea and recommendations for the top skin products for rosacea. 

Contact us online to schedule an appointment. We look forward to answering your questions and helping you achieve the beautiful, healthy skin you deserve!