Has your sensitive skin worsened over time?

Sensitive skin is a common problem, but if your skin has begun to look painfully red, feels dry, and is easily irritated, it is possible that you have developed rosacea symptoms. In Part One of this three-part series on rosacea, we help you learn how to decode skin symptoms and determine your rosacea subtype. Knowledge is power, and getting to know your skin is the first step toward finding effective treatment options for symptoms of rosacea.

Rosacea Symptoms - Not Just Sensitive Skin

 A British Skin Foundation survey found that 60% of the U.K. population has suffered with a skin disease. Sensitive skin is a common complaint, but if symptoms become more severe and include an oily T-zone, dry patches, spots and flaky skin, this could indicate a skin problem called rosacea. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, rosacea the disease is most common in women aged 40-60 years old and in people with fair skin.  Research done by Irish Dermatologist, Professor Frank Powell, shows the the disease affects a higher proportion of white people, especially those of Northern European descent. In fact, it's common practice to describe rosacea as, "The Curse of the Celts!” In recent years, several fair-skinned celebrities have spoken candidly about their personal struggles with rosacea and acne. For example, Oscar winning actress, Kate Winslet, revealed how her own experience with rosacea flushing and red spots was far from rosy! As a result of celebrities sharing their experiences, others may feel encouraged to speak out about their rosacea symptoms and seek  help.

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While actress Kate Winslet looks flawless on the red carpet, she, too, suffers from rosacea.[/caption]

Red Skin or Rosacea?

Like its name suggests, rosacea is a condition involving redness of the skin. While it is normal to experience some mild skin flushing linked to embarrassment, heat, or exercise, permanently red or flushed skin is a strong indications of rosacea.

Some common rosacea symptoms include:

1. Dry, easily irritated facial skin
2. Red spots on the face and nose
3. Persistent redness of the central face
4. A tendency to flush easily
5. “Broken” blood vessels (known as telangiectasias)
6. Irritation of the eyelids
7. Enlargement of the nose (rarely).

Seborrhoeic Dermatitis is also associated with rosacea. This skin condition is characterized by persistent dandruff and flakiness of the eyebrows and sides of the nose.

Source:  The UCD School of Medicine Rosacea Handbook

  Rosacea interferes with how cells talk to each other and, as a result, prevents normal skin recovery and repair. In the same way as a computer virus causes software glitches, underlying health issues can cause red, angry-looking skin. These underlying issues often involve inflammation first of all, as well as problems with immune function.

Decoding Rosacea Symptoms

  First of all, when decoding your rosacea symptoms, it is essential to understand that the skin is a complex organ. Furthermore, your skin is the largest organ in your body, and helps to remove toxins, regulate body temperature, and provides a protective barrier against infection. Skin health is, in turn, affected by the function of every other organ in the body. This free Skin Assessment can help you to quickly identify any rosacea triggers and symptoms you may be experiencing. Answer the short series of questions with a Yes or No to find out if you have symptoms associated with the mildest (Type 1) or more severe (Type 3) form of rosacea. This analysis has been specially developed by the Medico Beauty Institute to help share our expertise and raise awareness of rosacea symptoms and causes. For a more in-depth analysis, contact us today to arrange an in-person or remote consultation. Our Certified Professionals are trained to assess your individual needs, using a 7-Point Skin Analysis so they can provide a skin treatment program that's right for you. These experienced practitioners offer tailored coaching and support so as to help you better achieve healthier looking skin. For a limited time receive a 5% discount on your first online order when you visit www.medicobeauty.com 

Rosacea Subtypes

  Dermatologists have developed a standard rosacea classification which they use to inform diagnosis and treatment, in addition to setting patient expectations. Three categories are used to describe different stages or, rather, forms of the skin condition. These rosacea subtypes are largely dependent on symptom severity. They range from mild (Subtype 1), to moderate (Subtype 2), to severe (Subtype 3), with another category (Subtype 4) that involves the eyes. Let's take a closer look at each subtype and their associated rosacea symptoms.

Subtype 1 Facial Redness / Medical Description: Erythematotelangiectatic

 

• Flushing
• Persistent facial redness
• Stinging
• Swelling
• Rough texture
• Dryness.

Mild Rosacea causes persistent flushing and redness.

Subtype 2 Bumps and Pimples / Medical Description: Papulopustular Rosacea 

• Persistent redness
• Bumps (called papules)
• Raised red patches (known as plaques).

Severe Rosacea causes spots and persistent redness[/caption]

Subtype 3 Enlargement of the Nose / Medical Description: Phymatous Rosacea 

• Caused by growth of excess tissue
• Known as Rhinophyma. 

Severe Rosacea causes enlargement of the nose (a condition called Phymatous Rosacea).

Subtype 4 Eye Irritation / Medical Description: Ocular Rosacea

 

• Eyes have a watery and bloodshot appearance
• Irritation and stinging
• Swollen eyelids.

Severe Rosacea causes swollen eyelids.

Source: The Rosacea Society  

Conclusion

Achieving and maintaining healthy skin is a complex process in rosacea, especially because there is no single cause for rosacea symptoms. Dermatologists and researchers have long suspected that rosacea symptoms are linked to chronic systemic inflammation. In Part Three of this series, therefore, we look at how new evidence is proving these suspicions correct. The work of several American physicians is especially relevant as these doctors are looking at how rosacea treatment may benefit from addressing other health problems. A collective of pioneering physicians, including Dr. Oz, Dr. Mercola, and Dr. Axe, share their knowledge online, publishing articles that provide a holistic viewpoint on health. These articles discuss the link between disease and internal factors, thereby helping to explain the connections between root causes, internal inflammation, and disease. In conclusion, decoding your rosacea symptoms and triggers is the first step on your journey to healthier skin. For a clearer view of your skin's needs, and, thus, the treatment options most likely to help your rosacea symptoms, get in touch today. Use this free consultation-form and for a limited time receive a 5% discount on your first online order. For more information on rosacea check out Part Two in this series, where we discuss groundbreaking research into rosacea causes and triggers.

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