ROSACEA

RosaceaTreatment - Rosacea-Ltd

2011-05-12T08:23:00.000-07:00

Treatment with Rosacea-Ltd results in a visible decrease in facial redness. Most rosacea sufferers noted significant results in less than two weeks after starting Rosacea-Ltd.

Treatment with Rosacea-Ltd caused a rapid clearing of rosacea papules and pustules within five to ten days, while assisting in the prevention of future breakouts.

To appy the Rosacea-ltd disks - Leave the face wet after washing and apply Rosacea-Ltd by simply gliding the disk over the affected areas, the ingredients are dissolved onto the affected areas leaving an invisible application that is not noticeable on the skin. Rosacea-Ltd is not a "cover up cosmetic" as it is invisible on the skin but using Rosacea-Ltd according to your customized directions will result in a visible difference in the appearance and condition of your skin.

Rosacea-Ltd has more than 99% undiluted natural ingredients with a pH of 7.0 (the pH balance of normal skin). Rosacea-Ltd is also free of any potentially irritating preservatives, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and Quaternium-15, and contains no irritating fragrances.

Order Rosacea-Ltd today and start seeing results next week.

Peri-oral Dermatitis

2010-11-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

When treating the symptoms of rosacea, one may observe a rosacea-like eruption around the mouth area. Known as perioral dermatitis, perioral refers to the facial area around the mouth while dermatitis pertains to inflammation, redness, or irritation of the skin. This inflammation generally consists of small red bumps or even pus bumps and mild peeling as the skin is extremely aggravated.

Perioral dermatitis is often aggravated by fluoridated or tartar-control toothpaste, chapstick, the ingredients in lipstick, and mouthwash. It is also believed that cinnamon, cosmetics, moisturizers, topical steroids, and even residue from asthma inhalers containing steroids contribute to perioral dermatitis. Hormones, sunlight, and stress can cause perioral dermatitis to be more severe. Perioral dermatitis is a common skin problem that mostly affects young women, however, occasionally men and children are affected by it.

Perioral dermatitis symptoms characteristically involve the mouth area, but do not affect the lips themselves. There may also be some flaking of the skin at the site of occurrence. Many times if the flaking is isolated to the lip area it may be mistaken for chapped lips. Perioral dermatitis may be considered a variant of rosacea or as a distinct and separate skin condition.

Although rosacea papules may appear in the perioral area, perioral dermatitis without rosacea symptoms cannot be classified as a variant of rosacea. Perioral dermatitis is characterized by symptoms of microvesicles, scaling, and peeling.

Often the skin around the nose is affected too, and sometimes it can affect the area under and around the eyes. When perioral dermatitis expands to include the eye area, it should more correctly be termed "periocular", or even, "periorificial" dermatitis. Periocular dermatitis consists of similar flaking and redness around the eyes and eyelids with or without the appearance of small papules or pustules.

The Symptoms of Rosacea

2010-08-20T08:39:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea include patchy flushing and redness and inflammation, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and around the mouth. Rosacea typically appears between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects more women than men. As the patient becomes older, acid accumulates with the body organs, bones, in the face and in the brain. We all have known for years that the largest blood supply is to the head with the brain, and thus the face always having a larger blood supply.

Rosacea is a chronic or long term skin disorder that most often affects the nose, cheeks, and forehead. Rosacea is persistent and usually worsen with time which results in changes in appearance and self-esteem. Most cases can be controlled easily by avoiding factors that trigger flushing, using sun protection, and by keeping the body well hydrated with water.

What is Rosacea Ltd?

2010-06-24T07:58:00.000-07:00

Rosacea-Ltd III is a topical treatment system especially designed for skin that is sensitive or inflamed due to rosacea, adult acne and seborrheic dermatitis. Rosacea-Ltd III is not a drug. It is composed of natural minerals, which help nourish damaged and irritated skin often related to rosacea. Rosacea-Ltd III promotes healthy looking skin. Within weeks, you will notice positive changes in the condition of your skin.

One of the main components of rosacea is facial redness. Facial redness or erythema is best defined as a lengthy flush of embarrassment or emotion in a social situation that may last for a few minutes to many hours. While for many others it is the more constant redness or blotchy flushed appearance that becomes the cause of embarrassment. The redness is generally located on the cheek area but can spread down to the chin, neck, or even upper chest. In some cases the forehead may also be involved. This redness can be associated with many things such as food, dust, environmental or chemical allergies, stress, over-exertion, exercise, alcohol, extreme heat or cold. If the redness becomes more permanent or constant, one may suspect the skin condition known as rosacea.

Rosacea Facial Redness

2010-04-27T09:52:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea can vary from person to person, however there are many commonalities. One of the earliest symptoms of rosacea is flushing or diffuse redness. Facial redness or erythema is also the most common symptom of rosacea. Rosacea facial redness is caused by hundreds of tiny dilated blood vessels near the surface of the facial skin that become inflamed or dilated due to many rosacea triggers.

Facial redness or erythema is defined as a flush of embarrassment or emotion in a social situation that may last for a few minutes to many hours. For others it is a more consistent redness or blotchy flushed appearance. The redness is generally located on the cheek area but can spread down to the chin, neck or even upper chest. In some cases the forehead may also be involved. This redness can be associated with many things such as food, dust, environmental or chemical allergies, stress, over-exertion, exercise, alcohol, extreme heat or cold. If the redness becomes more permanent or constant, one may suspect the skin condition known as rosacea.

Rosacea flushing may also be defined as a hot burning sensation 'of sensory feelings' like a sunburn. In the early stages of rosacea the redness may come and go. In the later stages of rosacea, the flushing effect becomes more permanent. The facial redness or flushing may last anywhere from hours to days at a time.

Treatment of rosacea flushing needs to begin with an understanding of what causes or influences your rosacea flushing. Rosacea sufferers have on average more facial blood vessels than the general population, or they have blood vessels, which are more prominent or severely damaged. Consequently, anything that stimulates facial dilation cannot be handled easily or properly. Understanding what causes the vessels to dilate will help you in controlling the factors that aggravate a rosacea flush. Controlling the dilation is key to controlling rosacea.

The International Rosacea Foundation

2010-03-04T09:37:00.000-08:00

The International Rosacea Foundation is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to make available easy readable rosacea symptom and the best rosacea treatment information on one web site. This information has been chosen from medical books, medical journal articles, and on the web and with available credits to those rosacea writers. Information provided by the International Rosacea Foundation about products and the best rosacea treatments, medical conditions, and symptoms, has been obtained from the manufacturer's prescription product information inserts and from their web sites sponsoring these products. Rosacea conditions and treatments may vary from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored for each individual case. Therefore, we do not answer individual questions about your skin condition. The secondary mission is to provide research for the best rosacea treatments for rosacea sufferers.

The International Rosacea Foundation provides the most informed and accurate rosacea treatment information that is easy to read and concise with the rosacea treatment information from manufacturer's prescription medication labels, the latest rosacea research studies and from the newest Rosacea Teratology textbooks. Some feel that the the many skin conditions with similar symptoms such as acne, seborrheic dermatitis, eczema, or lupus can make the diagnosis difficult. The primary problem is that medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh or aggressive leading to the onset of rosacea or acne rosacea. Aggressive acne treatments to reduce oiliness of the skin can result in the flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis. The butterfly rash of lupus can lead to a mis-diagnosis of rosacea. Within this site you will learn the difference between rosacea, eczema, acne, lupus and psoriasis. Very often these skin conditions co-exist making successful rosacea treatment a very difficult endeavor. Within this web site, we offer skin care recommendations on healthy, basic ways in which you can change habits and in doing so, change the texture, redness and tone of your rosacea skin. Treating rosacea need not involve an endless round of laser treatments, oral or topical antibiotics or the worst of all, steroid use. It can be as simple as modifying your lifestyle to include positive rosacea health and skin care habits.

COULD A ZINC DEFICIENCY CONTRIBUTE TO ROSACEA?

2009-11-17T10:45:00.000-08:00

Zinc is the element responsible in the operation or regulation of the enzymes related to cell proliferation within the body. The amount of zinc in the human body is so small that it is considered a trace mineral. Small as it is, the body's normal zinc supply is a vital factor in growth. Zinc is one of the most important trace minerals, perhaps second only to indium.

Zinc supplementation can decrease the possibility of incurring or altering thyroid hormonal imbalance from those who are zinc deficient. Zinc has been identified as a great factor in reducing the stress levels on diabetics thus reducing the risks of diabetic recurrences. It is also identified that zinc minimizes or prevents the occurrence of eczema, immune system problems, infertility issues, and anorexic attacks.

Zinc is actually considered an antiviral formula thus allowing the wound healing process to take effect immediately. Zinc plays a role in controlling the malnutrition problems including digestion issues, peptic ulcers concerns and many inflammatory diseases and illnesses including colds and viral infections.

Zinc promotes tissue growth allowing for wounds to wounds heal more quickly. Zinc has been proven effective in dealing with fungal infections on scalp even gastric ulcers cure alternative. Zinc eliminates body odor, helps protects the teeth, helps to eliminate bad breath, restores enzyme function of the immune system and skin, strongly fights viruses, protects the nervous system, and much more. Zinc is believed to possess antioxidant properties, which protect against premature aging of the skin and muscles of the body, although studies differ as to its effectiveness. Zinc preparations can protect against sunburn in the summer and windburn in the winter. Applied thinly to a baby's diaper area with each diaper change, it can protect against diaper rash.

Topically applied zinc has been used for decades by various medical physicians for the treatment of inflammatory acne. They have used zinc either as the primary ingredient or in conjunction with other anti-acne medications. Currently, zinc is found in several different active forms in hundreds of over-the-counter skin care products and anti-acne medications. Topically applied zinc has been shown to have a potent anti-septic effect (Drs. Provost and Farmer). More specifically, evidence suggests that zinc has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal actions, as well as mild anti-inflammatory actions(Drs. Rock, Wilkinson, and Ebling).
Signs of zinc deficiency present on the body as acne, hair loss, infection, herpes, body odor, and eye diseases. Zinc can be part of an effective treatment for age-related macular degeneration.

A zinc deficiency contributes to Angina, Alzheimer’s, anemia, anthrax, alcoholism, anorexia &bulimia, bad breath, birth defects, cavities, crohn's disease, chronic viral infections, depression, diabetes, down's syndrome, free radical damage, hypertension, infertility, loss of libido, and loss of smell. T

Zinc as an additive in a skin preparation promotes healing of the skin and eyes. Zinc can also promote cell rejuvenation. For this reason we found it an essential ingredient for Rosacea-Ltd.

Causes Of Rosacea

2009-10-29T11:07:00.000-07:00

Researchers have suggested several factors that may be related to its development, therefore:

1)A disorder of the blood vessels that causes them to swell, leading to flushing.
2)A genetic predisposition combined with certain environmental factors that may irritate the skin.
3)Clogging of the sebaceous gland openings with skin mites called Demodex folliculorum, which live in facial-hair follicles.

Medical Use of Sulfur

2009-10-23T08:56:00.000-07:00

Sulfur is a naturally occurring mineral in the earth and the eighth most abundant mineral in the human body. Sulfur is the mineral in the body responsible for beauty. It is the primary mineral in the skin, hair, nails, liver, and pancreas. Sulfur allows for the absorption of all other minerals allowing them utilized more efficiently in the body. Sulfur creates permeability in the absorption of other minerals. Sulfur works synergistically with vitamin C to create collagen. Sulfur helps alleviate wrinkles, and skin damage, including scarring. Sulfur helps repair injured joints, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. Sulfur helps build sulfur-bearing amino acids, which detoxify the liver, nourish the hair and skin, and build flexible muscle.

Signs of sulfur deficiency in the body include; skin conditions such as acne, brittle hair, dry skin, inflammation, poor skin quality, rosacea, scars, skin disorders, weak nails, and wrinkles. Muscular problems indicating a sulfur deficiency include; arthritis, back pain, muscle pain, nerve disorders, connective tissue damage, and various other muscle/skeletal disorders. Other signs of a sulfur deficiency in the body may present as constipation, free radical damage, infection, insulin/blood sugar challenges, leathery organs/tissue/skin, liver stagnation, liver disease, migraines, , protein deficiency, stress, urinary tract disorders, asthma, and circulatory problems.

First used in China in 6th century BC, sulfur contains antifungal, antibacterial, and keratolytic properties, which make it ideal for the treatment of acne, rosacea and other skin problems. Keratolytic agents encourage the shedding of dead skin cells that could block pores and cause pimples and other blemishes and excess sebum production. Sulfur is an effective treatment of inflammatory pimples and acne lesions, gradually eliminating the dark scars left by pimples. During the time of Hippocrates, sulfur was used to treat acne and has also been used to treat other skin conditions such as rosacea, dermatitis, warts and dandruff.

Sulfur has been used for the treatment of rosacea for over 20 years, and clinical studies have demonstrated that it is extremely effective in the treatment of rosacea-related papules and pustules (Drs. Ellis and Strawiski). Many dermatologists tailor rosacea treatments to the individual by varying the concentration of sulfur in a given preparation (from 2 percent to 15 percent sulfur). Because rosacea is a chronic disease, treatment must usually be continued for a long period of time. For this reason, Drs. Blom and Hornmark). were interested in a non-toxic, topically administered treatment that would be as effective as orally administered drugs such as antibiotics. To date, these medical physicians use topical sulfur as their primary anti-rosacea treatment(Drs. Blom and Hornmark).In a double-blind clinical study of 40 rosacea patients, these physicians found that rosacea-related papules and pustules responded much better to topical 10 percent sulfur than to oral antibiotics. More specifically, they found that with four weeks of topical sulfur treatment, the average number of papules and pustules dropped significantly (from 213 pimples before treatment to 17 pimples after treatment), that this clearing was much better than that attained by treatment with oral tetracycline. In a separate series of clinical studies, similar results were found by Dr. Strauss and colleagues.

Ocular Rosacea

2009-10-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Ocular rosacea is defined as an inflammatory eye condition often associated with rosacea. Ocualr rosacea can casue a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. Ocualr rosacea may also manifest itself as inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps compounded by a bloodshot appearance to the eyes.

The most frequent signs of ocular rosacea are chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts similar in appearance to seborrheic dermatitis. Pain and lsensitivity to light may also be present.

50 to 60% of rosacea sufferers report symptoms of ocular rosacea.

