Rosacea and Sensitive Skin
Rosacea is one of several skin disorders referred to as sensitive skin. Approximately 50 percent of the U.S. population has a form of sensitive skin; 14 million Americans have rosacea. Both sensitive skin and rosacea are found in people of all ages and ethnic groups, and can be aggravated by cosmetic and personal care products.
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Types
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Sensitive skin is characterized by inflammation. Conditions classified as sensitive skin include acne, contact dermatitis, dry skin, eczema and rosacea. Rosacea is categorized into four subtypes: flushing and persistent redness, redness with pimples, skin thickening and eye rosacea. It's common for rosacea sufferers to have multiple subtypes and other forms of sensitive skin.
Symptoms
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The visible signs of sensitive skin appear as redness, hives, peeling, dryness, cracking and rash. Sensations such as burning, stinging and itching are common among sensitive skin conditions. Depending on the subtype, rosacea symptoms may include flushing, facial redness, pimples, dryness, visible blood vessels, eye irritation and, in severe cases, skin thickening.
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Causes
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The exact causes of sensitive skin and rosacea are unknown. Allergies and irritation to chemicals can trigger contact dermatitis and eczema. Rosacea may have either a genetic or environmental cause that swells the skin's blood vessels. Rosacea and sensitive skin are more frequent in people between the ages of 30-50, and those with fair skin.
Treatments
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Most treatments for rosacea and sensitive skin provide relief of symptoms. Redness, rashes and acne are treated with topical ointments or creams, and in severe cases, antibiotics. Visible blood vessels and thickened skin are repaired with lasers, intense pulsed light, dermabrasion or electricity. Moisturizers soothe the itch and sting of dry skin.
Condition Management
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Avoiding common triggers, such as fragrances, preservatives and dyes in personal care products will prevent irritation and inflammation. A gentle skin care routine, along with sun protection, can diminish the effects of rosacea and sensitive skin. Cosmetics appropriate for the affected skin can be applied to cover pimples, blood vessels or areas of redness.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit skin treatment applying image by starush from Fotolia.com
