Skin Disorders: Red Cheeks

Spicy foods often trigger rosacea symptoms.

The skin disorder most often associated with red cheeks is acne rosacea, or rosacea, and it is a chronic skin disorder with no known cure. Untreated, rosacea can worsen. But with most people, the disorder seems to be cyclic in nature, flaring up at times with months of no irritation in between. The National Rosacea Society estimates that 16 million Americans have the skin disorder, but many don't know it.

Symptoms

Rosacea is characterized by flare-ups on the skin. These flare-ups can occur across the cheeks, on the chin and forehead. With time, the redness darkens and sometimes the condition of the skin thickens. Untreated cases of rosacea can lead to papules and small blister-like lesions. Blood vessels may also appear on the face. Many people with rosacea also experience irritated eyes, which is known as ocular rosacea.

Triggers

The real cause of rosacea is unknown but many things and activities that increase blood flow can make it worse. Many triggers that cause the cheeks to flush, or turn red, can be avoided. These triggers include, hot and spicy foods or beverages, alcohol, sun exposure, embarrassment, anger, extreme temperatures, certain foods containing histamines and drugs that affect blood vessels. These triggers do not cause the disorder but can worsen it, reports MayoClinic.com.

Prescription Treatment

While there is no cure for this disorder, symptoms are treated and some treatments often eliminate many symptoms of the disorder altogether. Physicians often prescribe medications, such as antibiotics, to improve health of the skin. Topical medications are often prescribed to reduce inflammation. Steroid creams are sometimes used to treat symptoms as well. Accutane is a popular acne drug that helps calm red cheeks in some rosacea sufferers.

Home Treatments

Use mild soaps, cleansers and moisturizers. Be gentle to your skin and don't rub your face with a harsh cloth. Buy non-comedogenic products that are free from fragrances, oils or alcohol. Avoid using exfoliants and scrubs because these products irritate sensitive skin and worsen symptoms, recommends Rosacea.org.

Prevention/Solution

There is no way to prevent rosacea because the cause is unknown. However, you can prevent rosacea from flaring up just by avoiding triggers and following your doctor's advice and following your treatment plan. Clear skin means something is working and you should continue doing what your physician prescribes.

References

• National Rosacea Society: Skin Care & Cosmetics
• MayoClinic.com: Rosacea
• Marshfield Clinic: Treating Rosacea