It's often mistaken for acne or "red cheeks"; in fact, it initially looks like healthy skin – after drinking alcohol or being exposed to intense heat. This makes it so difficult to distinguish rosacea from normal facial redness. Especially since the skin condition often disappears quickly in its early stages. We at the 48grams blog know several people affected by it. No wonder – almost four million Germans suffer from this chronic condition. Dermatologists estimate that the number of undiagnosed cases is likely to be significantly higher for the reasons mentioned above. The bad news: there's still no cure. But there are ways to alleviate the symptoms. At least that's a glimmer of hope. Because this cosmetic condition is increasingly becoming a psychological one as well.
From acne to bulbous nose
Rosacea is one of those tissue changes that still poses numerous mysteries for doctors even after years of research. So far, only its progression has been fully understood. More details on this will follow later in this article. It is also statistically proven who is more frequently affected: mostly adults between the ages of 30 and 50; significantly more women than men. However, only men develop a form of rosacea that leads to dramatic bulbous growth on the nose. Furthermore, people with dark skin rarely suffer from this skin condition, while those with light skin are more frequently affected. But why these groups in particular? Good question, next question. It is assumed that a specific genetic predisposition triggers the disease – in combination with neurological factors, which in turn are triggered by external influences.
UV radiation, stress, alcohol and spicy food
Yes, it doesn't get any more specific than that. Except for the so-called "external influences." Scientists have identified the following: strong UV radiation, prolonged sun exposure, heat, cold, hot baths, saunas, stress, vasodilating medications, alcohol, nicotine, and spicy foods. You could say: a lot of what's part of our everyday lives. So, anyone who wants to eliminate risk factors now knows the list.
The four phases of rosacea:
Rosacea typically manifests in four phases. This doesn't necessarily mean that each stage follows directly after the next, nor that there are any discernible patterns. For example, the rosacea diathesis (the early stage) can appear several times in succession, and only after a longer interval does the disease progress to the next stage. Dermatologists have long recognized that the skin condition occurs in flare-ups.
Rosacea diathesis:
Rosacea initially evokes the image of grandma saying, "You have such lovely rosy cheeks." However, this soft glow doesn't just appear on the cheeks, but also on the chin, the middle of the forehead, or the nose. The neck or the base of the chest are rarely affected. The discoloration usually disappears as quickly as it appears. A word of reassurance: If you discover red patches on your face for the first time, don't panic. Even healthy tissue can sometimes be irritated. However, if the redness occurs more frequently, a doctor's appointment is essential. Because there is a risk of…
… Rosacea Erythematosus-Telangiectatica:
This is the scientifically named first stage of severity. The otherwise fleeting redness remains permanently visible. Over time, a recognizable vein pattern develops in the discolored areas. This worsening is usually accompanied by itching or burning; it is also possible for the skin to become very dry and flaky.A doctor must help now, it will soon come to…
…Rosacea papulopustulosa:
The term "papulopustulosa" is derived from the words papule (meaning nodule) and pustule (meaning pustule). This is certainly not appetizing – but unfortunately a very accurate description. Pustules develop in the reddened areas, which in the worst case can progress to lymphedema – small fluid-filled pockets. Here, too, the symptoms can disappear again after some time. This leads to this stage of rosacea often being mistaken for acne. After several flare-ups, the critical stage 3 occurs, the…
… Glandular hyperplastic rosacea:
This most severe form causes sufferers to develop bulbous growths. These so-called phymas develop on the sebaceous glands and result in a very persistent and painful change to the face. Those affected usually experience extreme psychological distress; often, a psychologist needs to be consulted. However, at this stage, there is a further distinction that affects only men. Rosacea leads to what is colloquially known as a "bulbous nose"; the growths develop on the nose.
The therapy, the care products
Phew, that doesn't sound very nice. But now for the "good news". Even though the disease is incurable, there are treatment options. The early stages, in particular, are very treatable. Care products Products containing rich aloe vera, mastic oil, or edelweiss extracts can alleviate the effects. Those who prefer prescription medications to natural remedies should consult a doctor. anti-inflammatory creams Treatments containing active ingredients such as tetracycline or azelaic acid can be prescribed. If the condition has already progressed to stage one or two, laser treatments (IPL) can provide good results. The concentrated light beam eliminates redness and dilated blood vessels. If the rosacea flare-up is particularly severe—appearing to be more than stage three—a doctor may also prescribe antibiotics.
Rescue through old home remedies
Traditional home remedies can be helpful at all stages. Honey is said to have a particularly soothing effect. This "liquid gold" has antibacterial properties and thus provides significant disinfection of the skin. Application is simple: apply honey to the reddened areas and leave it on for up to 30 minutes. Then wash it off with warm water. The effect should be visible after just a few applications. The same applies to using fresh aloe vera. Let the gel dry slightly and then rinse thoroughly. Experts also recommend the external application of fresh green tea. Simply soak a cotton cloth in the lukewarm liquid and place it on your face for five minutes. Repeat this twice a day. Here, too, relief should be felt quickly.
Rosacea and the gut flora
Finally, let's return to the triggering factors. According to recent studies, rosacea patients are ten times more likely to suffer from intestinal problems or diseases than the general population. The finding that this tissue disease is linked to gut health can be considered a fact. Doctors therefore recommend an anti-inflammatory diet. Sugar and fat must be reduced to a minimum, and processed meats and excessive dairy products, as well as coffee and soft drinks, should also be avoided. Fruits and vegetables, on the other hand, have positive effects.Generally speaking, a vegan diet is considered helpful for people with rosacea.