New Insights Into Rosacea Causes

2008-11-25T10:27:00.000-08:00

It has been said that rosacea is more than just a red face. In fact it is a complex system of action and reaction. Rosacea partially results from an overly acidic body and skin. The pH (potential of hydrogen) as you remember from your high school general science or chemistry class, ranges from 0 to 14 with 7 being neutral. As you rethink your past history, you will notice that "all" the rosacea triggers come from "acidic items" regardless of whether they are foods, drinks, stress, or merely out of breath. We all know that if we hold our breath for 30 seconds or 60 seconds, we will all notice that our face turns pink or red. We all know, but hardly think that the cause is a build up of carbon dioxide which is an "acidic" gas and we have a shortage of oxygen. Very similarly, when we exercise for a short period, we have a build up of "lactic acid", which is a body waste, which is obviously acidic. Likewise, those with acne need to be very concerned about the build up of acids in our blood stream due to the foods and beverages that we consume. We all know of our triggers such as alcohol, coffee, various medications, etc. which all have a pH below 7.0 or are termed acidic. Our objective therefore should be to balance, buffer or neutralize the acids with alkaline.

Acidity is measured as a pH of 1 to 7. Alkalinity is 7 to 14.The numbers refer to how many hydrogen atoms are present compared to an ideal or standard solution. Normally, blood is slightly alkaline, at 7.35 to 7.45; urine pH is the best and easiest way to check on the proper foods and drinks being eaten. Try to keep the pH in the 6.8 to 7.00 range for optimal functioning of the body and brain. If we are excessively alkaline, we don't have the mental and physical 'go' so we need our 'energy' brain and muscle foods and drinks during the day and very alkaline foods at night to calm the body and brain (parasympathetic system).

This scale is logarithmic; meaning that each number is ten times stronger than the preceding number. For example, a pH of 2 is ten times more acidic than a pH of 3 and one hundred times more acidic than a pH of 4.

Water is alkaline with a pH of about 7.3, and likewise more alkaline foods such as more "fresh vegetables" and fruits are needed which are alkaline (higher pH than 7.0). Acidic foods and drinks are the problem with a pH of below 7.0 such as coffee at 2.2. To improve your total body and skin condition, eat and drink 90% of the alkaline foods with 10% meats while avoiding breads, pastas, sugars, desserts, etc.

The body has several different ways to ensure that the pH balance stays in the normal range of 7.35 to 7.45. These are referred to as buffer systems. Through normal day-to-day activity in the body, acids are formed as waste products that need to be neutralized, alkalized, or buffered and eliminated. Some of the acids are released with CO2 from exhaling; others are excreted via the kidneys. With acidic foods and drinks, there is always more carbon dioxide (acidic) while alkaline foods produce much more oxygen (think of your high school classes of the tree, grass, and plants giving off oxygen). These systems work together in the healthy human body to keep the pH level within normal ranges. Sometimes with extreme intake of acidic foods and drinks, the normal system cannot compensate and the body becomes even more stressed resulting in more stress hormones, which are also acidic in nature causing more of a blush/flush. Likewise, simple illnesses such as influenza, minor surgery, or emotional and mental stress continue to lower the pH of the body and with more resulting skin blushing and flushing. Likewise, almost all medications are acidic except anti-acid medications such as Zantac, Milk of Magnesium, etc.
The adrenal cortex secretes cortisol, a natural body hormone of about 10 mg of cortisol daily, with peak cortisol levels occurring early in the morning and therefore the acne flushing and papules will look best in early mornings after this natural anti-inflammatory drug. The hormone that will report back to the original brain centers together with other body organs to tell it to stop the whole cycle. But since cortisol is a potent hormone, the prolonged secretion of it will lead to health problems such as the break down of cardiovascular system, digestive system, musculoskeletal system with resulting osteoporosis and arthritis - rheumatism, and the immune system. Also when the organism does not have a chance for recovery, it will lead to both catecholamine and cortisol depletion. The whole idea is "not to keep" the body in a 'fight or flight' system with any stress, stimulation or food/drinks.

Likewise more alkaline foods such as vegetables and fruits, are needed to offset the lactic acid of even mild body use at the office (and even more in strenuous labor jobs), carbon dioxide, adrenaline stress hormones, etc. Or, to keep the "rosacea bank account" balanced, the rosacea sufferer may simply try to minimize the acid foods, drinks, and exercise.

The biggest offenders always seem to be alcohol, coffee, pastries, donuts, pizza, etc. and most of these are avoided easily. However, understanding alcohol is slightly more difficult. Beer has an average pH between 2.0 to 2.5 while wines are around 3.0, while whiskey, gin, and vodka are 'most interesting' with a pH of about 4.0 straight from the bottle. So if one wants to "stay sober and really drink to his or her health," they should drink small portions of gin, vodka or whisky and optionally mix the alcoholic beverage with "water or fruit juice", which are alkaline or neutral. Do not forget that party foods are very acidic and cause fat to accumulate on the body. Having more alkaline foods and drinks presents a very easy way to lose weight without trying and at the dame time, reducing cellulite and bags under the eyes.

The accumulation of acids has a different name depending on the location where it is noticed. When we intake acidic or party foods and drinks, we flush and call it rosacea on our face. With more accumulation and less exercise to burn the acids, the acids accumulate on the stomach or backside (buns) and we call it body fat or maybe fat and cellulite and purchase bigger clothes over the years. When acids accumulate on the teeth, we call it tooth plaque which breaks down the tooth enamel resulting in a tooth cavity. When acids build up in the arteries, we again call it artery plaque or cholesterol which can lead to artery blockages and heart attacks. All these words have a common meaning of "Metabolic Acidosis".

Certainly acid or plaque/cholesterol accumulation makes for it more difficult for the blood to move through the facial area resulting in more rosacea symptoms, thus the "Sobye Facial Massage" and body stretching and a small amount of exercise are needed for improved circulation due to the restricted vessels and arteries, as you will read on the Lifestyle Changes page.

An accumulation of food or body acids affects the bones very much as our bones are the biggest sources of alkaline minerals, which are antioxidants or the opposite of acids. These alkaline minerals or antioxidants (such as iron, zinc, copper, iodine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, fluoride, sodium chloride and potassium chloride) are vital to bones, organs, brain and skin tissue life. When the pH balance becomes more "acidic" the minerals shift by the process of osmosis from the bones to the kidney and gall bladder creating very uncomfortable kidney stones, gall stones or "bone stones".

Rosacea-Ltd has prepared a rosacea diet page to help you select the most alkaline foods and avoid the most acidic ones. You don't have to understand the math, simply drink more alkaline water and foods from the green side of our rosacea diet.

Red man syndrome, a reaction to the highly acidic antibiotic vancomycin, is further evidence that rosacea is caused by an acidic body.

Rosacea-Ltd has a team of Rosacea Researchers with 60 years of collective research, led by a Johns Hopkins MD, have confirmed that the cause or etiology of rosacea is an immune system disorder. The "good rosacea news" is that your "Rosacea Flushing Bank Account" can be "balanced" to prevent an overdraw or going into the "red" or "rosacea flushing". Most medical researchers are baffled as to the cause or etiology of rosacea and it remains in contention among them currently. The cause of rosacea has been a hotly debated topic with the result One must wonder if they don't understand the cause, then how can they effectively treat rosacea? Okay, just continue doing the same thing with marginal or no results is not a good answer. As Dr. Albert Einstein stated, "The significant problems we face cannot be solved by the same thinking that created them".

Rosacea Management and Treatment

2008-08-14T07:11:00.000-07:00

Rosacea-Ltd is a different concept in rosacea management and treatment. It is composed of natural mineral ingredients, which improves the appearance of damaged and irritated skin often related to rosacea and/or acne. Rosacea-Ltd promotes healthy looking skin and progressive healthy lifestyles related to the improvement of the overall appearence of one's skin. Initial studies of rosacea test subjects indicate and 98 percent of previous Rosacea-Ltd users confirm that Rosacea-Ltd is extremely effective in soothing and conditioning the skin to lessen the appearance of facial redness (erythema) and dilated facial vessels (telangectasia), as well as rosacea-related papules (raised red lesion without pus) and acne pimples (with pus due to bacteria). Within weeks, you will notice positive changes in the condition of your skin.
Our team of Rosacea Researchers with 60 years of collective research, led by a Johns Hopkins MD, have confirmed that the cause or etiology of rosacea is an immune system disorder. The "good rosacea news" is that your "Rosacea Flushing Bank Account" can be "balanced" to prevent an overdraw or going into the "red" or "rosacea flushing". Most medical researchers are baffled as to the cause or etiology of rosacea and it remains in contention among them currently. The cause of rosacea has been a hotly debated topic with the result One must wonder if they don't understand the cause, then how can they effectively treat rosacea?
It is often the cumulative effect of the treatments you've been using to treat your rosacea that may actually be the aggravating source or factor of your current rosacea treatment. Improving the skin involves a complete change in your thought processes and your approach to treating and and controlling your rosacea.
Many rosacea sufferers have been frustrated for many years with unsuccessful or marginal results from many rosacea skin care products. Antibiotics, retnoids, Accutane, and steroids have been a mainstay of rosacea treatment for years. Rosacea sufferers have noticed that these prescribed treatments and various rosacea laser treatments have not worked well as a rosacea skin care product; also these past treatments for rosacea may have caused additional damage to the already sensitive rosacea skin. Oral and topical antibiotic rosacea treatments for adult acne rosacea can work for up to several months before the bacteria become immune to the antibiotic, causing the antibiotic to lose its effectiveness. Oral antibiotic treatment actually cause more rosacea red symptoms.
Overall 98% of Rosacea-Ltd III users confirm that they have found an excellent improvement in two to three weeks in the appearance of their rosacea skin condition after stopping their previous rosacea treatment that have been too aggressive for the overly sensitive rosacea skin. More importantly take a photo now of yourself so you can compare your rosacea skin in 2-3 months by taking an after "Rosacea-Ltd III" photo.Former rosacea sufferers see a calming of their facial rosacea redness, dilated facial rosacea vessels and rosacea papules (a small, red solid rosacea skin lesion without pus that is not acne) as well as acne and seborrheic dermatitis after stopping their previous rosacea skin treatment.

The Progression of Rosacea

2008-06-23T11:28:00.000-07:00

Rosacea Progression: The redness begans and gradually becomes more more persistant with spidery blood vessels becomes progressively prominent on the nose and cheeks. Trauma from abrasives and peeling agents (Retin - A and all other retnoids, steroids and exfoliants including anti-aging products) easily cause more long-lasting redness. Inflammatory papules (without pus) and pustules (with pus) develop and continue to worsen. Facial pores often become larger and prominent. If there has been much sun exposure damage over the years, the skin becomes more leathery skin becomes more wrinkled as it is not elastic or as soft to bend. Eventually, the sides of the neck as well as the area down to the center of the chest began to redden and later the ears and area behind the ears also become more red. The facial skin contours gradually become coarse and thickened. A small number of rosacea patients realize they have a more serious presentation of the disease of rosacea with the condition of nose tissue hyperplasia beginning. Hypergenesis is a general term referring to the proliferation of cells within an organ or tissue beyond that which is ordinarily seen as is indicative of cancer cells expansion. "Rosacea is more than a red face" as rosacea sufferers often have allergy and sinus problems, fibromyalgia, digestive system disorders, and in later years osteoporosis and arthritis - rheumatism presents itself along with a lowering of the total immune system. As you read our new rosacea research facts page, you will find that rosacea is just one symptom of a "metabolic acidosis" disorder.

The Flush Of Rosacea

2008-03-28T08:37:00.000-07:00

One of the main concerns about rosacea are the symptoms of flushing or difuse redness. The flushing factor tends to cause the comment and embarrassment for the rosacea sufferer. Facial redenss or erythema is best defined as a lengthy flush of embarrassment or emotion in a socal situation that may last for a few minutes to many hours. While for many others it is the more constant redness or blotchy flushed appearence that becomes the cause of embarrassment. The redness is generally located on the cheek area but can spread down to the chin, neck or even upper chest. In some cases the forehead may also be involved. This redness can be associated with many things such as food, dust, environmental or chemical allergies, stress, over-exertion, excercise, alcohol, extreme heat or cold. If the redness becomes more permanent or constant, one may suspect the skin condition known as rosacea.

Treatment of rosacea needs to begin with an understanding of what causes or influences your rosacea flushing. Effective skin care for rosacea must address the flushing issues. Rosacea sufferers have on average more facial blood vessels than the general population, or they have blood vessels which are more prominent or severely damaged. Consequently, anything that stimulates facial dilation cannot be handled easily or properly. We will attempt to help you understand vascular constriction and dilation. Dilation, or enlarging of the blood vessels, produces the flushing which rosacea sufferers experience. Understanding what causes the vessels to dilate will you in controlling the factors that aggravate a rosacea flush.

Facial redness or erythema is best defined as that lengthy blush of embarrassment in a social situation that may last for many hours. While for many others it can be a more constant redness that becomes a cause of embarrassment. The redness is generally located in the cheek area but can spread to down to the chin and neck and even upper chest. In some cases the forehead area may also be involved. The facial redness can be associated with many things such as food, dust, environmental or chemical allergies; stress, over-exertion; exercise, extreme heat or cold; or alcohol.

Many rosacea patients definition of rosacea is a hot burning sensation 'of sensory feelings' like a sunburn. Other patients definition is the 'appearance' that they personally view themselves and how others socially view their red sunburn appearance.' In the early stages of rosacea this redness may come and go. In the later stages of rosacea, the effect becomes more permanent. The facial redness or flushing may last anywhere from hours to days at a time.

THE SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF ROSACEA

2008-03-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

The successful treatment of rosacea involves many aspects of skin care and total heallth care. Anything that creates changes in the body or in the facial skin can have an impact rosacea and its treatment. Rosacea is a complex interaction involving several factors and/or conditions. Changing those factors which contribute to your rosacea, may be the key to controlling or even curing your rosacea! Balancing those factors which in the past have influenced your rosacea will help to control or manage your rosacea. Many factors contribute to or aggravate rosacea. As you study them you will find easy simple ways to limit or eliminate a source of your rosacea. Not all factors will influence everyone's rosacea but finding yours may be the key to limiting or controlling your rosacea in a natural way.

It is important in the treatment of the causes of rosacea to use as many ways of curing rosacea as possible. Hippocrates said, "First of all, do no harm," referring to doctors' treatment of the entire body. A treatment derivative could be 'not to cause harm' to the body with our foods, drinks, sunlight, stress from work or lack of sleep, etc., in order to reduce the symptoms of rosacea. Information on rosacea educates the reader about steroid rosacea, accutane rosacea, acne rosacea, adult rosacea, ocular rosacea, pregnancy rosacea, make-up for rosacea, rosacea cleanser, rosacea diet, and the many possible treatments.

