by Jed Eane

Created on: May 03, 2007   Last Updated: June 15, 2008

Rosacea is a very difficult skin condition to control, one of the reasons being that it's not known for certain what causes it. Some dermatologists believe that rosacea is caused by inflammation of the blood vessels in the facial skin, while others think it's the result of environmental factors. But without a definitive cause, it's difficult to know how to control rosacea, and, as a result, most sufferers spend a great deal of time trying a host of various products and skin caring regimens.

Rosacea is split into two types: rosacea and acne-rosacea. Rosacea initially appears as a red rash over the facial skin. When it first appears, it gives the appearance of a constant blush, or sunburn. Over time, the individual will usually develop bumps and patches of dry, raw-looking skin on their face. With acne-rosacea, however, the condition is complicated by the addition of acne-type blemishes. These aren't pimples that occur with regular acne, but rather tiny boil-like spots with no "head" to them.

Most dermatologists are of the opinion that a rosacea-sufferer should apply as little as possible to their face to prevent irritating it. Some dermatologists recommended water only. Cetaphil is one skin product that many dermatologists favor, both to cleanse and moisturize. Regardless of what product, if any, is recommended to use in a rosacea-sufferer's skincare routine, the general opinion is that the skin should always be treated very gently. Never apply anything to the skin that might irritate it.

For those individuals who suffer with acne-rosacea there's a temptation to use products formulated for acne. However, these are rarely effective as they are far too harsh and drying for skin affected by acne-rosacea. When all else has failed, some sufferers have found relief using antibiotics. Tetracycline is an oral antibiotic that's used to treat acne and can be effective in dealing with acne-rosacea.

Search on the Internet for rosacea remedies and you will find many: everything from neem oil to vitamin C to Chinese herbal treatments to "secret" potions sold by companies all over the world. It's very difficult to know whether these remedies do actually work (although there's usually someone somewhere claiming that they do). And what works for one individual may not work for another.

Dermatologists' advice on controlling rosacea includes: avoiding spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, extreme weather conditions, stress, and excessive exercise that causes your face to flush; and keeping out of the sun (always wear a sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin when outdoors). However, some sufferers find that these factors have little effect on their rosacea.

Rosacea can be distressing and seriously affect a sufferer's lifestyle. Unfortunately, at present, there is no known cure for rosacea, only measures that one can take to help control the condition.

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