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Understanding the 4 Types of Rosacea

Associated Skin Care Specialists Blog Understanding the 4 Types of Rosacea
Understanding the 4 Types of Rosacea

Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by facial redness, swelling, and acne-like bumps, rosacea can cause both physical discomfort and emotional distress. 

What you may not realize is that rosacea comes in more than one form. There are four distinct subtypes of the skin condition, each with its own set of symptoms and treatments.

At Associated Skin Care Specialists, our skilled, board-certified dermatologists want to help you better understand the four types of rosacea, how to recognize them, and the treatments available to keep symptoms under control.

About rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that most often affects the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Symptoms vary but tend to come and go, often triggered by factors such as spending too much time in the sun, weather changes, emotional stress, and certain lifestyle habits.

Although rosacea has no cure, we have effective treatments that can reduce symptoms and minimize the frequency of flare-ups.

Four types of rosacea

Facial redness is commonly associated with rosacea, but the condition presents in different ways, depending on which type you have. The four types of rosacea include:

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea causes persistent facial redness and visible blood vessels. This type of rosacea may resemble frequent flushing that often worsens over time without treatment. 

Papulopustular rosacea

In addition to redness and visible blood vessels, papulopustular rosacea causes fluid-filled pimples. These breakouts are often mistaken for traditional acne.

Phymatous rosacea

Phymatous rosacea leads to thickened, swollen, and bumpy skin, usually on the nose. Over time, this can cause the tip of the nose to enlarge or appear bulbous.

Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, making them red, dry, and irritated. They condition can also cause a burning or gritty sensation.

Although rosacea is classified into subtypes, it’s possible to experience more than one type or for symptoms to evolve over time. For example, you may start with facial flushing and then develop acne-like bumps. Early treatment can help slow progression and prevent symptoms from worsening.

Common rosacea triggers and treatments

Rosacea triggers can vary from person to person, and treatment is always individualized. Common triggers include:

Treatment focuses on reducing symptoms and preventing flare-ups and may include medications, laser therapy, or surgery. Regardless of which subtype they have, everyone with rosacea should use a gentle skin cleanser and apply sunscreen daily to protect sensitive skin. 

When to see a dermatologist

Because rosacea can look like other skin conditions, it’s essential that you see a dermatologist if you experience persistent redness, swelling, or irritation. An accurate diagnosis, especially early on, ensures you get the most effective treatment and best chance of preventing the condition from progressing.

Rosacea is common, but also highly treatable. Our dermatology experts can evaluate your skin and develop a plan to relieve both the physical discomfort and emotional impact of rosacea.

We provide expert dermatology care at our locations in Fridley, Eden Prairie, Coon Rapids, Blaine, Maple Grove, and Minneapolis, Minnesota. Call the office nearest you today to schedule your consultation. 

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