The Picture of Rosacea

2007-06-25T12:18:00.000-07:00

A picture taken early in the diagnosis of rosacea can be effective when treating rosacea. A picture taken at various intervals of the treatment process can track the chronic progressive skin disorder of rosacea. A chronological picture file is needed is useful in determining the progression of your rosacea condition and in judging the possible benefits of your current rosacea treatment. It is difficult to tell from a picture of rosacea what degree of rosacea-related skin sensitivity may be present as the tone, elasticity, darkness of the skin makes everyone different. Often the darker colored skinned people have rosacea but it does not show up easily to be diagnosed as rosacea.
To get a clear picture of rosacea, it’s best to start with the clinical definition of rosacea. Rosacea is known as a hereditary, chronic (long term) skin disorder that most often affects the nose, forehead, cheekbones, and chin (Dr. Berasques). Groups of tiny microvessels (arterioles, capillaries, and venules) close to the surface of the skin become dilated, resulting in blotchy red areas with small papules (a small, red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus, that is minor when the size is of a small measles lesion, moderate when about the size of a pencil eraser, and severe when the papule is the size of a small currency coin or the tip of the little finger) and pustules (pus-filled inflammatory bumps). The redness associated with rosacea can come and go, but eventually it may become permanent. Furthermore, the skin tissue can swell and thicken and may be tender and sensitive to the touch. Note: Pustules are NOT pimples. Pimples have a bacterial component to their pathogenesis and are also mainly localized in and around the hair follicles. This implies that there can be no cure for rosacea or even an effective treatment for your rosacea and yet many have found ways to control their rosacea through effective treatment and lifestyle changes.
The inflammation of rosacea can look very much like acne, but blackheads and whiteheads are almost never present. Rosacea is a fairly common disorder -- about one in every twenty Americans is afflicted with it (Drs. Faria and Edward). Rosacea usually begins with frequent flushing of the face, particularly the nose and cheeks. This facial flushing is caused by the swelling of the blood vessels under the skin. This "red mask" can serve as a flag for attention. Telangiectasis is easy to recognize, characterized by the visible presence of capillaries, bright red in color. Diffuse redness frequently precedes the appearance of telangiectasis and is a constant flushed appearance. True diffuse redness is quite different from a localized erythema as seen in cases of sunburn, inflammation or over stimulation. With both telangiectasis and diffuse redness, the redness is not transitory and there generally is not an increase in skin temperature, but particularly there are no alterations in the tissue structure or biochemistry as seen in rosacea. The circulatory network of the skin is extensive and the capillaries are the smallest, most delicate vessels. During normal blood circulation the capillaries undergo constant changes. In between beats the pressure is relieved and the vessels constrict back to their normal size. This return to normal size is accomplished by the natural elasticity in the structure of the capillary. If telangiectasis is present, the capillaries' elasticity is deteriorated so they remain slightly dilated. The constant influx of blood perpetuates this slight dilation. The skin gradually becomes congested and eventually the capillaries become visible through the skin's surface. When it comes to telangiectasis, sometimes a person's lifestyle and habits can be the skin's worst enemy. In a fair, delicate skin predisposed to telangiectasis, a steady diet of hot, spicy food, chronic alcohol consumption and eating meals too quickly will promote telangiectasis. And many retinoids used for acne as well as many harsh soaps continue to aggravate the skin. Then there's cigarette smoking, which depletes the skin of vitamin C, essential for the formation of collagen, accelerates the cross linkage of collagen and the hardening of elastin and furthermore creates a trillion free radicals, which destroy the capillary structure. Smoking, which additionally robs the skin of oxygen, is a potent initiator of telangiectasis. Also, the smoker may have a variety of medical problems such as high blood pressure, and mineral deficiencies, which can cause the appearance of telangiectasis.
Rosacea can involve the eyes resulting in a persistent burning and feeling of grittiness in the eyes or inflamed and swollen eyelids with small inflamed bumps, eyelashes sometimes fall out, compounded by bloodshot eyes. The ocular signs of rosacea are exceedingly variable, including blepharitis, conjunctivitis, iritis, iridocyclitis, hypopyoniritis, and even keratitis. The term ocular rosacea covers all these signs. The most frequent sign of ocular rosacea, which may never progress, is chronically inflamed margins of the eyelids with scales and crusts, quite similar to seborrheic dermatitis, with which it is often confused. Pain and photophobia may be present. It is instructive to ask rosacea patients how their eyes react to bright sunlight.
To view rosacea pictures of what many would consider more severe rosacea cases in the pictures of a man's face and a woman's face. Please remember that these pictures of rosacea sufferers are severe cases. With rosacea, sometimes the picture tells the whole story as others see you. Many times we hear people say, "I didn't realize how red my face was until I saw a picture of myself."

Antibiotics For Rosacea Treatment

2007-02-21T07:14:00.000-08:00

Antibiotics, retinoids, Accutane, and steroids have been a mainstay of rosacea treatment for years. Rosacea sufferers have noticed that these prescribed treatments and various rosacea laser treatments have not worked well as a rosacea skin care product; also these past treatments for rosacea may have caused additional damage to the sensitive rosacea skin. Oral and topical antibiotic rosacea treatments for adult acne rosacea can work for up to several months before the bacteria become immune to the antibiotic, causing the antibiotic to lose its effectiveness. Dermatologist continue to be baffled by rosacea due to a lack of patient history and experience, and treat rosacea like other skin disorders. The result is that the doctor becomes frustrated and the patient becomes impatient and migrate to another doctor. Oral antibiotic treatment actually cause more rosacea red symptoms. For information on the latest FDA findings, see Bacterial Resistance to Antibiotics.

'ACNE ROSACEA'

2007-02-09T06:59:00.000-08:00

The term "acne rosacea" first appeared in an English medical text by Dr. Thomas Bateman in 1812, who noted: "The perfect cure of acne rosacea is, in fact, never accomplished." Other 19th century references commonly listed rosacea among the different forms of acne.Finally in 1891, Dr. Henri G. Piffard, a professor of dermatology in New York, called for distinctions among different forms of acne to more truly differentiate symptoms.
Today, dermatologists have learned that rosacea is a different disease from acne, and that therapy for acne can often make rosacea worse. Although the precise cause of rosacea is still unknown, most experts believe it is a vascular disorder that seems to be related to the flushing of rosacea.
Research has also dispelled the centuries-old myth that rosacea is caused by heavy consumption of alcohol. While alcohol may aggravate rosacea, the symptoms of rosacea can be just as severe in one who never consumes alcohol.

Reference : Wilkin, Jonathan K: Rosacea: Pathophysiology and Treatment. Archives of Dermatology. 1994;130:359-362. Rosacea research has resulted in better rosacea treatments.

The Rosacea Support Community

2007-01-24T07:48:00.000-08:00

The Rosacea Support Group is a no-cost, moderated, email group for rosacea sufferers to offer support to each other as a community of fellow rosacea sufferers who are willing to share their symptoms, and their successful and failed treatments.

The email group functions as an online rosacea self help group. The Rosacea Support Group was created as a e-mail support group for rosacea suffers to post to the rosacea forum, rosacea chat, or rosacea bulletin board. The Rosacea Support Group is for members to exchange information about rosacea symptoms and rosacea treatments that are listed as 'the stand of care' by physicians as well as other non prescribed medication over the counter or via the internet.

You will find the Rosacea Support Group and the Rosacea Support Posting Group a most interesting group to join if you have the time to chat. Or you will might find the list of HIGHLIGHTS to be helpful as a shorter course in rosacea education.

A Successful Treatment For Rosacea

2007-01-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

My name is Jim and I have had rosacea for several years and had little to no success with any of the prescribed medication from visits to several dermatologists. I tried Metro-Cream, Tetracycline, etc with no success.
I began my own research and discovered a company called Bass and Boney, Inc.who manufactures a topical rosacea medication called "rosacea Limited." I encourage, actually implore, anyone struggling with this problem to visit their web page at www.rosacea-ltd.com. This is by far the most effective treatment I have used. I often forget that I have rosacea at all. When I use it properly, virtually all of my symptoms vanish. The cost of treatment is very low as you will see when you visit their page.

Rosacea Skin Care Products – Topical Treatment

2007-01-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

Rosacea skin care products aim to manage rosacea once the disorder is already under control. In 1989, the first topical treatment specific to rosacea was approved by the FDA. Metronidazole is manufactured under several different names, including Metrogel®, Metrocream® and Metrolotion®, and Noritate®. Another rosacea-specific topical product is Rosacea-LTD III™, a mixture of zinc oxide, polyethylene glycol, manganesium sterate, iron oxide, sodium chloride, and sulfur.
Dermatologists might also prescribe other topical rosacea skin care products containing a sulfuric or azaleic acid, as well as gentle cleansers and moisturizers.

A Rosacean Commentary

2006-12-20T07:37:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm tooting my own horn here but I had a letter printed in December's issue of DT.

I mentioned our on line communities so I thought you might be interested. They edited it a good bit (I had good spew had on Metrogel that didn't make the cut) but it's probably just as well.

Here it is....

In his Guest Commentary "Managing rosacea; practitioners discuss trends" (September 2006), Dr. William Baum presents his findings after moderating advisory panels across the country consisting of specialists talking about the many facets of rosacea. As a long-term sufferer of this disease, I have to say the article was quite disappointing as the discussions on trigger factors, patient compliance and the "new frontiers" of topical treatments was just a rehash of the same old stuff we've been hearing for years and offered no new insights.

No offense to the good doctor. Rosacea is often severely misunderstood and the gap between what the medical community thinks about it and the reality of a sufferer seems to grow wider every day. Talking about trigger factors is all well and good but it would be helpful if it was better understood what someone with rosacea has to go through on a daily basis to avoid them. No sunlight, hot water, cold water, warm rooms, cold rooms, wind, stress, physical exertion, spicy foods, alcohol. To remain trigger-free would mean sitting in a dark room all day staying perfectly still. No TV or computer because the glare could cause a flare, no phones because holding the receiver next to your face makes you flush, in fact even just talking does. Absolutely no crying in self pity because you'll be beet red for the rest of the day.

Moving on to poor patient compliance, excuse me if I don't empathize with your theory that I am at fault for the progression of my disease. As discussed above, trigger avoidance is a near impossibility and the topicals commonly prescribed just cannot be tolerated by many rosaceans.

Plus, some doctors are very guilty of pushing bad products that are conveniently sold in their office and over-promising results that desperate patients cling to. I guess the frustrating part is (that) with an estimated 40 million people suffering from this disease, there have been virtually no breakthroughs in new meds or therapies to effectively treat it.

Even the lasers that are out there are marketed for other things like photodamage and wrinkles. Why hasn't a laser been made specifically for rosacea? Do these companies not understand the gold mine that is waiting for them if an effective anti-flushing treatment is found? I know there are many good doctors who understand the complexity of this disease and the suffering it brings to patients. But there are also too many sufferers who are left out in the cold (oops, another trigger) because what has become the accepted form of treatment has done squat for them and they suffer in silence.

If you'd like to take a peek in to the real work of rosacea, please check out the two most active rosacea sites on the Internet at:
http://forum.rosaceagroup.org/
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/rosacea-support/messages/

Dr. Baum, I do not mean this letter to be a slam on your research because you seem like an intelligent man who means well, but I challenge you and your colleagues to really push the envelope towards beating this disease! We need better treatments (specifically for flushing and redness) and look at other anti-inflammatories (than the ones) that are currently out there. Help get the word out that rosacea is, by far, not anywhere near being controlled, and new therapies are desperately needed. Most of all though, just listen to your patients.

Tricia Butler
San Diego, Calif.

rosacea-like demodicidosis

2006-12-14T06:28:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year Brady Barrows proposed a sixth subtype for rosacea: Rosacea Demodicidosis thinking that he was the first one to come up with this subtype, but apparently this has been known for some time. In doing a Google search it has been found that this came up as far back as 1932 according to an article published in California Medicine in 1963 by Samuel Ayres, Jr., MD in Los Angeles.

Here is a small part of the article:

As early as 1932 Ayres and Anderson called attention to a type of rosacea which they felt was caused in large part by extraordinarily heavy infestation by the mite, Demodex folliculorum, and it was pointed out that the demodex type of rosacea was a further development or complication of an entity that had been described and named by the present author two years previously under the title "Pityriasis Folliculorum (Demodex) ."l Since that time a number of publications have appeared on the subject as well as an exhibit at the thirteenth annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology and Syphilology in 1954. The most recent publication concerning the pathogenic role of Demodex in the production of pityriasis folliculorum (Demodex) and acne rosacea was Ayres and Ayres' summary of 30 years' experience with these two commonly unrecognized entities. Both conditions were referred to as demodicidosis. Inasmuch as the authors' attempts to describe and segregate a particular type of acne rosacea as being caused wholly or in large part by Demodex has led to confusion and to the erroneous statement that the authors have claimed that all cases of rosacea are caused by Demodex, it was felt that a new term should be coined and that rosacea of the Demodex type should henceforth be referred to as "rosacea-like demodicidosis."

source of article in pdf format > http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/picrender.fcgi?artid=1575759&blobtype=pdf

html format > http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1575759

Why Rosacea Flares At the Same Time Each Day

2006-12-08T07:02:00.000-08:00

Clock rosacea or systemic flushing- the body does operate on a clock! Universally, hospital physicians have known for years that the lowest body temperature of the 24 hour day is usually around 3:00 to 4:00 A.M. while the highest temperature of the day is generally 7:00 to 8:00 P.M. The average rosacea sufferer does not have hospital waking and sleeping hours, therefore their temperature lows and highs may vary 3 to 5 hours each way. A high temperature for some may be as early as 3:00 P.M.
Flushing usually occurs when the body becomes fatigued and/or stressed which stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. The key to this is the autonomic nervous system (more specifically, the sympathetic postganglionic efferent nerves). Any activation of these nerves causes vasoconstriction of "body blood vessels" -- except in the "facial blush/flush areas" where it induces potent vasodilatation or flushing with the resulting "rosacea red face" therefore, the rosacea suffers desires treatment.
A typical rosacea sufferer would flush in the fifth grade even if the answer was known when the teacher asked a question, and obviously the flushing would be noticed by the other kids. Again the sympathetic nervous system.
Stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system.
Lack of sleep stimulates the sympathetic nervous system with a minimum of 8 hours being needed.
Anxiety at work or home (fight or flight) stimulates the sympathetic nervous system.
Increase in internal body temperature stimulates the sympathetic nervous system when "acid drinks, foods, and cigarettes" are consumed, whereas obviously a decrease in body temperature and facial skin heat results when the the parasympathetic system calms the body and brain over a period of time such as at night when sleeping. By consuming the alkaline foods and drinks, the parasympathetic nervous system can very quickly take control of the body and brain stress.
The parasympathetic nervous system to 'activate as quickly as possible for the rosacea patients who tend to have one or more of the following:
Genetically weak blood vessels.
Damaged blood vessels from years of sun.
Damaged support system for blood vessels (collagen-elastic of skin) and a damaged immune system.
Increased number of blood vessels to years of inappropriate skin care and rosacea treatments.

