Acne rosacea, commonly referred to as rosacea, is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It is characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and the development of pimple-like bumps. Unlike traditional acne, rosacea tends to occur in adults and has distinctive features. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and types is essential for proper diagnosis and management.

Symptoms:

1. Facial Redness: Persistent redness, often resembling a sunburn, is a hallmark symptom.
2. Flushing: Episodes of facial redness that come and go, often triggered by factors like spicy foods, alcohol, or sun exposure.
3. Pimple-like Bumps: Small, red bumps resembling acne papules and pustules may develop, especially in the central face.
4. Visible Blood Vessels: Small blood vessels (telangiectasia) become visible on the skin.
5. Eye Irritation: In some cases, rosacea can affect the eyes, causing dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation.
6. Enlarged Nose: In severe cases, rhinophyma may occur, causing thickening and enlargement of the nose tissue.

Causes:

The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but several factors contribute to its development:

1. Vascular Dysfunction: Abnormalities in blood vessels, leading to increased blood flow and facial redness.
2. Genetics: Family history may play a role in predisposing individuals to rosacea.
3. Dermatitis Mites: The presence of microscopic mites (Demodex folliculorum) on the skin may be associated with rosacea, though their exact role is still under investigation.
4. Abnormal Immune Response: Inflammation triggered by an overactive immune system may contribute to the symptoms.
5. Triggers: Certain environmental and lifestyle factors, such as sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and hot beverages, can exacerbate rosacea.

Types of Acne Rosacea:

1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: Characterized by persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, and occasional flushing.
2. Papulopustular Rosacea: In addition to redness and blood vessels, this type involves pimple-like bumps and pus-filled lesions, resembling acne.
3. Phymatous Rosacea: This rare subtype leads to thickening and enlargement of facial tissues, particularly the nose (rhinophyma).
4. Ocular Rosacea:Affecting the eyes, symptoms include dryness, irritation, and redness.