Rosacea is a chronic skin disease that causes redness, flakiness, and the formation of small pimples on the face. Though there are treatments that keep its symptoms under control, researchers have yet to find a cure or identify a distinct cause for the condition. Because rosacea can be embarrassing, it is not talked about very often, leaving many patients with a lot of misconceptions. Here's a look at four of those common rosacea myths, and the real truth behind them.
Myth 1: Rosacea is just adult acne.
Though many people with rosacea do have pimples that resemble those that acne sufferers develop, rosacea causes additional symptoms that acne sufferers do not have. These include flushing and excessive blushing of the face, burning sensations in the cheeks, an enlarged and red nose, and issues with swelling in and around the eyelids.
Myth 2: Rosacea is just a cosmetic condition, so there's no reason to treat it.
Some people who suffer from rosacea may have been told this by well-meaning peers and loved ones. However, living with untreated rosacea can take a huge emotional and mental toll on a person. In one study, 82% of rosacea sufferers said the disease had a negative impact on their life outlook. People with rosacea experience anxiety and self-esteem issues related to the condition. Even if treatment does not get rid of the symptoms entirely, it can make them a lot less noticeable, thus allowing patients to regain emotional and mental strength.
Myth 3: You'll eventually outgrow rosacea.
Unlike acne, which tends to go away as patients age and go through hormonal changes, rosacea tends to stick around for life. It is thought to be a heritable condition, and people of Welsh, Scottish, and English backgrounds are most likely to develop it. Rosacea is not infectious -- you cannot give it to someone (other than passing it down to your kids), and nobody can catch it by spending time with you.
Myth 4: Patients with rosacea should wash their faces with just water.
Because a lot of skin cleansers can irritate rosacea breakouts, this myth has been perpetuated. However, there are a number of skin cleansers that are not only safe for people with rosacea, but can actually help alleviate the symptoms. These include preparations that contain the active ingredients sulfa and benzoyl peroxide. Simple, fragrance-free washes also work for many patients, as long as they are applied gently without scrubbing.
For more information, contact American Dermatology or a similar organization.
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