Google's Opinion Of Rosacea

2006-11-07T06:18:00.000-08:00

rosacea is a chronic disease which afflicts over 16 million
rosacea is caused by the dilation of tiny microvessels called arterioles
rosacea is becoming increasingly widespread as the populous baby boom generation enters the most susceptible ages
rosacea is a medical condition there are many misconceptions about rosacea
rosacea is a progressive vascular disorder that affects the skin and eyes
rosacea is a chronic inflammation that occurs on the skin of the face
rosacea is a chronic blood vessel disorder that most often develops between the ages of thirty and forty
rosacea is often mistaken for seborrheic dermatitis
rosacea is a common face rash of adults
rosacea is a chronic acneiform disorder affecting both the skin and the eye
rosacea is a disorder that affects both the skin and eyes
rosacea is a facial rash
rosacea is a disorder of the follicles and surrounding skin that occurs usually in the middle of the face
rosacea is a chronic
rosacea is characterized by an enlarged nose
rosacea is a skin problem that affects the nose and face
rosacea is a common skin disorder that causes red patches
rosacea is a disorder that continues to receive very little focus by the general medical community
rosacea is a progressive vascular disorder that affects the face and eyes of millions of people worldwide
rosacea is still unknown
rosacea is surrounded by confusion
rosacea is a chronic disease which afflicts over 16 million north americans
rosacea is not entirely clear
rosacea is very often accompanied by acne pimples in over 76% of patients/customers while approximately 35% have seborrheic dermatitis
rosacea is a hereditary
rosacea is a chronic and often life disrupting disorder of the facial skin
rosacea is not painful
rosacea isrosacea is a chronic disease which usually first appears as subtle reddening on the face
rosacea is still somewhat of a mystery
rosacea is a disease affecting the skin of the facerosacea is a neurovascular disorder it affects the flushing zone
rosacea is a disorder that affects both men and women
rosacea is a chronic skin disease that affects both the skin and the eyes
rosacea is a condition aftecting the skin of the face in areas where people tend to blush
rosacea is an inflammatory condition mainly affecting the face
rosacea is a common skin disorder of the face
rosacea is sometimes referred to as "adult acne
rosacea is a common skin complaint among dermatology patients
rosacea is common in the 20's and 30's and peaks between the ages of 40 to 50 years
rosacea is also known as acne rosacea
rosacea is an acne
rosacea is a skin disease that typically develops in adults beginning in their thirties
rosacea is almost always found in adults over the age of 30
rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness on the face
what other skin conditions can look like rosacea?
rosacea is often misdiagnosed as acne and treated with acne medications
rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that most often affects the forehead
rosacea is a disease that affects the skin
rosacea is a common skin condition that usually only affects the face and eyes
rosacea is a common disorder of the facial skin
rosacea is a contraindication for refractive surgery until treated and managed
rosacea is a condition in which the face flushes
acne rosacea is a chronic and progressive facial skin disorder that first appears as a redness that comes and goes on the cheeks
rosacea is a skin disease that affects the middle third of the face
rosacea is based on the finding of persistent erythema
rosacea is a skin disorder that affects approximately 13 million americans
rosacea is a disease affecting primarily the skin of the face
rosacea is no fun
rosacea is a fairly common annoying face rash occuring in adults
rosacea is a mysterious disorder that continues to receive very little focus by the general medical community
rosacea is more severe in men
rosacea is a problem for many people in this country
rosacea is a condition that primarily affects the skin of the face
rosacea is one of the most devastating conditions for men and women in today's society
rosacea is a condition of excess

Revitalized Interest In Rosacea Research

2006-11-02T11:01:00.000-08:00

Research interest in rosacea has entered a renaissance.
Dr. Powell This is a welcome development for the many patients who suffer from this common, socially disabling disease that previously had been neglected by scientists, according to Frank C. Powell, M.D.
Dr. Powell, consultant dermatologist, Mater Hospital, Dublin, Ireland, suggests that several factors seem to be fueling the activity in rosacea research.
The pharmaceutical industry has recognized rosacea therapies as a lucrative product area, and the National Rosacea Society has provided a significant number of research grants. In addition, the two papers on disease classification and staging published by the National Rosacea Society Expert Committee have stimulated researchers to use a common language when dealing with this disease.
Several papers on epidemiology have been published recently and their results include some findings that are consistent with existing concepts. However, they also contain some conflicting data about prevalence.
In agreement with some previous reports, a Greek study of 615 patients showed that males and females were equally effected, although males had a later age of onset than females, 59 years vs. 48 years. In addition, that study reported rosacea was associated with significant seasonal variation in which the disease was most severe in the winter and spring. Also as expected, erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) was found to be the most common variant,effecting 72 percent of the patients, and rhinophyma effected males more often than females.
Data on prevalence are available from two recent studies. One conducted in the Faroe Islands reported a prevalence of 0.09 percent, whereas a Swedish study found the prevalence of rosacea was much higher at about 10 percent.
Prompted to undertake his own study, Dr. Powell and colleagues are examining 1,000 randomly selected persons in Ireland, including 500 indoor workers and 500 outdoor workers, and will be assessing evidence of photodamage and its possible relationship to rosacea. So far, the investigation of the indoor workers has been completed, and the prevalence rate of rosacea in that subgroup is 2.9 percent.
"That rate is more consistent with data from another study out of Australia. Surprisingly and somewhat disappointingly, we have not seen a relationship between rosacea and photodamage, although we have found photodamage is associated with flushing, erythema and telangiectasia," he reports.
That latter finding raises the point that there continues to be debate on how to define ETR and how to differentiate it from actinic damage.
"Perhaps the prevalence data are being skewed by difficulty in recognizing the ETR variant of rosacea so that results of studies reporting a higher rate reflect inclusion of patients who simply have actinic damage without rosacea," he tells Dermatology Times.
CLINICAL ADVANCES In the area of rosacea treatment, the approval of subantimicrobial dose doxycycline for the treatment of rosacea stands out as a major recent development.
However, Dr. Powell also highlights several other clinical studies of rosacea treatment.
In a small study published last year, Craige and colleagues reported good results using propranolol for symptomatic treatment of rosacea-associated cutaneous flushing. Patients were started on a dose of 40 mg per day that was gradually increased.
"It was encouraging to see some pharmacotherapy identified that could help control flushing. Notably, patients with rosacea may develop a vicious circle involving anxiety and flushing, and part of the mechanism of action of propranolol may involve its anxiolytic property," Dr. Powell says.
A study published by Altinyazar et al. reported that adapalene gel was as effective as metronidazole gel for reducing the number of inflammatory lesions in rosacea patients. However, metronidazole gel was more effective for improving erythema.
Also noteworthy was a brief report appearing in the Australian Journal of Dermatology describing a patient who was treated with kilovoltage photon radiotherapy for a basal cell carcinoma on the nose and who simultaneously benefited with improvement of rhinophyma.
DEFINING THE CLINICAL SPECTRUM Several recent papers further the debate on the clinical spectrum of rosacea and subtype classification.
In 2004 in an article appearing in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Crawford et al. proposed the concept of glandular rosacea to describe another phenotype distinct from the four subtypes introduced by the expert committee. Glandular rosacea occurs predominantly in males who characteristically have oily skin, large pores, a tendency to rhinophyma, and inflammatory lesions, including papules, pustules and nodulocystic lesions, that extend onto the lateral cheeks and neck.
"It is good to remember there are patients with rosacea who have acne-like lesions that are not just centrofacial, and that points attention to the questions about potential relationships between acne vulgaris and rosacea," Dr. Powell says.
Debate also continues over whether rosacea conglobata and rosacea fulminans are variants of acne vulgaris or rosacea.
"I agree with Crawford who believes these severe phenotypes seen mostly in postadolescent females are an explosive form of acne vulgaris because I think they share more features in common with that disease than with rosacea," Dr. Powell says.
Dr. Powell also cites a study published by Gupta et al. in 2005 to remind his colleagues that rosacea can have a devastating quality of life impact. That study included thousands of subjects, and it found patients with rosacea had a 4.8-fold increased risk for depression. No association was found between alcohol abuse/dependence and rosacea.
"In treating patients with rosacea, we are well aware of the psychological effects of this disease, and the depression, anxiety and social isolation it can cause," Dr. Powell says.
"The myth of alcohol abuse causing the redness of rosacea is further debunked by this study," he adds.

Lupus May Be Mistaken For Rsoacea

2006-11-01T11:07:00.000-08:00

Lupus may be hard to diagnose. It’s often mistaken for other diseases such as rosacea. For this reason, lupus has been called the “great imitator.” The signs of lupus differ from person to person. Some people have just a few signs; others have more.
Common signs of lupus are:
Red rash or color change on the face, often in the shape of a butterfly across the nose and cheeks Painful or swollen joints
Unexplained fever
Chest pain with deep breathing
Swollen glands
Extreme fatigue (feeling tired all the time)
Unusual hair loss (mainly on the scalp)
Pale or purple fingers or toes from cold or stress
Sensitivity to the sun
Low blood count
Depression, trouble thinking, and/or memory problems
Other signs are mouth sores, unexplained seizures (convulsions), “seeing things” (hallucinations), repeated miscarriages, and unexplained kidney problems.

The History Of Rosacea

2006-10-31T09:51:00.000-08:00

The French surgeon, Dr. Guy de Chauliac, in the 14th century, was the first person known to describe rosacea medically as a skin condition. Dr. de Chauliac talked about "red lesions in the face, particularly on the nose and cheeks." He called the condition "goutterose" (French for "pink droplet") or "couperose" (now a common French term for rosacea).Others referred to rosacea as "gutta rosa" (the Latin version of "goutterose") or "pustule de vin" (French for "pimples of wine").
Whatever the name, the condition was well-known and commonly "attributed to the excessive consumption of alcoholic drinks," according to Dr. de Bersaques.
References to rosacea were also known in early literature. Chaucer's Canterbury Tales and Shakespeare's Henry V include descriptions of men with red faces and enlarged noses. Artists through the centuries also have depicted rosacea in paintings of red faces and bulbous red noses. A painting in the Louvre, "The Old Man and His Grandson" by Ghirlandiao around the year 1480, is a well-known example.

Referenced from: de Bersaques, J: Historical Notes on Rosacea. European Journal of Dermatology. 1995;5:16-22.

Conditions That Mimic Rosacea

2006-10-18T10:56:00.000-07:00

The many symptoms that mimic rosacea and the many skin conditions with symptoms similar to rosacea can make the diagnosis of rosacea difficult. Medications used in the treatment of acne can be too harsh or aggressive leading to the onset of rosacea or acne rosacea. Aggressive acne treatments to reduce oiliness of the skin can result in the flaking associated with seborrheic dermatitis. The butterfly rash of lupus can also lead to a mis-diagnosis of rosacea. Learning the difference between the symptoms of rosacea, eczema, acne, lupus and psoriasis is necessary to understanding your skin condition. It is possible for these skin conditions to co-exist making successful rosacea treatment a very difficult endeavor. Treating rosacea or other skin conditions need not involve an endless round of laser treatments and antibiotics, it can be as simple as modifying your lifestyle to include positive rosacea health and skin care habits. The treatment of rosacea or any skin condition must involve treatment of the whole body

Rosacea Can Co-Exist With Other Skin Conditions

2006-10-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Patients with Rosacea Symptoms often have seborrheic dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers makes a most delicate rosacea skin condition; and this is even more so when adult acne co-exist with rosacea in approximately 82% of rosacea sufferers. This symptom combination is often referred to as "acne rosacea". The combination of acne, seborrheic dermatitis and rosacea symptoms is quite aggravating as seen by years of past efforts as the treatment of one condition aggravates the other two medical conditions.

The Acne Rosacea Society

2006-09-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

A dedicated, varied group of dermatologists met recently at the American Academy of Dermatology annual meeting with a singular focus: elevating the understanding and treatment of acne and rosacea.Gathering for the first time, members of the newly established American Acne & Rosacea Society (AARS) met to discuss the group’s goals and objectives and to hear an entertaining keynote address from renowned dermatologist Albert Kligman, M.D., Ph.D.According to AARS President Guy Webster, M.D., Ph.D., “AARS was formed to promote research and education on the biology and treatment of acne.

Although acne and rosacea are common diseases that make up a large part of daily dermatologic practice, the academic community pays little attention to them. “We aim to correct this imbalance by encouraging investigation and developing young investigators.

Educational programs will be created to aid in resident training, and our meetings will provide a forum for presenting the latest research.”In addition to Dr. Webster, other Executive Committee members include President-Elect Hilary Baldwin, M.D., and Lee Zane, M.D., who is s Secretary-Treasurer. Founding Society Chairmen include Dr. Kligman, as well as Dr. John Strauss, Dr. Peter Pochi, Dr. Alan Shalita and Dr. Jim Leyden. The list of Founding Directors is equally impressive and includes the following: Diane Berson, M.D., David Cohen, M.D., James Q. Del Rosso, D.O., Lawrence Eichenfield, M.D., Julie Harper, M.D., Mark Jackson, M.D., Sewon Kang, M.D., Anne Lucky, M.D., Leonard Swinyer, M.D., and Diane Thiboutot, M.D.If you’re interested in learning more about this group or joining the AARS, contact Dr. Baldwin at hbaldwin@downstate.edu.

The AARS has not yet set a date for its next meeting; however, this enthusiastic group is sure to have a lasting impact.“Our inaugural meeting was a happy collision of veteran researchers and young acne specialists, a sort of hybrid of the All-Star Game and the Hall of Fame all at once,” says Dr. Webster. “With such a group assembled I expect great things to happen!”

