Sunscreens with Physical Blockers May Benefit Those with Rosacea

Posted on September 17, 2010 | Leave a comment
Sunscreens for Rosacea

Sunscreens for Rosacea

Since sun exposure may lead to the development of rosacea, or a worsening of rosacea symptoms, it is important to implement effective sun avoidance measures and to regularly use a sunscreen.

According to a story in the summer issue of the Rosacea Review by the National Rosacea Society, those with rosacea should consider a ”sunblock” or “physical sunscreen” that contains titanium dioxide or zinc oxide when selecting a sunscreen.

These reflect the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them and tend to be better tolerated by sensitive skin.

According to Dr. Lisa Maier, dermatologist and Associate Professor in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Michigan, “sunscreens whose vehicles include silicone may be especially well tolerated”.

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Variety of Rosacea Symptoms Uncovered by New Rosacea Survey

Posted on September 8, 2010 | Leave a comment

The National Rosacea Society published results of a new survey that highlights the wide range of signs and symptoms experienced by people with rosacea.

See Rosacea Survey Summary.

In the survey of 1,289 people with rosacea,  71% of respondents said they had experienced persistent redness, and 63%  said they had suffered from frequent flushing. These are classic symptoms of rosacea subtype 1 (erythematotelangiectatic rosacea).  In addition, 63% said they had suffered outbreaks of pimples (pustules) and 61% reported experiencing bumps (papules). These are classic symptoms of rosacea subtype 2 (papulopustular rosacea).

In addition to these common effects of rosacea, the survey found that more than one-half of the respondents had been affected by a number of less well-known potential effects of the condition. 61% of respondents said they had also experienced eye symptoms, a condition known as subtype 4 rosacea (ocular rosacea). Among those who experienced eye symptoms, complaints ranged widely, including dry eye, a gritty feeling, eye itching, bloodshot appearance,  burning sensation in the eyes, watery eyes, reduced vision, and styes.

Other widely reported signs and symptoms included facial itching (41%) dry appearance (40%), raised red patches (30%), skin thickening on the nose also called “rhinophyma” (22%), signs beyond the face (21%).

Of those who stated that rosacea had affected areas other than the face, 48% said they had signs and symptoms on the neck, 46% noted the condition had affected the scalp, 42% said it was evident on the chest, 36% said it affected the ears,  16% said it affected the arms and 8% said it affect their legs.

“Many (of those with rosacea) experience a variety of manifestations in succession or at the same time,” said Dr. Boni Elewski, dermatologist and professor of dermatology at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. “That’s why it’s important for patients to be aware of the many possible effects of the disorder, so they know when to seek an evaluation and appropriate help from a dermatologist.”

IMPORTANT NOTE: 86% of the respondents reported that rosacea treatments and lifestyle modifications reduced effects of their rosacea.

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Rosacea Treatments Outlined by Dermatologist, Jeffrey Poole, M.D.

Posted on May 5, 2010 | 4 Comments
Dermatologist, Jeffrey C. Poole, M.D.

Jeffrey C. Poole, M.D., Dermatologist

Dermatologist Jeffrey C. Poole, M.D. provides an overview of rosacea treatment options and describes how they are shaped by the type of rosacea.

“Erythrotelangiectatic rosacea (rosacea subtype 1) may be the initial phase of rosacea for many people.  Patients are red, flush easily from various stimuli such as alcohol, caffeine or temperature changes.  Sun protection is key to prevent long term progression of this stage, which may progress.  Coverup makeups can be used, and the newer mineral makeups seem to work well and are non-irritating”, says Dr. Poole.

Dr. Poole adds that for rosacea subtype 1, “the best treatment is the Pulsed Dye Laser  (PDL) or intense pulsed light (IPL).  These lasers and light sources target the blood vessels that are the cause of this condition.  Generally 3-4 treatments are sufficient for excellent results.”

Dr. Poole points out that most of the prescription medications for rosacea target papulopustular rosacea (rosacea subtype 2). Topical medications (metronidazole and azelaic acid) and oral medicines, such as doxcycycline (Oracea) and minocycline, are very effective in decreasing the red pimples and bumps. Long-term use of rosacea medications is the rule, and flares tend to recur as rosacea medications are weaned. Dr. Poole added that “pulsed dye laser treatment may improve rosacea subtype 2 symptoms and decrease the frequency of flares.”

Rhinophyma, seen with rosacea subtype 3, generally only occurs with men and less commonly than a few generations ago.  Treatment of rhinophyma can be with ablative lasers such as the CO2 laser, or with an electrocautery unit.  Dr. Poole stated that “Many patients find improvement in their sleep and less snoring, as well as a improved cosmetic appearance, with treatment.”

