Steroid-Induced Rosacea Treatment

Rosacea is a disorder characterized by acne-like breakouts, including reddening and swelling of the face as well as thinning of the skin and visibility of blood vessels. Although those most susceptible to the disease are people 60 and older, rosacea can affect people of almost any age. A common cause of rosacea in younger people is the improper use of topical steroid creams.

Significance

For many years, dermatologists have used low-potency topical steroids to treat skin conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, acne and even mild cases of rosacea. One reason topical steroids are most frequently prescribed is they contain anti-inflammatory properties. When used under a dermatologist's supervision, these medicines are safe for the face. However, improperly using them, or using them for extended periods of time, can cause a patient to develop or exacerbate rosacea.

Effects

When a patient is initially treated with topical steroids, his condition may respond to the treatment. But over time, tolerance to the medication builds up. The patient begins to develop steroid atrophy and thinning of the skin. Soon, the symptoms of steroid-induced rosacea appear. These are often more severe than standard rosacea symptoms. Inflammation may cover more of the face, inflammation is worse and the acne-like bumps are more pronounced.

Ceasing Steroid Medication

The first step in treating the condition is to stop taking the topical steroid. This is often a difficult step for patients. Inflammation symptoms will worsen when the application of the steroid is halted, and it may take several months to completely calm. Patients often report that they are tempted to use a steroid cream to calm the inflammation. To avoid an extreme reaction, the dermatologist may wean the patient off the topical steroid by prescribing progressively weaker versions of the medication.

Alternative Medications

To help fight inflammation and acne-like nodules, a dermatologist may prescribe a tetracycline or other oral antibiotic. A patent may also be given a prescription for an anti-inflammatory ointment. While these medications won't directly fight rosacea, they will help calm symptoms including itching, redness, and tenderness.

Avoid Triggers

In many cases, modifying a patient's behavior may help resolve flare-ups of the condition. Patients are typically advised to avoid activities that may trigger flare-ups of rosacea. Some of these triggers involve consuming certain foods such as spicy or thermally hot foods, citrus or yeast-filled foods. Other triggers may include activities that cause stress or anxiety. Patients are also advised to avoid activities that cause the blood to rush or open blood vessels, such as physical exertion or spending time in a sauna.