Symptoms Of Rosacea

2006-09-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

The symptoms of rosacea can vary substantially from one patient to another, and may include various combinations of rosacea signs and symptoms. These rosacea symptoms include facial rosacea redness or flushing; Telangiectasis also known as damaged or dilated facial blood vessels or spider veins; rosacea papules also described as a solid raised bump that may open when scratched, becoming crusty and infected; pustules which is a dome-shaped, fragile lesion containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria; skin sensitivity; a lumpy or orange-peel texture to the skin; facial swelling; burning sensations on the skin; ocular rosacea, often described as a red, irritated, gritty feeling in the eyes, the ocular rosacea eyes may also have a swollen, watery appearance; the last symptom of rosacea is rhinopyma or nasal bumps that may produce a swollen misshapen appearance to the nose.

New research findings by Bass & Boney, makers of Rosacea-Ltd; suggest that eye (ocular) symptoms may occur in over half of rosacea patients, and 12 to 20 percent of ocular rosacea patients reported they developed their eye symptoms before developing any facial rosacea symptoms. On the other hand, facial redness is one of the most common symptoms of rosacea, and frequently appears before other signs and symptoms develop. Medical therapy can be tailored to control various signs and symptoms, and may also prevent rosacea from getting worse.

Water And Rosacea

2006-09-13T10:21:00.000-07:00

As we grow older, we often have a reduced "sense" of thirst and think we do "not" need more water to hydrate our body and brain, therefore, we "deteriorate more quickly" as our skin is the first organ of the body to inform us. We need to drink at least 10 eight ounce glasses (2.5 liters) of "alkaline" water per day if you are a smaller person! Considerably more is needed if one is larger, working outside, playing a sport, or doing something else physically taxing.More water is needed if the rosacea sufferer has a higher metabolism, anxiety, or stress level, or if one lives in a dry climate.

Likewise, people that live in colder areas where the humidity is "low", especially when the home is being heated during a long winter, need more water because the air absorbs moisture from the body’s skin.

The skin also absorbs air pollution and whatever toxins are in the air environment just as it absorbs topical medications.

Water is needed for skin tissue repair as well as nearly every body process including efficient digestion, absorption, circulation and secretion. Water carries nutrients to the skin cell and all body cells and removes waste from the cell.

As we grow older, our bodies tend to dry out and it is even more important for us to consume enough water.

Since body heat relates to vascular dilation (also referred to as flushing) in most people, the rosacea sufferer needs even more water than the average person. The body and skin dilates when it is acidic from 'acidic foods, drinks, and exercise (lactic acid). Those with rosacea should consume between 10 and 16 glasses (4 liters) of cold water per day to cool the face and body and to assist the body in proper excretion of oil, "acidic" waste, (toxins). We have long heard of humans being intoxicated with alcohol. Alcohol usually has an "acid" pH between 2.0 and 4.5 depending on the type of alcohol beverage. The water must be cold to help prevent flushing and to reduce it once it has occurred.

The urine pH should be around 6.8 as an average ideal pH for normal body and brain function. Simply collect a small amount of urine twice per day at your leisure such as upon awakening and an hour or so before bedtime. You will find that urine is almost always acidic as urine is the waste product from the body, so obviously our foods and drinks need a much higher pH such as water to buffer or neutralize the acids of exercise (lactic acid) and stress (from adrenal hormones) and from the many acidic foods that we eat so quickly.

Consider how hot coffee, hot soup, and many other hot foods can make you flush (vascular dilation) -- by contrast, ice water curbs the flushing reaction by cooling the blood flowing to the brain's temperature center, which controls flushing (vascular constriction). Water also moistens the skin, greatly reducing clogged pores. Most importantly, water helps relieve stress during the day and relaxes the body for sleep. We cannot stress enough how important it is to drink water as water is usually alkaline (above 7.0 pH) from the tap of most homes. Please check your filtering system or reverse osmosis system to make sure that you are not changing the pH of your water to acid which is below 7.0 pH and causes us rosacea sufferers more than rosacea problems as "rosacea is more than a red face" as it is a signal that other organs are being affected which we can not see.

The hypothalamus is the body's thermostat which regulates temperature, but it cannot achieve this objective without adequate water. The body is approximately 70% water while the eye is approximately 96% water. Water is needed for skin tissue repair, efficient digestion, absorption, circulation and secretion. Water carries nutrients to the skin and body cells and removes waste from the cell and neutralizes or buffers the acids from exercise, stress, foods and drinks.

Acne And Anti-Wrinkle Treatments Can Irritate Rosacea

2006-09-06T10:46:00.000-07:00

Many of the acne treatments and anti-wrinkle products that have been used in the past have lead to rosacea and seborrheic dermatitis while the acne continues to be a problem. And likewise, the range of rosacea treatments have often resulted in little rosacea improvement and may even cause more symptoms thus dermatologist state that "rosacea is a chronic progressive skin disease". Most dermatologists have been baffled by rosacea and its treatment, and call rosacea an "enigma". Others state the treatment of rosacea is one of the least understood skin diseases. As the traditional treatments fail, alternative therapies have gained respect in the treatment of rosacea of which 82% of rosacea patients also have acne, and 35% have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for a delicate skin treatment condition when a person has two skin disorders, and even more so when a person has rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, and acne. Treatment can also be achieved naturally without using harsh chemicals. And always a good rosacea treatment is to reduce triggers by natural lifestyle changes.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Can Co-Exist With Rosacea

2006-09-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

The Rosacea Sufferer often has Seborrheic Dermatitis which co-exist in 35% of sufferers which makes for a most delicate skin condition. Seborrheic dermatitis involves overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil.

Adult Acne Can Co-exist With Rosacea

2006-08-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

Adult Acne co-exist with Rosacea in approximately 82% of sufferers. Adult acne, sometimes referred to as "Acne Rosacea", involves the presence of acne pimples. Acne rosacea is definitely food-related and stress-related. Stress and fatigue cause increased production of hormones by the adrenal gland with increased levels of androgens. These hormones worsens acne. And in women adult acne usually gets worse a week before the menstrual period as the natural estrogen in the body is reduced and as the estrogen increases during the menses; the menstrual period ends as the estrogen reaches the normal level. Acne rosacea often evolves from an irritated acne skin that has been abused with aggressive prolonged acne treatment. Acne rosacea usually develops in the 30's to 40's and the treatment is more delicate as often what improves the acne further stresses the rosacea. Please note that acne pimples with pus resulting from bacteria are 'not' rosacea papules which do not have pus but a raised "red" lesion that usually does not change in any way for weeks or months.

New Sunscreen May Irritate Rosacea

2006-08-07T12:33:00.000-07:00

Anthelios SX, an over-the-counter sunscreen that contains a new molecular ingredient designed to block the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Available in Europe and Canada since 1993, ecamsule does a better job of blocking ultraviolet A (UVA) rays than other sunscreen ingredients sold in the United States, the Associated Press reported. Experts have noted a link between UVA exposure and certain skin cancers, including melanoma and basal and squamous cell cancers, the wire service said.
With a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15, the safety and effectiveness of Anthelios SX was established in 28 studies involving more than 2,500 patients ranging from 6 months to 65 years old, the FDA said in a statement. Common side effects included acne, dermatitis, dry skin, eczema, skin redness, and itching.
The product, made by the French cosmetics firm L'Oreal, will be distributed in the United States by LaRoche-Posay, the FDA said.

Acne Rosacea

2006-07-10T11:01:00.000-07:00

The term "acne rosacea" first appeared in an English medical text by Dr. Thomas Bateman in 1812, who noted: "The perfect cure of acne rosacea is, in fact, never accomplished." Other 19th century references commonly listed rosacea among the different forms of acne.Finally in 1891, Dr. Henri G. Piffard, a professor of dermatology in New York, called for distinctions among different forms of acne to more truly differentiate symptoms.Today, dermatologists have learned that rosacea is a different disease from acne, and that therapy for acne can often make rosacea worse. Although the precise cause of rosacea is still unknown, most experts believe it is a vascular disorder that seems to be related to the flushing of rosacea.Research has also dispelled the centuries-old myth that rosacea is caused by heavy consumption of alcohol. While alcohol may aggravate rosacea, the symptoms of rosacea can be just as severe in one who never consumes alcohol.

Reference : Wilkin, Jonathan K: Rosacea: Pathophysiology and Treatment. Archives of Dermatology. 1994;130:359-362. Rosacea research has resulted in better rosacea treatments.

Rosacea Subtypes

2006-06-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

The primary and secondary rosacea features often occur together. The most common patterns or groupings of signs are provisionally designated as specific subtypes of rosacea are described here. Each subtype includes the fewest signs sufficient to make a diagnosis of the subtype (though not necessarily limited to these), and patients may have characteristics of more than one rosacea subtype at the same time.

Subtype 1: Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is mainly characterized by flushing and persistent central facial erythema. The appearance of telangiectases is common but not essential for a diagnosis of this subtype. Central facial edema, stinging and burning sensations, and roughness or scaling may also be reported. A history of flushing alone is common among patients presenting with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea.

Subtype 2: Papulopustular rosacea
Papulopustular rosacea is characterized by persistent central facial erythema with transient papules or pustules or both in a central facial distribution. However, papules and pustules also may occur periorificially (that is, they may occur in the perioral, perinasal, or periocular areas). The papulopustular subtype resembles acne vulgaris, except that comedones are absent. Rosacea and acne may occur concomitantly, and such patients may have comedones as well as the papules and pustules of rosacea. Burning and stinging sensations may be reported by patients with papulopustular rosacea. This subtype has often been seen after or in combination with subtype 1, including the presence of telangiectases. The telangiectases may be obscured by persistent erythema, papules, or pustules, and tend to become more visible after successful treatment of these masking components.

Subtype 3: Phymatous rosacea
Phymatous rosacea includes thickening skin, irregular surface nodularities, and enlargement. Rhinophyma is the most common presentation, but phymatous rosacea may occur in other locations, including the chin, forehead, cheeks, and ears. Patients with this subtype also may have patulous, expressive follicles in the phymatous area, and telangiectases may be present. This subtype has frequently been observed after or in combination with subtypes 1 or 2, including persistent erythema, telangiectases, papules, and pustules. In the case of rhinophyma, these additional stigmata may be especially pronounced in the nasal area.

Subtype 4: Ocular rosacea
The diagnosis of ocular rosacea should be considered when a patient's eyes have one or more of the following signs and symptoms: watery or bloodshot appearance (interpalpebral conjunctival hyperemia), foreign body sensation, burning or stinging, dryness, itching, light sensitivity, blurred vision, telangiectases of the conjunctiva and lid margin, or lid and periocular erythema. Blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and irregularity of the eyelid margins also may occur. Meibomian gland dysfunction presenting as chalazion or chronic staphylococcal infection as manifested by hordeolum (stye) are common signs of rosacea-related ocular disease.

Some patients may have decreased visual acuity caused by corneal complications (punctate keratitis, corneal infiltrates/ulcers, or marginal keratitis).Treatment of cutaneous rosacea alone may be inadequate in terms of lessening the risk of vision loss resulting from ocular rosacea, and an ophthalmologic approach may be needed.

Ocular rosacea is most frequently diagnosed when cutaneous signs and symptoms of rosacea are also present. However, skin signs and symptoms are not prerequisite to the diagnosis, and limited studies suggest that ocular signs and symptoms may occur before cutaneous manifestations in up to 20% of patients with ocular rosacea. Approximately half of these patients experience skin lesions first, and a minority have both manifestations simultaneously.

The Diagnosis of Rosacea

2006-06-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

Rosacea typically affects the convexities of the central face. The presence of one or more of the following signs with a central face distribution is indicative of rosacea. These signs are commonly transient, and each may occur independently. Many patients may present with more than one of these diagnostic features.
Flushing (transient erythema).
A history of frequent blushing or flushing is common.
Nontransient erythema.
Persistent redness of the facial skin is the most common sign of rosacea.
Papules and pustules.
Dome-shaped red papules with or without accompanying pustules, often in crops, are typical. Nodules may also occur. Although patients with concomitant acne may exhibit comedones, comedones should be considered part of an acne process unrelated to rosacea.
Telangiectasia.
Telangiectases are common but not necessary for a rosacea diagnosis.

The following signs and symptoms often appear with one or more of the primary features of rosacea, but in some patients can occur independently.
Burning or stinging.
Burning or stinging sensations with or without scaling or dermatitis may occur, especially on malar skin.
Plaque.
Elevated red plaques without epidermal changes in the surrounding skin may occur.
Dry appearance.
Central facial skin may be rough and scaling so as to resemble dry skin and suggest an eczematous dermatitis, and may often include the coexistence of seborrheic dermatitis. This “dryness” may be associated with burning or stinging sensations, and may be caused by irritation rather than the disease process.
Edema.
Edema may accompany or follow prolonged facial erythema or flushing. Sometimes soft edema may last for days or be aggravated by inflammatory changes. Solid facial edema (persisting hard, nonpitting edema) can occur with rosacea, usually as a sequel of the papulopustular type, and also independently of redness, papules and pustules, or phymatous changes.
Ocular manifestations.
Ocular manifestations are common, and range from symptoms of burning or itching to signs of conjunctival hyperemia and lid inflammation. Styes, chalazia, and corneal damage may occur in many patients with rosacea in addition to cutaneous stigmata. The severity of ocular manifestations may not be proportional to those of the skin.
Peripheral location.
Rosacea has been reported to occur in other locations, but the frequency and occurrence of this are ill-defined. Rosacea in peripheral locations may or may not be accompanied by facial manifestations.
Phymatous changes.
These can include patulous follicles, skin thickening or fibrosis, and a bulbous appearance. Rhinophyma is the most common form, but other phymas may occur.

A Rosacea Specialist or Rosacea Con?

2006-06-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

The rosacea community first heard from Geoffrey Nase in February 1999. Geoffrey informed us that he was a severe rosacea sufferer and a vascular researcher. Subsequently, his background and his zeal lead him to self publish a book titled Beating Rosacea. This book introduced us to new ideas about the basis of the disease and how we can go about treating it. This web site has promoted `Beating Rosacea' for several years since it was published in 2001. Recent events necessitate a question over the reliability of the information in `Beating Rosacea'.
Since the end of 2004, some in the rosacea community have lost faith in Geoffrey as a leader in rosacea. I want to believe that the last year doesn't mean that we have lost our hopes and dreams that came with Geoffrey ; but sadly my hopes appear to be poorly placed. A recent newspaper article also deals with this sad story.

