Signs of Rosacea


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As mentioned above, rosacea affects mainly the skin around the facial area, neck, chest and the back of the scalp. It exhibits distinct characteristics which can easily be spotted and are not normally contagious.

What are the signs of rosacea?


  • Redness (erythema), especially in the facial region caused by the dilation of the blood vessels. This sign often resembles a sunburn which has a lasting effect
  • Bumps on the skin, also known as papules. In more advanced stages, the bumps may progress to pimples, also known as pustules and may contain pus. These bumps and pimples on the face are normally accompanied by a burning or stinging sensation.
  • Another common characteristic of rosacea is the appearance of blood vessels on the nose and face.
  • Stimulation of the Langerhans cells in the body, which are the cells responsible for combating the likes of tumours, causes an increase in their activity hence resulting in the stimulation of the nerves. These nerves send pain signals leading to an increased sensitivity of the skin to cosmetic products as well as to environmental factors such as the sun, wind and heat. The overall effect is a burning sensation in response to the application of chemical products and even exposure to the above mentioned environmental conditions.
  • The skin may also feel very dry and itchy due to an increase in the skin roughness
  • Red bumpy patches known as plaques may also become visible on the skin
  • The buildup of excess skin tissue on the nose may lead to the enlargement and thickening of the nose. This is a condition known as rhinophyma and affects men more than women
  • Oedema, another term for  facial swelling may also develop in individuals who suffer from rosacea
  • As mentioned earlier, rosacea may affect the eyes as well. This is known as ocular rosacea and includes signs such as constant watering of the eyes, irritation and burning, swollen eyelids and corneal damage resulting in a potential loss in vision.

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Further Information Rosacea