Dr. Poole is a board certified dermatologist in Metairie, Louisiana. In addition to his private dermatology practice, Poole Dermatology, Dr. Poole is also an Assistant Clinical Professor of Dermatology at both the LSU and Tulane Schools of Medicine, acting as their Pediatric and Adolescent specialist, and remains a board-certified pediatrician. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery and the Society for Pediatric Dermatology.

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Perioral Dermatitis (Rosacea Variant) Triggered by Inhaled Steroids

Posted on April 26, 2010 | 2 Comments

Perioral dermatitis may be triggered by inhaled steroids according to a recent case report.

Perioral dermatitis is a fairly common skin disorder related to rosacea that is widely under-recognized by many non-dermatologists. It appears as tiny red bumps (papules) around the mouth and usually spares the skin closest to the lips. The bumps may itch or burn, and the skin may be red and flaky. Perioral dermatitis occurs most commonly in adult women, but may also affect men and children.

It is known that topical corticosteroids may worsen perioral dermatitis. In fact, a key component of perioral dermatitis treatment is to be sure that patients cease using any topical corticosteroids. However, the association of perioral dermatitis and inhaled corticosteroids used for the treatment of asthma, has not been widely reported.

However, a new case report published in Dermatology Online Journal, “Perioral dermatitis in a child associated with an inhalation steroid“, covers the case of a patient with perioral dermatitis that appeared to bed caused by inhaled steroids

This medication was discontinued and the patient was treated with oral doxycycline andalternating uses of topical clindamycin and metronidazole. There was quick resolution and at two months follow up the perioral lesions had completely disappeared.  In subsequent follow-ups there was no recurrence of the rash.

The authors concluded the patient’s perioral dermatitis was clearly caused by inhaled steroids.

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Rosacea Skin Care Advice from Dermatologist Todd Minars, M.D.

Posted on April 20, 2010 | 2 Comments

Miami dermatologist Todd Minars, M.D. provides people suffering from rosacea with a variety of rosacea skin care tips. These tips, called “Face Savers” are aimed at controlling rosacea outbreaks and reducing their severity.

Dr. Todd Minars suggested the following:

  1. “Clean your face gently no more than twice a day with Cetaphil cleanser or the medicated cleanser.
  2. Avoid hot showers, baths or saunas.
  3. Stay cool on hot or humid days (air conditioning and sip ice water).
  4. Avoid the sun.
  5. Switch from blades to an electric razor.
  6. Find substitutes for hot spices such as pepper, cayenne and paprika. Instead of chili powder, try a 2-to-1 blend of cumin and oregano.
  7. Try taking an antihistamine (e.g. Benadryl or Claritin) two hours before eating cheese, vinegar, processed beef or pork, or canned fish. It may also help to take an aspirin before meals high in niacin (meat, eggs, dairy)
  8. Minimize stress with proper sleep, deep breathing exercises, visualization, stretching, or yoga.
  9. Use transparent makeup with a green tint to help hide redness.
  10. Ask  (your doctor’s) aesthetician about skin care products that will not aggravate your condition.”

Dr. Todd Minars is in private practice at Minars Dermatology in Hollywood, Florida. He added his expert opinion regarding rosacea management to those of other leading dermatologists

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People with Rosacea Victims of Poor First Impressions

Posted on April 19, 2010 | 1 Comment

A rosacea survey of over 1500 people by the asked individuals to compare images of women with clear skin and images of the same women digitally enhanced to simulate rosacea symptoms on their faces.

The respondents formed judgments about the personalities of the women with papulopustular rosacea (type 2 rosacea), describing them as more likely to be insecure (33% vs. 13%) and shy (34% vs. 18%) than their counterparts. Compared to women with clear skin, women with rosacea symptoms were considered to be less intelligent (36% vs. 43%) and not as successful (18% vs. 32%).

“The survey results confirm that rosacea can have a strong impact on people professionally, socially and romantically,” said Samuel Huff, Executive Director of the National Rosacea Society.

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The Burden of Rosacea Reviewed by Dr. Richard Fried

Posted on April 19, 2010 | Leave a comment

Richard Fried M.D. PhD, a dermatologist and psychologist in Yardley Pennsylvania, discusses the burden rosacea places on the lives of people with rosacea blow to their pride and the prejudice of others to whom their disorder is all too apparent.

The article by Dr. Richard Fried , “Rosacea: Pride, Prejudice and Transparency” published in the April issue of Skin & Aging magazine describes how patients interpret and cope with their skin disorder and how dermatologists can help to alleviate their burden.

Dr Fried outlines how different rosacea treatment options are available for the redness, blood vessles, flushing and skin sensitivity of rosacea, as well as the anxiety that rosacea can provoke. He also describe alternative treatments for rosacea that may be of help for some patients.

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