The full story can be found at:
http://www.debunkingnase.org/index.php?title=Main_Page

The Rosacea Picture

2006-06-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

A rosacea picture can be effective in the treatment of rosacea. The chronic progressive skin disorder of rosacea can be tracked by a picture taken at various intervals of the treatment process. A chronological rosacea picture file is needed is useful in determining the progression of your rosacea condition and in judging the possible benefits of current treatment. It is difficult to tell from a picture of rosacea what degree of rosacea-related skin sensitivity may be present.

Rosacea And Sun Screens

2006-06-06T12:24:00.001-07:00

Sunscreens are designed to protect against sunburn (UVB rays) and generally provide little protection against UVA rays. UVA rays have a depressing effect on the immune system, and are therefore a "setup" for other dermatological problems such as rosacea.Sunscreens come in two forms:Chemical sunscreens contain chemicals such as benzophenone or oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) as the active ingredient. They prevent sunburn by absorbing the ultraviolet (UVB) rays. Most chemical sunscreens contain from 2 to 5% of benzophenone or its derivatives (oxybenzone, benzophenone-3) as their active ingredient. Benzophenone is one of the most powerful free radical general known to science. It is used in industrial processes to initiate chemical reactions and promote cross-linking. Benzophenone is activated by ultraviolet light. The absorbed energy breaks benzophenone's double bond to produce two free radical sites. Most chemical sunscreens cause various degrees of redness and sensitivity to rosacea sufferers. Staying out of the sun is the best answer. Please do not worry about the incidental 5 or 10 minutes especially early in the morning and late afternoon, but if you have to be out in the sun during the heat of the day or for long periods, wear a hat 'if possible' and a sun block or sunscreen. Baby Block by Banana Boat (SPF 50) and CityBlock by Clinique (SPF 50) provide the most blockage and the least irritation and sensitivity.Physical sunscreens contain ingredients such as zinc oxide, sodium chloride, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, iron oxide and sulfur.They work by reflecting the ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays away from the skin. These physical natural minerals as a sunscreen are preferable for rosacea sufferers. Also, you can get further sun protection by applying the chemical sunscreen over the "physical sunscreen" which helps to keep the skin from being irritated by the chemical sunscreen.

Rosacea Sun Care

2006-06-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

Because sun exposure was cited as the most common rosacea trigger by 81 percent of patients responding to a National Rosacea Society survey, it may be important to remember a few things over the summer when sunlight is at its height. Here are some tips for protecting yourself from the sun:
Avoid the sun as much as possible. Limit the amount of time spent in direct sunlight, especially between the hours of 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when sun is the strongest.
Protect your face. Use a sunscreen year round, but especially in the summer. Make sure it has an SPF of 15 or higher and is effective against both UVA and UVB rays.
Apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outdoors. Apply it liberally and periodically throughout the time spent in the sun.
Try a pediatric sunscreen. If you have sensitive skin, a pediatric formulation or a hypoallergenic sunscreen may minimize irritation.
Wear a hat. Make sure the hat has a wide brim or visor. You'll have added protection and may even make a fashion statement.
Stay cool. Seek the shade as much as possible and remember to stay hydrated by taking along a water bottle. Chewing on ice chips also helps, especially with flushing.
Don't take a vacation from medical therapy. Be sure to continue your normal cleansing routine as well as the medical therapy prescribed by your doctor.

She Survived 'Survivor' Without a Flare-Up

2006-05-31T08:41:00.000-07:00

When nurse practitioner Margaret Bobonich was diagnosed with rosacea in her late 20s, she had no idea she would be on television. As a healthcare professional, she knew rosacea was a chronic condition that required long-term medical therapy along with lifestyle modifications.
"Through the years, I had my share of flare-ups and sometimes they would be severe," Bobonich said. "I just tried to maintain a healthy lifestyle, comply with prescribed therapy, reduce stress and participate in sports activities to keep fit."
Like many Americans, Bobonich became intrigued by the television reality show, "Survivor." "In spite of having rosacea, I was a healthy and fit 43-year-old who still wanted to live life to its fullest," she said. "So, with the support of my husband and teenage sons, I tried out for the show and was chosen to participate in the 'Survivor - Guatemala' series."
With the help of her dermatologist, Bobonich focused on preventive measures to take while on the show. She applied topical medication daily, and made certain she was protected from the sun in a climate where temperatures may soar to over 120 degrees.
"Perhaps because I was the oldest cast member, I was the only one who made sure I wore sunscreen, a protective hat and light clothing to protect from the sun," she recalled. "I was very proud that my physical ability really wasn't an issue and that I never had a full-blown rosacea flare-up before I was voted off," she said.
Back home in Ohio, Bobonich is now working for a dermatology practice. She believes her personal and professional experience will help her impact the lives of others with rosacea. Her "Survivor" experience lives on as she has recently returned from a trip to Guatemala to aid in humanitarian efforts, and plans future trips there with a group of university students.

Oral Rosacea Treatment Wins FDA Approval

2006-05-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

CollaGenex said Tuesday it has received U.S. approval to market Oracea, which the company said is the first approved oral rosacea drug.
The company said the Food and Drug Administration has cleared for market Oracea to treat adults with the inflammatory lesions, including papules and pustules, caused by the skin condition.
CollaGenex said it would roll out the new dermatologic drug in July.
"Oracea is the first FDA-approved, orally-administered, systemically-delivered drug to treat rosacea," the company said in a statement.
Rosacea affects about 14 million adults in the United States, CollaGenex said.
"Oracea is the first of a series of dermatology products we have in development, and we are very pleased that our NDA was approved by the FDA within 10 months of submission," said Colin Stewart, CollaGenex's president and chief executive officer.

Treatment Alleviates Rosacea Symptoms

2006-05-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

ROSACEA LTD III is not a magical potion, nor is it a permanent cure for rosacea (rosacea is a progressive skin disorder that can be placed into remission, or limited; thus the name Rosacea Ltd). Rosacea Ltd is an extremely effective treatment system that significantly alleviates most of the symptoms associated with rosacea. Now in our seventh year of operations, our improved third version of Rosacea Ltd has been used by thousands of rosacea sufferers throughout the world who have benefited from the results of our patented rosacea formula.
The key to Rosacea Ltd III is simplicity. It delivers many well-known and well-documented anti-rosacea, anti-acne, and anti-seborrheic dermatitis ingredients directly to the skin, without the side effects that accompany most rosacea treatments.
Rosacea Ltd III™ will improve the appearance of rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis and acne. Initial studies of rosacea test subjects indicate—and 98 percent of previous Rosacea Ltd users confirm—that Rosacea Ltd is extremely effective in soothing and conditioning the skin to lessen the appearance of facial redness (erythema) and dilated facial vessels (telangiectasia), as well as rosacea-related papules.

The Treatment Of Rosacea

2006-05-22T11:33:00.000-07:00

The wide range of rosacea treatments have often resulted in little rosacea improvement and may even cause more rosacea symptoms. Many dermatologists are baffled by rosacea and the treatment of rosacea. Others call rosacea an enigma, while some say rosacea and its treatment is one of the least understood skin disorders. Treatment of rosacea with antibiotics, steroids and laser treatments has been a mainstay of treatment for many years. Many prescribed rosacea treatments such as steroids, retnoids, accutane, and various rosacea laser treatments do not work and, in fact, some these treatments may cause additional damage to the skin. Oral and topical antibiotic treatments for acne rosacea can work for up to several months before the bacteria become immune to the antibiotic, causing the antibiotic to lose its effectiveness. In the treatment of rosacea, it is important to treat rosacea in as many ways as possible: those who modify their lifestyles, eating habits and reduce their level of stress often experience a much greater degree of rosacea clearing. While you try to treat the symptoms of rosacea that are most visible and distressing, you should also try to treat the rosacea cause! If we find and treat the cause of rosacea, then maybe all the symptoms of rosacea need not occur!

The Ingredients in Rosacea-Ltd

2006-05-17T09:01:00.000-07:00

An overwhelming number of rosacea sufferers have found relief with Rosacea-Ltd. You need only to visit the online support groups to see the treatment mentioned often. But what is it?
The key to Rosacea Ltd III is simplicity. It allows for the direct delivery to the skin of many well known and well documented anti-rosacea, anti-acne, and anti-seborrheic dermatitis ingredients without the usual accompanying side effects. Rosacea treatments should treat rosacea symptoms without side effects. These ingredients are as follows:
A. Zinc: Topically applied zinc has been used for decades by various medical physicians for the treatment of inflammatory acne. They have used zinc either as the primary ingredient or in conjunction with other anti-acne medications. Currently, zinc is found in several different active forms in hundreds of over-the-counter skin care products and anti-acne medications. Topically applied zinc has been shown to have a potent anti-septic effect (Drs. Provost and Farmer). More specifically, evidence suggests that zinc has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal actions, as well as mild anti-inflammatory actions (Drs. Rock, Wilkinson, and Ebling).
B. Sulfur: For over two decades, sulfur has been used for the treatment of rosacea, and clinical studies have demonstrated that it is extremely effective in the treatment of rosacea-related papules and pustules (Drs. Ellis and Strawiski). Many dermatologists tailor rosacea treatments for rosacea symptom to the individual by varying the concentration of sulfur in a given preparation (from 2 percent to 15 percent sulfur). Because rosacea is a chronic disease, treatment must usually be continued for a long period of time. For this reason, Drs. Blom and Hornmark were interested in a non-toxic, topically administered treatment that would be as effective as orally administered drugs such as antibiotics. To date, these medical physicians use topical sulfur as their primary anti-rosacea treatment (Drs. Blom and Hornmark). In a double-blind clinical study of 40 rosacea patients, these physicians found that rosacea-related papules and pustules responded much better to topical 10 percent sulfur than to oral antibiotics. More specifically, they found that with four weeks of topical sulfur treatment, the average number of papules and pustules dropped significantly (from 213 pimples before treatment to 17 pimples after treatment), that this clearing was much better than that attained by treatment with oral tetracycline. In a separate series of clinical studies, similar results were found by Dr. Strauss and colleagues (Dr. Strauss).
C. Sodium Chloride, Copper Oxide, Magnesium Stearate and Polyethelene Glycol: These ingredients have long been well known for their anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory actions, by which they reduce redness better than antibiotics, and their vascular constrictor action, which reduces overall facial redness whereas no other products constricts the dilated skin vessels as these ingredients do so well

Rosacea Can Look A Lot Like Acne

2006-05-10T07:54:00.000-07:00

The inflammation of rosacea can look a great deal like acne, but blackheads and whiteheads are almost never present. It is a fairly common disorder -- about one in every twenty Americans is afflicted with it (Drs. Faria and Edward). Rosacea usually begins with frequent flushing of the face, particularly the nose and cheeks. This facial flushing is caused by the swelling of the blood vessels under the skin. This "red mask" can serve as a flag for attention. Telangiectasis is easy to recognize, characterized by the visible presence of capillaries, bright red in color. Diffuse redness frequently precedes the appearance of telangiectasis and is a constant flushed appearance. True diffuse redness is quite different from a localized erythema as seen in cases of sunburn, inflammation or over stimulation. With both telangiectasis and diffuse redness, the redness is not transitory and there generally is not an increase in skin temperature, but particularly there are no alterations in the tissue structure or biochemistry as seen in rosacea. The circulatory network of the skin is extensive and the capillaries are the smallest, most delicate vessels. During normal blood circulation the capillaries undergo constant changes. In between beats the pressure is relieved and the vessels constrict back to their normal size. This return to normal size is accomplished by the natural elasticity in the structure of the capillary. If telangiectasis is present, the capillaries' elasticity is deteriorated so they remain slightly dilated. The constant influx of blood perpetuates this slight dilation. The skin gradually becomes congested and eventually the capillaries become visible through the skin's surface. When it comes to telangiectasis, sometimes a person's lifestyle and habits can be the skin's worst enemy. In a fair, delicate skin predisposed to telangiectasis, a steady diet of hot, spicy food, chronic alcohol consumption and eating meals too quickly will promote telangiectasis. And many retinoids used for acne as well as many harsh soaps continue to aggravate the skin. Then there's cigarette smoking, which depletes the skin of vitamin C, essential for the formation of collagen, accelerates the crosslinkage of collagen and the hardening of elastin and furthermore creates a trillion free radicals, which destroy the capillary structure. Smoking, which additionally robs the skin of oxygen, is a potent initiator of telangiectasis. Also, the smoker may have a variety of medical problems such as high blood pressure, and mineral deficiencies, which can cause the appearance of telangiectasis.

Treatment of Rosacea Places Emphasis on Topical Therapies

2006-05-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Due to the development and release of newer topical rosacea formulations, the diagnosis and treatment of rosacea has received renewed attention over the past 3-5 years both in the literature and at medical symposia. Rosacea is a very common facial dermatosis. In the US, rosacea is estimated to affect 14 million people, predominantly adults with approximately 60% of cases diagnosed before the age of 50. A frustrating aspect of rosacea is it's inherent chronicity punctuated with periods of exacerbation and relative remission. A variety of rosacea subtypes have been identified which correlate with the patients rosacea clinical presentation. Although the pathogenesis of rosacea is poorly understood, multiple topical rosacea agents are available. The efficacy of topical therapy for rosacea relates primarily to reduction in inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules), decreased intensity of rosacea erythema, a reduction in the number and intensity of flares and amelioration of rosacea symptoms, which may include stinging, pruritus and burning. The list of main topical rosacea treatments utilised for the treatment of rosacea include metronidazole, sulfacetamide-sulfur, azelaic acid and topical antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin). Depending on the severity at initial presentation, topical therapy may be combined with systemic antibiotic rosacea therapy (e.g., oral tetracycline derivative). Newer choices primarily involve improved vehicle formulations, which demonstrate favourable skin tolerability and cosmetic elegance.

PMID: 14680431 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Feverfew May Be A Useful Treatment For Rosacea

2006-04-27T08:17:00.000-07:00

One of the primary active components of feverfew, parthenolide, inhibits serotonin release from platelets. Feverfew inhibits 5-lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase, resulting in a reduction in human blood platelet aggregation. In a recent study by Martin and associates, 45 days of treatment with 1% feverfew PFE (parthenolide-free extract) - Aveeno Daily Moisturizer Ultracalming, improved mild inflammatory acne by inhibiting the release of inflammatory markers from activated lymphocytes and reducing neutrophil chemotaxis. It is these immunomodulating properties that suggest feverfew PFE[TM] may be a useful treatment for rosacea.

Another Look At Rosacea Makeup

2006-04-24T12:10:00.000-07:00

How Does Rosacea-Ltd Work?

