Read Full Article HereApril is Rosacea Awareness Month, a dedicated time to shine a light on this common but often misunderstood skin condition. It’s estimated that more than 14 million Americans are affected by rosacea, yet many people may not realize they have this chronic skin condition.
According to Certified Physician Assistant Kelsey Bodell of U.S. Dermatology Partners Greenville, “Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that comes and goes in flareups. It often causes redness, bumps, and irritation—especially on the cheeks, nose, and forehead. While there’s no cure, the good news is that there are many ways we can manage it and help patients feel more comfortable in their skin.”
So what exactly is rosacea and what should you do if you think you might have it?
What Does Rosacea Look and Feel Like?
Rosacea shows up in many different ways, and symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people might feel like they’re always blushing or flushed. Others notice small pimples, dry patches, or visible veins on their face. It can even make your skin feel itchy, sensitive, or burn.
Common signs of rosacea include:
- Constant redness on the cheeks, nose, or forehead
- Small, red bumps that can look like acne
- Swollen, sensitive skin that may burn or itch
- Visible blood vessels (commonly known as spider veins)
- In more severe cases, thickened skin, especially on the nose (a condition known as rhinophyma)
“If you’re noticing these symptoms regularly, especially if they come and go in cycles, it’s time to talk to a dermatologist,” says Dermatology Certified Physician Assistant Kelsey Bodell.
What Causes Rosacea?
Despite extensive research, the exact causes of rosacea remain unclear. However, it’s likely due to a mix of factors including:
- Genetics – A family history of rosacea increases the likelihood of developing this condition.
- Blood vessel issues – People with rosacea tend to have vessels that dilate more easily, contributing to redness and visible spider veins.
- Immune system response – An overreaction to certain triggers can lead to chronic inflammation and heightened skin sensitivity triggering flareups in rosacea symptoms.
What Triggers Rosacea Flareups?
Everyone’s skin is different, but some things are known to make rosacea symptoms worse. Common triggers include:
- Sun exposure
- Hot or spicy foods
- Alcohol consumption
- Hot drinks like coffee or tea
- Stress or emotional changes
- Extreme temperatures or harsh wind
- Skincare products with strong fragrances or irritating ingredients
“Finding your personal triggers is key to controlling rosacea,” says Kelsey Bodell. “We recommend patients keep a diary to track what might be setting off their flareups, whether it’s certain foods, environmental exposures, or other activities.”
How Dermatologists Can Help Manage Rosacea
Even though there’s no permanent cure, rosacea can be managed properly with the right treatment plan. Kelsey Bodell of the U.S. Dermatology Partners office in Greenville emphasizes that seeing a dermatologist makes a big difference in improving both skin appearance and quality of life. “There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for rosacea,” she adds. “Each patient’s skin is different, so we work together to create a plan that works best for you.”
Here are common ways dermatologists treat rosacea:
- Topical creams and gels – Prescription creams like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin help reduce redness and inflammation.
- Oral medications – Low-dose antibiotics like doxycycline can calm inflammation and bumps, while other medications may be used for more severe cases.
- Laser treatments – Laser therapies help reduce redness and visible blood vessels, improve skin texture, and relieve pain associated with rosacea. Lasers can also treat thickened skin that may develop in advanced cases.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to See a Dermatologist
Rosacea can look like other skin conditions, so getting the right diagnosis is important. A dermatologist can help you:
- Get a proper diagnosis of what’s really going on with your skin
- Create a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes
- Get access to advanced treatments not available over the counter
Dermatology Physician Assistant Kelsey Bodell adds, “Living with rosacea doesn’t mean you have to suffer. With proper care, patients can enjoy clearer, healthier skin and feel more confident every day.”
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Skin
If you’re dealing with facial redness, sensitivity, or bumps that just won’t go away, don’t wait to get help. Rosacea Awareness Month is a great reminder to schedule a skin exam with a dermatologist.
U.S. Dermatology Partners Greenville is located at 3800 Joe Ramsey Blvd E., Greenville, TX 75401. To schedule an appointment, call 430.413.0570 or visit www.usdermatologypartners.com/greenville.
