Skin Care for Rosacea By Kyle Roderick ThirdAge Staff thirdage.com

Affecting 14 million Americans -- including former President Bill Clinton -- rosacea is an embarrassing and potentially disfiguring facial disorder. Yet a recent Gallup survey found that 78 percent of Americans have no knowledge of rosacea. We've assembled the following report to help you recognize the symptoms and get the proper treatment.

Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha) typically develops after the age of 30 and is characterized by a red-faced, acne-like appearance, visible blood vessels and, in advanced cases, a swollen and bumpy nose. See a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment if you're experiencing one or more of the following "red flags":

Fleeting or persistent redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Small visible blood vessels on the face. Bumps or pimples on the face. Watery or bloodshot eyes.

While the cause of rosacea is unknown, most cases are easily treated with oral and topical antibiotics, followed by long-term therapy with only the topical medication to maintain remission. You can find a dermatologist in your area who treats rosacea by visiting the National Rosacea Society Web site or calling their toll-free number, 1-888-NO-BLUSH.

"While there is no cure for rosacea, its symptoms can be effectively controlled with medical therapy and lifestyle changes," says dermatologist Dr. John Wolf, chairman of dermatology, Baylor College of Medicine.

Certain factors that activate blushing and flushing are known to aggravate rosacea. Sun exposure, alcohol, spicy foods, emotional stress, hot or cold weather and heated beverages are all culprits, so moderating behaviors can help many patients manage the condition.

Because rosacea sufferers often have a red face and nose, the myth persists that they are all alcoholics. In fact, while alcohol is known to intensify rosacea in some people, the symptoms can be just as intense, or more so, in teetotalers.

Ocular rosacea, characterized by watery or bloodshot eyes, also afflicts many rosacea patients. This condition is potentially serious, as it can lead to substantial discomfort and, in extreme cases, impairment of vision.

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Use makeup to cover up rosacea.

-- Anonymous, May 07, 2001