2006-04-20T10:20:00.000-07:00

How does Rosacea-Ltd work in the treatment of rosacea?
The Four Mechanisms of Action by which the primary ROSACEA LTD III ingredients of sulfur and zinc work are as follows:
(1) Rosacea Ltd is anti-inflammatory, thereby reducing redness (better than antibiotics which your body becomes immune to after 3-5 months).
(2) Rosacea Ltd is a vascular constrictor, so it reduces the size of the capillaries that cause redness and blushing (on which antibiotics have never had an effect).
(3) Rosacea Ltd dehydrates bacterial cells.
(4) Rosacea-Ltd III has a pH of approximately 7 (neutral). Many oral and topical treatments for rosacea are very acidic, which often makes for a continual problem for many rosacea sufferers and especially so in pregnancy and breast feeding.

The Goal Of Effective Rosacea Treatment

2006-04-18T10:47:00.000-07:00

The goal of a treatment for any condition is to “first do no harm”; therefore we recommend the following products which we have found to meet these criteria as effective treatments for rosacea.
For the cleansing of the skin, we have found that Cetaphil “moisturizing gentle cleansing bar for dry sensitive skin” is the cleanser that most thoroughly cleans to remove dirt, oil, and any topical products that may have been applied to the skin. Anything left for too long on the skin can clog the pores causing acne, pimples, etc… Be careful to choose the correct bar as some of the bars and the liquid cleanser may contain either harsh ingredients or alcohol which can further irritate the skin and increase redness. Even if the skin is oily, this is still the best choice as it will be the most effective in removing the excess oil from the skin. Cetaphil is available most pharmacy or drug stores.
For treatment of pimples or papules, an oral antibiotic can be effective, however keep in mind that bacteria become resistant to the antibiotic within a very short time and loose effectiveness. Antibiotics will not treat redness and may actually increase the redness if exposed to the sun. While taking antibiotics, remember to keep the body well-hydrated by drinking a minimum of 10 – 12 glasses of water each day. For an oral antibiotic you will need to contact your personal physician or medical practitioner.
Should you find that a topical antibiotic is needed, we suggest Noritate (a Metronidazole product) as the best choice. This is available by prescription in most countries.
Noritate™ is a treatment for rosacea which works due to the anti-inflammatory action of Metronidazole (an antibiotic) which is its active ingredient. Noritate is meant to help to reduce the spots and redness of rosacea through its anti-inflammatory action. It, therefore, may help to control, but not cure, rosacea.
Metronidazole is also the active ingredient in Rozex gel, Metrocream, Metrogel, and Metrolotion but Noritate is less irritating. It gets its name from non-irritating, i.e. No-irritate -Noritate.
Another safe, effective topical treatment for rosacea is Rosacea-Ltd III. The non-irritating, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties of its ingredients make it an excellent overall medication in the treatment of the redness, inflammation, and papules which occur with rosacea. The tan colored disk can be used effectively over and around the eye area to treat ocular rosacea. Rosacea-Ltd III is completely safe for use by pregnant or nursing women. Rosacea-Ltd III is currently available online at www.rosacea-ltd.com.
For drier skin conditions, Jojoba Oil (100% pure) is an excellent choice. This oil is the most similar to the natural restorative oil produced by the skin’s own sebaceous glands in the dermal layers of the skin. For this reason it is easily absorbed into the skin. Jojoba Oil is non-allergenic and will not clog the pores. Jojoba Oil is available at most health or nutrition stores.
Another good moisturizer is Vita-Oil for Delicate Skin by Linda Sy. It is a light; rapidly absorbed oil containing esters of vitamins A, C & D. Vita-oil is for those with sensitive, easily irritated skin. Unscented. Vita-oil is available online at www.lindasy.com.
An effective sunscreen is ZincO Cream, SPF 20 (tinted) by Linda Sy is the latest product development in the Linda Sy Skin Care line. It is a flesh-tinted cream, specifically developed for ultra-sensitive facial skin. ZincO Cream is available online at www.lindasy.com.
Physical sunscreen containing microfine zinc oxide that shields the facial skin from harmful UVB and UVA (both short & long wave) rays. -Protective barrier that soothes sensitive skin while protecting against wind, sun, cold, and heat (prevents skin from overheating).
ZincO is a physical sunscreen containing microfine zinc oxide that shields the facial skin from harmful UVB and UVA (both short & long wave) rays. It contains a protective barrier that soothes sensitive skin while protecting against wind, sun, cold, and heat (prevents skin from overheating).
Zinc-O gives facial skin a healthy tone while significantly diminishing redness and blemishes. This product washes off easily without the need for a harsh cleansing or rubbing.
Controlling rosacea is possible through positive lifestyle changes and avoiding the use of topical products which are damaging or irritating to the skin. As always with rosacea, “Less is More”.

Acne Treatments May Aggrevate Rosacea

2006-04-10T11:53:00.000-07:00

Rosacea can result from abuse to the skin caused by products and treatments that have been applied to the skin the treatment of other skin conditions such as acne.
As adults when we get a pimple we tend to treat it the same way we did as teenagers – our old acne zit cream or lotion packed with high concentrations of benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sometimes even topical vitamin A products. The only problem is our adult skin doesn’t respond the same way to these products as out teenage skin did. The result is red blotchy areas, more breakouts and increased skin sensitivity.
In trying to control this, we apply even more and stronger treatments to our skin, but instead of seeing an improvement, we actually see more damage and skin-related issues. To examine each of these traditional acne treatments more closely, we need to first examine what it is that we are actually applying to our skin.

What exactly is benzoyl peroxide?
Benzoyl peroxide is an oxygen-releasing chemical that causes drying, peeling and antibacterial action on the skin. It is the #1 topical treatment for acne lesions. The release of oxygen is important to combat the anaerobic bacteria present in the acne-affected follicles. The peeling and drying effects peel the acne pustules (vesicles filled with pus) and open up the comedones (non-inflammatory acne lesions, such as black heads or white heads). Benzoyl peroxide is absorbed in the skin where it is metabolized to benzoic acid and then excreted as benzoate in the urine. Side effects consist mainly of skin irritation including burning, blistering, crusting, itching, severe redness, and skin rash. Use of benzoyl peroxide for adult acne can often lead to a more serious skin condition called rosacea.
Rosacea is defined as a hereditary; chronic (long term) skin disorder that most often affects the nose, forehead, cheekbones, and chin. Groups of tiny micro vessels (arterioles, capillaries, and venules) close to the surface of the skin become dilated, resulting in blotchy red areas with small papules (a small, red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus, that is minor when the size is of a small measles lesion, moderate when about the size of a pencil eraser, and severe when the papule is the size of a small currency coin or the tip of the little finger) and pustules (pus-filled inflammatory bumps). The redness can come and go, but eventually it may become permanent.
Benzoyl peroxide based products seem to flood the market in acne treatment options. But how safe is benzoyl peroxide? The International Rosacea Foundation mentions these precautions when using benzoyl peroxide based products: Do not use this medicine in or around the eyes or lips, or inside the nose, or on sensitive areas of the neck. Spread the medicine away from these areas when applying. If the medicine gets on these areas, wash with water at once. Do not apply this medicine to wind burned or sunburned skin or on open wounds, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it is especially important to avoid using the following skin products on the same area as benzoyl peroxide:
Any other topical acne product or skin product containing a peeling agent (such as resorcinol, salicylic acid, sulfur, or tretinoin);
Hair products that are irritating, such as permanents or hair removal products;
Skin products that cause sensitivity to the sun, such as those containing lime or spices;
Skin products containing a large amount of alcohol, such as astringents, shaving creams, or after-shave lotions;
or Skin products that are too drying or abrasive, such as some cosmetics, soaps, or skin cleansers.
This medicine may bleach hair or colored fabrics.

Salicylic Acid is another common ingredient in many acne products. Commonly known as aspirin, salicylic acid is also used for wart removal. Salicylic acid removes the outer layer of skin and is toxic in large amounts. Salicylic acid can irritate or damage healthy skin surrounding the application site. On rare occasions, salicylic acid treatment causes scarring. Retinols or Vitamin A based products act as a chemical peeling agent which helps the skin to renew itself more rapidly. By increasing the rate of turnover of the skin, it reduces pimple and blackhead formation. It is commonly used to treat acne as well as to treat fine wrinkling. Topical vitamin A has a number of common side effects--such as burning, redness, itching, peeling, and stinging; but it is very effective at increasing the shedding of coenocytes, the cells of the topmost layer of the epidermis, contributing to smoother-feeling skin. It also reduces pigmentation and more evenly distributes pigment in the epidermis, resulting in the improvement of mottled hyper pigmentation. This really limits your ability to use these products as part of your daily skin care regimen.

Is there a better way to treat pimples without the resulting dryness, redness, flaking and irritation to the skin?
Many have found the use of zinc to be effective for acne. Topically applied zinc has been used for decades by various medical physicians for the treatment of inflammatory acne. They have used zinc either as the primary ingredient or in conjunction with other anti-acne medications. Currently, zinc is found in several different active forms in hundreds of over-the-counter skin care products and anti-acne medications. Topically applied zinc has been shown to have a potent anti-septic effect. More specifically, evidence suggests that zinc has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal actions, as well as mild anti-inflammatory actions.

Accessing Rosacea Information

2006-03-29T12:17:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is a hereditary, chronic skin disorder which most often affects the face. Groups of tiny blood vessels under the skin of the face dilate, causing flushing (general facial redness), spidery veins, and/or blotchy red areas with small papules (inflammatory bumps).
Ocular rosacea can cause inflammation, redness, and irritation of the eyes.
Rosacea can be aggravated by sunlight, stress, allergies, alcohol, spicy foods and extreme temperatures.
Topical steroids (e.g., DesOwen, Westcort) at first calm rosacea symptoms but over time may destroy the skin and cause severe disfigurement: "a flaming red, scaling, papule-covered face".
Pregnant women must be extremely cautious about any use of medication.
Stress aggravates rosacea and acne.
Cigarette smoking aggravates rosacea and acne.
Alcohol dehydrates the body and provokes rosacea-related facial flushing (redness).
Lifestyle changes and healthy habits can greatly reduce the redness, papules, and other symptoms of rosacea. Recommended lifestyle changes:
Reduce stress.
Drink at least 8 eight-ounce glasses of water (2 liters) per day. Ten to twelve glasses (3 liters) per day is recommended. Water should be icy cold. The hypothalamus, the body's "thermostat", cannot properly regulate temperature (and prevent facial flushing) unless kept cool and supplied with adequate water. Water also hydrates the skin, preventing clogged pores.
Avoid stimulants such as coffee, tea, tobacco products and excessive sugar.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid vigorous scrubbing, exfoliants, and other abrasives.
Use the right soap. Most soaps are too harsh for rosacea-afflicted skin.
Recognize and avoid foods and beverages which provoke a rosacea-related allergic reaction.
Avoid large meals; eat three small meals instead.
Exercise.
Avoid astringents and astringent soaps.
Change wash-cloths and body towels after each use.
Avoid the sun as much as possible. Sun exposure aggravates rosacea.
Rosacea-Ltd is simple and easy to use.
Rosacea-Ltd is more effective than antibiotics because bacteria cannot develop a resistance to its ingredients.
Unlike most rosacea products, Rosacea-Ltd has no known side effects.
You can be confident that you run no risk in buying Rosacea-Ltd.
Rosacea-Ltd effectively improves the appearance of skin affected by rosacea-related papules, pustules, facial redness and dilated facial vessels.
Scientific articles on rosacea, rosacea treatment, and rosacea-related lifestyle changes.Also The International Rosacea Foundation has very scientific rosacea treatment information that is very clear and helpful at The International Rosacea Foundation.Org.
Some rosacea sufferers also have lupus. The symptoms of lupus are listed

Treating Ocular Rosacea

2006-03-21T11:58:00.000-08:00

Tetracycline derivatives are the mainstay of therapy for ocular rosacea. Our standard regimen is to start with 100 milligrams of doxycycline orally twice a day for one month, after which it is used once daily for at least two more months.Therapeutic response. Patients are advised that there will be a delayed therapeutic response of several weeks. At three months, the medication is adjusted according to the therapeutic response: For marked improvement, the medication can be tapered to 100 mg every other day for the next three months. For mild to moderate improvement, 100 mg is continued on a daily basis. After six months, patients may go on “doxycycline vacations” for two to three months. Eventually symptoms will recur in most cases, and periodic reinstitution of low maintenance doses is necessary.Systemic vs. topical. For patients who can’t tolerate systemic tetracycline therapy, topical metronidazole gel (NetroGel) 0.75 percent twice daily or 1 percent daily, applied to the eyelids, has been shown to be safe and effective.Side effects. The major side effect that compromises the ability to use doxycycline is gastrointestinal disturbance. This is probably dose-related; it is ameliorated by taking the medication with food and is better tolerated with time. Photosensitivity may be a problem in some patients. All patients are advised to avoid excessive sun exposure and to use appropriate skin screening agents until their response to doxycycline is known.Contraindications. Doxycycline is contraindicated in pregnant women, nursing mothers and children under the age of 8.

Three-Step Approach
Tetracycline derivatives are most effective when used in conjunction with the following three-step approach:

1. Normalize tear film disturbance.
Warm compresses. These help further minimize meibomian gland obstruction and improve lipid flow into the tear film.
Punctal occlusion. Temporary or permanent occlusion is useful if aqueous tear production is deficient.
Artificial tear substitutes. These are useful until ocular surface wetting, punctate epitheliopathy and variable vision during prolonged visual tasks have improved.
2. Control bacterial overgrowth.
Lid hygiene. This is part of a long-term maintenance program to minimize meibomian gland obstruction, improve lipid flow into the tear film and control bacterial overgrowth.
Topical antibiotics. These are useful in the first month of treatment to reduce bacterial flora. Generally, they should be used when acute mucopurulent blepharoconjunctivitis, marginal corneal infiltrates or peripheral ulcerative keratitis are present.
3. Control inflammatory and hypersensitivity reactions.
Topical corticosteroids. These are useful in the first month of treatment to reduce ocular surface inflammation. Generally, they should be used if marginal corneal infiltrates, peripheral ulcerative keratitis without progressive thinning and/or vascularization are present.
Topical progestational steroids. Compounded medroxyprogesterone 1 percent may be used if peripheral ulcerative keratitis with progressive thinning is present.
In addition, topical progestational steroids are useful in conjunction with corticosteroids for treating progressive vascularization.

Dr. Kaldawy is assistant professor of ophthalmology at Boston University; Drs. Sutphin and Wagoner are both professors of clinical ophthalmology at the University of Iowa, Iowa City.

