Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels on the face. Sometimes it can be mistaken as adult acne, although Rosacea was one of the first skin disorders described in medical texts in the early 19th century, experts are still unaware of its cause.

This condition affects both women and men, however, women are a bit more likely than men to have rosacea. People of all skin types and ages are susceptible.

Rosacea often begins with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than other people. The redness can slowly spread beyond the nose and cheeks to the forehead and chin, even the ears, chest, and back can be affected.

It can be more than just red skin.  In fact, there are so many various signs and symptoms that rosacea has been divided into four subtypes:

• Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (most common type): Redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels.
• Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
• Phymatous rosacea: Skin thickens and has a bumpy texture.
• Ocular rosacea: Eyes red and irritated, eyelids can be swollen, and the person may have what looks like a sty.

If you are living with rosacea, you are in good company.  Here are some familiar names of people who have struggled with rosacea:

• Bill Clinton
• Renee Zellweger
• Cameron Diaz
• Janis Joplin
• Diana, Princess of Wales
• W.C. Fields (a film star in the 1920s and 1930s).

What Causes Rosacea?

No one actually knows the exact cause of rosacea, but here are some ideas:

• Rosacea runs in families. Many people who get rosacea have family members who have rosacea, genes likely play a role.
• The immune system Scientists found that most people with acne-like rosacea react to a bacterium called bacillus oleronius. This reaction causes their immune system to overreact. Its still not clear if this is a cause.
• H.pylori is a common infection in those who have rosacea. Though it has not been proven that H pylori can cause rosacea.
• Hormonal changes.  Menopause and andropause have been known to trigger this skin condition.

What we do know:

Rosacea is often aggravated by hot liquid, spicy food, alcohol, sun, and niacin.

Migraines tend to be three times more common in people with this skin condition. Diet helps prevent rosacea outbreaks, mainly an anti-inflammatory diet. Digestive support such as enzymes and probiotics can reduce or prevent flares.

There are also topical pharmaceuticals that work to control the skin condition such as metronidazole, compounded anti-inflammatory blends, and erythromycin.

Other treatments may include micro-needling with lightening serums, compounded topical formulas, hormone balancing/ replacement, treating gastrointestinal imbalances, and removing food sensitivities.

Dr. Schulz specializes in treating skin disorders from a naturopathic perspective.  Stop hiding and call now to schedule a complimentary consultation 971-270-0402.