Acne rosacea (often referred to simply as rosacea) is a chronic skin condition that affects the central third portion of the face. It is a form of persistent, lingering facial redness over the parts of the face that experience blushing, such as the forehead, bottom part of the nose and the chin. The small blood vessels in those areas dilate and as a result become significantly more prominent and visible, appearing as thin, tiny red lines. There are several causal factors that are often linked to the development of acne rosacea.
It is believed that acne rosacea is caused by genetics and the environment, or a combination of both. People who have acne rosacea often have family members who have it as well. Also, excessive sun exposure and damage can lead to acne rosacea.
Aggravations
Many foods and beverages can aggravate acne rosacea and raise the blood flow to the skin's surface. Spicy foods, alcohol and extremely hot foods or drinks (such as coffee) can all make acne rosacea worse and result in the skin flushing.
Medications
Drugs that are capable of dilating the blood vessels (like some hypertension medicines) are also possible culprits of acne rosacea. Corticosteroids (drugs that are highly similar to cortisol, which is naturally produced within the adrenal gland) can also cause acne rosacea to appear.
Likelihood
Certain people have a much higher likelihood of getting acne rosacea. These people include individuals with pale, light skin (especially with freckles), people who blush or flush frequently, and people between the ages of 30 and 60 (particularly women going through menopause).
Other Common Causes
Other common causes of acne rosacea (for people who are prone) are saunas, hot showers or baths, vigorous physical activity, extremes in temperature (whether hot or cold), sunlight, being embarrassed or angry and emotional stress.
