Characteristics of Rosacea
There is so much to know about Rosacea that it can be overwhelming, so we will highlight the most important things to be aware of when caring for this condition. Rosacea is a skin condition where the skin's barrier is compromised and becomes flushed more easily and for an abnormal amount of time.
Reminder: Aestheticians are not able to diagnose – If you identify characteristics of rosacea in your client, refer them to a doctor or Dermatologist for a diagnosis. However, you can still modify your client’s treatments & homecare to care for rosacea without a diagnosis.
Rosacea There is so much to know about Rosacea that it can be overwhelming, so we will highlight the most important things to be aware of when caring for this condition. First, Rosacea is a skin condition where the skins' barrier is compromised and becomes flushed more easily and for an abnormal amount of time. This is important to know because overly sensitive skin mixed with persistent flushing often means that you need to be more careful with active products and treatments. It’s critical to start managing Rosacea as soon as possible- if it’s left uncared for it can escalate into moderate/advanced stages. Second, there are 4 stages or sub-types of Rosacea. This condition can be extremely frustrating as there is no proven causes and no cure. Rosacea will also not get better on its own and once it advances in stages it becomes harder to care for. However, most clients with Rosacea live comfortable lives with the help of proper skincare regimens, treatments and changes in their diet. Reducing and preventing flare ups are key to keeping skin healthy while managing Rosacea. Let’s review the subtypes:
Rosacea Sub-type 1 The first stage of Rosacea is called Vascular Rosacea. This stage is categorized by flushing that is abnormal or longer than normal, Telangiectasia are beginning to form, and tiny papules are spread evenly over the face.
Rosacea Sub-type 2 The second stage of Rosacea is called Papulopustular Rosacea or Acne Rosacea. This stage can be categorized by acne that is swollen, papules and pustules that are inflamed, persistent erythema, Telangiectasia is becoming denser on the skin, and there is visible vascular damage to the face.
Rosacea Sub-type 3 The third and most severe stage of Rosacea is called Phymatous Rosacea. This stage is categorized by swelling and possible facial disfigurement. There is lots of swelling, tenderness, disfigurement is visible, the skin is becoming intolerant to any treatment, and acne is very inflamed and can turn into nodules. This stage is very painful, and a doctor’s recommendations are vital at this point.
Ocular Rosacea This sub-type does fall into the normal stages, but rather is its own type of Rosacea. You don’t necessarily need to have other subtypes of Rosacea to have this condition. This is also known as chronic red eye that is constantly itchy, burning, and can involve reoccurring stys. Finally, daily homecare mixed with treatments can keep Rosacea client’s skin from getting flare-ups and looking it’s best. If you’d like to know more, watch out for this month’s free webinar featuring treatments to help reduce and prevent flareups in the skin.
If you have any questions and would like to speak to one of our friendly Master Aestheticians in your area, please email support@glymedplusaustralia.com.au
Written by The Institute of Skin Science