Ladies, we’ve all seen those brave women battling rosacea online, sharing their stories of struggle. For those who love beauty, rosacea is definitely a major enemy!
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition where the blood vessels are more sensitive. In hot, crowded environments or after sun exposure, blood vessels can easily dilate, causing redness on both cheeks without itchiness, but rather a burning sensation.
Based on severity, rosacea can be categorized into three types: Type 1 is the mildest, known as erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, where patients experience frequent facial redness and increased tiny blood vessels. Antibiotic ointments can help control the condition. Type 2 is papulopustular rosacea, where the face remains red with papules or pustules, similar to acne, but concentrated on both cheeks. Oral antibiotics are required for treatment. Type 3 is the most severe, known as phymatous rosacea, where long-term skin congestion leads to a swollen nose, commonly called “rhinophyma.” Light-based treatments such as IPL or laser can be effective.
Regardless of which type of rosacea you suspect, seek medical help early and take preventive measures daily. It’s important to protect your skin from the sun, especially during summer, as UV rays can exacerbate rosacea flare-ups. In winter, be cautious of heating systems and steam from hot pots, as they can cause facial redness. Also, be aware that facial steaming for beauty purposes may worsen the situation.
If you have rosacea, it’s best to avoid foods that cause blood vessels to dilate, such as spicy dishes, curry, chili, and alcohol. These foods stimulate blood circulation, and patients may experience facial redness even after consuming small amounts of alcohol. Many patients wear masks for extended periods to cover the redness out of embarrassment, which can actually worsen the condition. Treating rosacea requires patience and time, so patients must stay patient and relaxed for the condition to improve.
In daily life, we can prevent and alleviate rosacea by:
Keeping skin clean, using gentle cleansers, and avoiding skin irritation.
Using oil-free and sensitive-skin-friendly moisturizers.
Avoiding prolonged exposure to strong sunlight and using sunscreen.
Managing stress, as appropriate exercise and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and improve skin conditions.
Maintaining good sleep habits, as sufficient sleep is crucial for skin repair and recovery.
In conclusion, rosacea is a chronic skin condition that requires long-term treatment and attention. Patients need to be patient, take care of their skin daily, seek timely medical help, and adjust their lifestyle habits according to doctors’ recommendations to effectively control the condition and enjoy a better life.