Facial bumps are not always acne

By Jeanette Mesquita

‘What happened to your skin?’, ‘What’s that on your face?’ These are some of the common questions a person with rosacea is generally asked.

What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a complex skin condition that manifests itself through inflammation causing pustules, extreme redness and itching of the skin. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to observe any abnormalities in your skin, especially during summer, as what could easily be dismissed as acne, but could well be rosacea. Rosacea, often confused with acne, is not the same and requires a proper diagnosis and treatment by a dermatologist. If you experience facial blushing, visible blood vessels on your face, small swellings, burning sensation and even probably a swollen nose, seek medical intervention. Triggers include direct sunlight, oily foods, alcohol, or even stress, amongst many others.

Recommended treatment
It is best to seek medical intervention immediately if discolouration or discomfort occurs. The symptoms of rosacea can be very frightening, especially if you are unsure about what it is. The good news though, is that with the help of prescribed medication, therapeutic treatment and change in diet, one can overcome this condition.

The most imminent factor causing rosacea is heat from both external and internal factors. It is important to remember that each case is different, and one needs to identify one’s triggers and best choice of treatment. While it is more prevalent in middleaged women, Rosacea can affect anyone and if left untreated can cause the skin to peel off, causing immense discomfort.

Dermatologists normally advise a combination of oral medication and skin care using topical steroids as a common treatment modality. However, the intensity of the medication would differ from patient to patient given the severity of the condition.

Mere medication though, is not enough for recovery. In addition, one must avoid oily and spicy foods, especially non-vegetarian food, avoid direct sunlight, alcohol, hot showers, and avoid situations that cause stress; as all of these add to significant heat within the body. Certain makeup products too can cause equally harmful internal changes.

You also need to follow a skincare routine including DIY natural and herbal product-based home remedies which contain soothing ingredients like aloe vera, neem leaves, rose water, and lavender oil.

Attitude
Remember that while skin conditions can cause insecurities which demoralise confidence, it is important to understand that beauty runs skin deep, and each one of us are all flawed in our own ways. Surround yourself with supportive friends and daily doses of selflove and indulgences.

In order to encourage people with rosacea to fight the condition successfully, it would be inspirational for them to know that people have been able to recover from rosacea. Those who have recovered should actively engage in creating awareness and sensitising people about the condition.

(Jeanette Mesquita is a fashion and beauty influencer.)