Rosacea

Rosacea is a common but poorly understood chronic skin condition that causes a red face. It is most common in fair-skinned people of European descent, but it is getting increasingly more prevalent in Asians. Symptoms begin with episodes of flushing (when the skin turns red) which can be exacerbated by heat, emotion, alcohol, spicy food and sunlight. People with rosacea may experience acne-like spots and persistent redness of their skin. Small blood vessels in the skin can become visible. In the most severe cases, the skin can thicken and enlarge especially around the nose. Other than oral and topical medications, vascular lasers can help alleviate the redness on the face and induce a longer remission.