REDNESS/ROSACEA/FACIAL VEINS

Rosacea is a chronic disease involving the central face that most often affects those aged 30 to 60. It is common in those with fair skin, blue eyes and Celtic origins. It may be transient, recurrent or persistent and is characterised by its colour, red.

Rosacea can result in red lumps that look like pimples but there are no blackheads, whiteheads or nodules. Rosacea may also result in flat red areas, scaling and swelling.

Characteristics of rosacea include:

• Frequent blushing

• A red face due to persistent redness and/or prominent blood vessels – telangiectasia

• Red papules and pustules on the nose, forehead, cheeks and chin

• Dry and flaky facial skin

• Aggravation by sun exposure, exercise and hot and spicy food or drink (anything that reddens the face)

• Sensitive skin: burning and stinging, especially in reaction to make-up, sunscreen  and other facial creams

• Red, sore or gritty eyelids including papules and styes, and sore or tired eyes 

• Enlarged unshapely nose with prominent pores and fibrous thickening

GENERAL MEASURES

• Where possible, reduce factors causing facial flushing.

• Protect yourself from the sun.

• Keep your face cool to reduce flushing: minimise your exposure to hot or spicy foods, alcohol, hot showers and baths and warm rooms.

ORAL ANTIBIOTICS FOR ROSACEA

Antibiotics can reduce the redness, papules, pustules and eye symptoms of rosacea. The antibiotics are usually prescribed for 6 to 12 weeks, with the duration and dose depending on the severity of the rosacea. Further courses are often needed from time to time, as the antibiotics don't cure the disorder.

VASCULAR LASER

Persistent telangiectasia can be successfully improved with vascular laser or intense pulsed light treatment. Where these are unavailable, cautery, diathermy (electrosurgery) or sclerotherapy (strong saline injections) may be helpful.