Understanding Rosacea: Innovative Treatments and the Impact on Mental Health

Rosacea significantly affects individuals’ lives, highlighting the need for ongoing awareness and understanding of this condition. While a cure remains elusive, modern treatments offer hope for managing symptoms effectively. Dr Tarryn Jacobs delves into these innovative options, emphasising the potential for improved skin health and overall well-being.

Rosacea is often misunderstood as simply a condition of “rosy cheeks” or frequent blushing. However, it is a prevalent facial skin disorder impacting over 40 million individuals globally. Despite its commonality, a vast majority overlook seeking professional consultation, attributing the condition to mere cosmetic concerns. This under-recognition stems partly from the complex etiology of rosacea, which remains not entirely elucidated but is believed to involve overactive blood vessels, inflammation, and a microscopic mite known as Demodex.

The condition manifests in various symptoms, including consistent redness, visible blood vessels, red bumps, pustules, and in some cases, skin thickening and dry, gritty eye sensations. Rosacea’s flare-ups are predominantly triggered by specific factors like consuming spicy foods, drinking hot beverages and alcohol, emotional stress, and sun exposure.

The Psychological and Social Toll of Rosacea

Our facial appearance often reflects our identity, making skin conditions like rosacea not only a physical but also an emotional burden. The connection between mental health and skin disorders is well-documented, with rosacea’s visibility contributing to a significant emotional impact. The condition can lead to stigmatisation and false associations, such as with alcohol misuse. A comprehensive survey titled “Rosacea: Beyond the Visible” sheds light on the profound psychosocial effects of rosacea. It reveals that 86% of sufferers alter their lifestyle to cope with symptoms, and 20% make significant life adjustments to avoid social interactions, highlighting the necessity for greater awareness of rosacea’s psychological implications.

Innovative Treatments for Rosacea

Managing rosacea effectively involves a multifaceted approach that includes avoiding known triggers, utilising prescription medications, adopting suitable skincare routines, and, in some instances, undergoing device-based treatments. Several topical treatments, such as metronidazole cream, azelaic acid, brimonidine, and ivermectin, have proven effective in reducing inflammation and redness. Notably, ivermectin cream has gained attention for its unique anti-inflammatory and antiparasitic properties, offering significant improvement in skin condition within 12 weeks of use.

Skincare Strategies for Rosacea Management

For many with rosacea, sensitive and dry skin is a common challenge, necessitating a carefully chosen skincare regimen. The introduction of the Cetaphil Pro Redness Prone Skin range marks a significant advancement, offering clinically proven benefits for moisturising and soothing sensitive, redness-prone skin. Key ingredients like niacinamide and ceramides help enhance skin barrier functions, while caffeine and liquorice root extract work to minimise redness.

Conclusion: Navigating Rosacea with Optimism

The journey with rosacea extends beyond skin care, encompassing the understanding of its emotional and physical implications. However, with the right therapeutic strategies and skincare practices, managing rosacea effectively is within reach. Collaboration with a dermatologist is crucial in tailoring a treatment plan that addresses individual needs, paving the way for clearer, healthier skin and improved overall well-being.

Disclaimer:

This article was commissioned by Galderma. Speak to your dermatologist about the new prescription medicine indicated for papulopustular rosacea by Galderma. For medical regulatory reasons, we are not allowed to publish the names of prescription medicines. 

011 706 2339 | www.galderma.com/south-africa

References:

Steinhoff M, et al. Beyond the visible: rosacea and psoriasis of the face. The BMJ Hosted Content 2020. Available at: https://hosted.bmj.com/rosaceabeyondthevisible.