Rosacea: Diagnosis and Prevention
Diagnosis
Usually, a doctor could diagnose rosacea based on the history of redness and the appearance of the skin. In the early stages of rosacea, the rash can sometimes be mistaken for sunburn, acne, hot flashes of menopause or allergy to cosmetics.
Duration
The symptoms of rosacea often come and go in cycles, often triggered by substances and situations that make your face turn red. If you seek medical help and follow the medical treatment, you can improve the condition of the skin and may stop or reverse the progression of this condition.
Prevention
There is no way to prevent rosacea, but symptoms can be reduced by recognizing the following triggers: hot drinks, alcohol, spicy foods, stress, sunlight, heat or cold. These conditions increase blood flow and cause small blood vessels of the face get larger (dilate). If you have rosacea, try to identify specific triggers and modify them or avoid them altogether.
To clean or moisturize your face, facial products should be selected not to burn, irritate or cause erythema when they are applied. You should wash your face with warm water and mild soap, using the tip of your fingers to gently apply soap. You should also avoid toners, astringents, or exfoliating agents and products that contain alcohol or polish and acetone. The hydroxy acids and tretinoin (eg Retin A) may sensitize the skin to sun exposure and may worsen rosacea.
Sunscreens and sunblocks should be used regularly and without restrictions to protect the face. Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. If chemical sunscreens cause itching, use sunscreen for the body, containing titanium oxide or zinc.