Rosacea

Rosacea is a long-lasting, non-scarring condition that produces chronic inflammation and dryness of the skin on the face. It most typically affects men and women between the ages of 30 and 50 and is often misdiagnosed as acne vulgaris and/or seborrhoeic dermatitis. It varies in severity and does not always get worse over time.

Rosacea typically begins as erythema (flushing and redness) on the central face and across the cheeks, nose, or forehead. It can also affect the neck and chest. As rosacea progresses, other symptoms may develop, including:

semi-permanent erythema
telangiectasia (dilation of superficial blood vessels on the face)
red domed papules (small bumps)
pustules (small collections of pus in the top layer of the skin)
red gritty eyes
burning and stinging sensations
(in advanced cases) rhinophyma (a red bulbous nose)

Although rosacea is almost three times more prevalent among women, it tends to be more severe in men. The exact cause of rosacea is not known, but most people who are diagnosed with it will have a history of reddened skin and acne or pimples. It more commonly affects fair-skinned people of north-western European backgrounds than Asians or Africans. It particularly affects people who blush easily and often.

To find more support and information about your skin condition, see the National Rosacea Society.

To learn about clinical trials that may be underway in Canada related to this skin disorder or disease, check out our Clinical Trials page.