It is estimated that around 6 million people in the UK are currently living with Rosacea. It is a common but poorly understood condition and can often be mistaken for acne. Symptoms of rosacea include permanent flushing and redness of the skin (particularly the cheeks, neck and forehead), pus filled spots and pimples, a burning/stinging sensation and small blood vessels becoming visible. In very severe cases of rosacea people can develop rhinophyma (thickening of the skin usually around the nose) this makes the nose appear bulbous and enlarged. This extreme symptom is usually only experienced by men and is very rare.
If you suffer with rosacea you may find comfort in knowing you are not alone. There are several celebrities who speak out about the condition and in the UK Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs and The Voice) regularly makes comments about how it impacts his confidence. He has also spoken about in his battle to try and control rosacea he has tried various ‘creams and potions but they all give me spots’. This is because people with rosacea tend to have very sensitive skin also, this means it is very much a case of ‘trial and error’ to find treatments which help.
Other celebrities who are prone to rosacea flare ups are Cameron Diaz, Renee Zellweger and Rosacea spokesperson Cynthia Nixon (Sex and the City).
Rosacea symptoms can be managed by getting to know your skin and the things which trigger a rosacea flare up.
If you would like to speak with others who are living with the condition log onto our British Skin Foundation forum here.
You can also read more about rosacea symptoms, triggers and treatments here.