Rosacea And Antibioitcs

2006-03-17T12:19:00.000-08:00

Many rosacea sufferers have been frustrated for many years with unsuccessful or marginal results from many rosacea skin care products. Antibiotics, retnoids, Accutane, and steroids have been a mainstay of rosacea treatment for years. Rosacea sufferers have noticed that these prescribed treatments and various rosacea laser treatments have not worked well as a rosacea skin care product; also these past treatments for rosacea may have caused additional damage to the sensitive rosacea skin. Oral and topical antibiotic rosacea treatments for adult acne rosacea can work for up to several months before the bacteria become immune to the antibiotic, causing the antibiotic to lose its effectiveness. Oral antibiotic treatment actually cause more rosacea red symptoms. For information on the latest FDA findings, see Bacterial Resistance to Antibiotics.

Rosacea And The Nitric Oxide Connection

2006-03-14T07:09:00.000-08:00

Dr. Ethan A. Lerner, associate professor of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School.In research funded by the National Rosacea Society, Dr. Lerner examined the potential contribution of nitric oxide to the redness and inflammation of rosacea.

Nitric oxide is a gas produced naturally in nearly all of the body's cells and is used by the nervous, immune and cardiovascular systems. Because nitric oxide is known to make blood vessels dilate, it was hypothesized that it may play a role in rosacea.
The study aimed to test for the presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), a nitric oxide-producing enzyme, and the gene that creates NOS in the skin of rosacea patients through in situ hybridization and immunoperoxidase.
The in situ hybridization test was inconclusive; the researchers had difficulty obtaining clean results from the probes, and high background levels made it difficult to isolate NOS readings.
In the immunoperoxidase test, stains of biopsies taken from the skin of rosacea patients showed a normal amount of NOS. This could be interpreted as indicating that nitric oxide is not a significant factor in rosacea. However, Dr. Lerner believes that different types and severities of rosacea should be tested before the molecule can be completely ruled out.
The researchers also determined how much of a known nitric oxide inhibitor is absorbed through the skin, so that the effects of suppressing nitric oxide might be tested.
In other research, Dr. Lerner is developing a mouse model of what happens in human skin when too much nitric oxide is present. He is attempting to produce transgenic mice in which the gene for NOS is expressed in the skin under the control of a promoter, so that application of a topical compound will cause production of nitric oxide. Among the potential outcomes to be observed is whether too much nitric oxide produces any signs of rosacea.

Rosacea or A Similar Skin Condition?

2006-03-10T08:14:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is aggravated by many factors, including sunlight, physical and mental stress, sinus and allergy conditions, hot liquids, spicy foods, extremes in temperature, alcohol (either topically applied or orally consumed) and stress (Drs. McKoewn, Wilkin, Wilkin, Wilkin). But it is important to note that what aggravates one person's rosacea may have no effect on another person's condition (Dr. Wilkin)
The following other conditions can have symptoms similar to rosacea:
Acne is the term for plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent, but can also affect adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s. While there is no permanent cure for acne, it is controllable.
Psoriasis causes the skin to become inflamed, while producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales. This persistent skin disease occurs most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. In some cases, psoriasis is so mild that people don't know they have it. At the opposite extreme, severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body.
Eczema is used to describe all kinds of red, blistering, oozing, scaly, brownish, thickened, and itching skin conditions.
The word atopic describes a group of allergic or associated diseases that often affect several members of a family. These families may have allergies such as hay fever and asthma, but also have skin eruptions called Atopic Dermatitis. The disease can occur at any age, but is most common in infants to young adults.
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis in infants occurs mainly on the face and scalp, although spots can appear elsewhere. In teens and young adults, the eruptions typically occur on the elbow bends and backs of the knees, ankles and wrists and on the face, neck and upper chest.

Tips To Combat Rosacea

2006-03-07T13:05:00.000-08:00

Substances like alcohol and caffeine are factors causing roughly 16 million Americans to live with facial redness, also known as Rosacea.
Rosacea is a condition where the flushing of small blood vessels on the face causes your cheeks, nose or chin to redden and can even result in small bumps or acne on the skin.
Dermatologists offer treatment options, but you can also look to your local drugstore for "redness relief" formulas. Experts say a product that has green neutralizers will help conceal redness and even out complexion.
Doctors say to avoid future flare-ups, you should keep a diary of red episodes with notes on food, medicines and products so you can help pinpoint triggers.

The Plewig/Kligman Classication Of Rosacea

2006-03-03T11:32:00.000-08:00

Plewig and Kligman Classification of Rosacea
Stage I: The erythema may persist for hours and days, hence the old term erythema congestivum. Erythema lasting only a few minutes is not early rosacea. Telangiectases becomes progressively prominent, forming sprays on the nose, nasolabial folds, checks, and glabella. Most of these patients complain of sensitive skin that stings, burns, and itches after application of a variety of cosmetics, especially certain fragrances and sunscreens. Trauma from abrasives and peeling agents readily induces long-lasting erythema, thus the facial skin is unusually vulnerable to chemical and physical stimuli..
Stage II: Inflammatory papules and pustules crop up and persist for weeks. Some papules show a small pustule at the apex, justifying the term papulopustular. The lesions are always follicular in origin, mainly in sebaceous follicles but also in the smaller and more numerous vellus follicles. Comedones do not occur. The deeper inflammatory lesions may heal with scarring, but scars are inconspicuous and tend to be shallow. Facial pores become larger and prominent. If there has been much solar exposure over decades, the stigmata of photodamaged skin becomes superimposed, namely yellowed, leathered skin (elastosis), wrinkles and solar comedones. The papulopustular attacks becomes more and more frequent. Finally, rosacea may extend over the entire face and even spread to the scalp, especially if the patient is balding. Itchy follicular pustules of the scalp are typical. Eventually, the sides of the neck as well as the retroauricular and presternal area may be affected.
Stage III: A small proportion of patients goes on to develop more serious expressions of the disease, namely large inflammatory nodules, furunculoid infiltrations, and tissue hyperplasia. These derangements occur particularly on the cheeks and nose, less often on the chin, forehead, or ears. The facial contours gradually become coarse, thickened, and irregular. Curiously, patients may not notice these disfigurements. The deranged appearance becomes evident when photographs from previous years are reviewed. Finally, the patient shows diffusely inflamed, thickened, edematous skin with large pores, resembling the peel of an orange. These coarse features are due to extensively inflammatory infiltration, connective tissue hypertrophy, massive fibrosis and elastosis, diffuse sebaceous gland hyperplasia, and extreme enlargement of individual sebaceous glands forming dozens of yellowish umbilicated papules on the cheeks, forehead, temples, and nose. Thickened folds and ridges may create a grotesque appearance mimicking leonine facies of leprosy or leukemia. The ultimate deformity is the phymas, of which rhinophyma is the prototype. (Drs. Plewig & Kligman)

Oral Rosacea Treatment May Be Available Soon

2006-02-27T12:39:00.000-08:00

CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:CGPI) announced today that a Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) for Oracea(TM), has been filed with the United Kingdom's Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). The UK will act as reference member state in this decentralized procedure. The MAA for Oracea was submitted to the MHRA on February 24, 2006. A New Drug Application for Oracea was filed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in August 2005 and has been given a PDUFA date of May 31, 2006. If approved, Oracea will be the first orally administered, systemically delivered drug developed to treat rosacea.
The MAA was based primarily upon the safety and efficacy results of two Phase 3, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trials for Oracea(R). These studies enrolled a total of 537 patients in 28 centers across the U.S. In the two studies, patients receiving Oracea experienced a 61% and 46% mean reduction in inflammatory lesions compared to 29% and 20%, respectively, in patients receiving placebo. The differences were clinically and statistically highly significant (p = less than 0.001 in each study). Side effects of the drug were similar to placebo.
"This is an important step towards maximizing the worldwide opportunity for Oracea," said Colin Stewart, president and chief executive officer of CollaGenex. "If approved by the MHRA, we intend to seek registration for Oracea in other countries of the European Union."
Approximately 25 million adults in the EU suffer from rosacea. Rosacea affects primarily the face and is characterized by the appearance of inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules and nodules), erythema (skin redness) and telangiectasia (spider veins). If allowed to progress to a moderate to severe condition, rosacea can cause itching, pain and thickening of the skin.
CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a specialty pharmaceutical company currently focused on developing and marketing proprietary, innovative medical therapies to the dermatology market. CollaGenex's professional dermatology sales force markets Pandel(R), a prescription topical corticosteroid licensed from Altana, Inc., Alcortin(TM) (1% iodoquinol and 2% hydrocortisone), a prescription topical antifungal steroid combination, and Novacort(TM) (2% hydrocortisone acetate and 1% pramoxine HCl), a prescription topical steroid and anesthetic. Alcortin and Novacort are marketed by the Company under a Promotion and Cooperation agreement with Primus Pharmaceuticals, Inc. In addition, CollaGenex has filed an NDA for Oracea(TM), the first systemic compound for the treatment of rosacea, which is currently under evaluation by the FDA, and is conducting a 300-patient, Phase II dose-finding study to evaluate its second dermatology candidate, incyclinide, for the treatment of acne. CollaGenex also currently sells Periostat(R), which the Company developed as the first pharmaceutical to treat periodontal disease by inhibiting the enzymes that destroy periodontal support tissues and by enhancing bone protein synthesis, and Atridox(R), Atrisorb FreeFlow(R) and Atrisorb-D FreeFlow(R), which are products of QLT Inc., the successor to Atrix Laboratories, Inc., for the treatment of adult periodontitis.
Research has shown that certain tetracyclines can be chemically modified to retain non-antibiotic properties that may make them effective in treating diseases involving inflammation and/or destruction of the body's connective tissues. CollaGenex is evaluating various chemically modified tetracyclines (so called "IMPACS" compounds because they are Inhibitors of Multiple Proteases And CytokineS") to assess whether they are safe and effective in these applications. The Company has a pipeline of innovative product candidates with possible applications in dermatology and other disease states. In addition, CollaGenex has acquired the Restoraderm(R) technology, a unique, proprietary dermal drug delivery system, and plans to develop a range of topical dermatological products with enhanced pharmacologic and cosmetic properties.
To receive additional information on the Company, please visit our Web site at www.collagenex.com, which does not form part of this press release.
Statements in this press release, including statements regarding future revenues, gross profits, margins, operating expenses and any other statements about management's expectations, beliefs, goals, plans or prospects, may constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. CollaGenex' actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those factors contained in CollaGenex' most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004 and the most recent Form 10-Q for the Quarter ended September 30, 2005 under the sections "Additional Factors That May Affect Future Results" and "Additional Risks That May Affect Results" as well as other documents that may be filed by CollaGenex from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding CollaGenex' expectations, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future and can be identified by forward-looking words such as "anticipate", "believe", "could", "estimate", "expect", "intend", "may", "should", "will", and "would" or similar words. CollaGenex assumes no obligations to update the information included in this press release or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Soothing Ingredients For Rosacea Skin

2006-02-24T11:58:00.000-08:00

The ingredients of Rosacea-Ltd III are exactly what the rosacea skin needs. We have found that most of our customers have tried many products for years and spent many thousands of dollars only to continue to be even more frustrated with their current rosacea treatment. The ingredients of Rosacea-Ltd III have been compressed into a very 'smooth like glass' disk, while your own skin has probably been a 'rough rosacea skin surface'. The application is simple! After washing the skin and leaving it wet, the rosacea sufferer glides the smooth Rosacea-Ltd III disk over the skin to dissolve a very small 'invisible amount' of ingredients such as zinc oxide, magnesium stearate, sodium chloride, iron oxide, copper oxide, polyethylene glycol, and the very smallest amount of sulfur of any facial rosacea product on the market (sulfur is used topically on the skin and not to be confused with sulfa which is an oral antibiotic). Furthermore, there are no irritating preservatives such as methylparaben, propylparaben, and Quaternium-15, and contains no irritating fragrances which demonstrates the most favorable skin tolerability of any rosacea skin care product. Your Order will include both a tan and yellow/white disk which as shown on this page.The color of the disk is indicative of the ingredients in each disk with the color being invisible on the skin providing cosmetic elegance as compared to all other rosacea products. The sensitive adult acne rosacea skin sufferer that also has seborrheic dermatitis in 35% of patients has been very irritated by other rosacea treatments that were too harsh.

Topical Therapies For Rosacea

2006-02-22T09:24:00.000-08:00

Medical treatment of rosacea with emphasis on topical therapies.Del Rosso JQ.Department of Dermatology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA.Due to the development and release of newer topical rosacea formulations, the diagnosis and treatment of rosacea has received renewed attention over the past 3-5 years both in the literature and at medical symposia. Rosacea is a very common facial dermatosis. In the US, rosacea is estimated to affect 14 million people, predominantly adults with approximately 60% of cases diagnosed before the age of 50. A frustrating aspect of rosacea is it's inherent chronicity punctuated with periods of exacerbation and relative remission. A variety of rosacea subtypes have been identified which correlate with the patients rosacea clinical presentation. Although the pathogenesis of rosacea is poorly understood, multiple topical rosacea agents are available. The efficacy of topical therapy for rosacea relates primarily to reduction in inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules), decreased intensity of rosacea erythema, a reduction in the number and intensity of flares and amelioration of rosacea symptoms, which may include stinging, pruritus and burning. The list of main topical rosacea treatments utilised for the treatment of rosacea include metronidazole, sulfacetamide-sulfur, azelaic acid and topical antibiotics (clindamycin, erythromycin). Depending on the severity at initial presentation, topical therapy may be combined with systemic antibiotic rosacea therapy (e.g., oral tetracycline derivative). Newer choices primarily involve improved vehicle formulations, which demonstrate favourable skin tolerability and cosmetic elegance

Getting FDA Approval For New Treatments

2006-02-14T09:11:00.000-08:00

Although the cause of rosacea is unclear and is still under scientific investigation, there has been an explosion of new products -- many available without a prescription -- that imply they may help rosacea. How can rosacea patients know whether such claims have merit?
"In the case of prescription drugs, it is required by law that they undergo clinical studies to demonstrate safety and effectiveness, and the results must be reviewed and approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)," said Dr. Jonathan Wilkin, former director of the FDA's Division of Dental and Dermatologic Products. Advertising for these products -- unlike others -- can be readily identified because it must include extensive clinical information, usually shown in small type, about what the drug is used for, potential side effects and other information.
"While the FDA also monitors nonprescription drugs, I know of none that has been approved as a new drug to specifically treat rosacea," Dr. Wilkin said.
On the other hand, he noted that certain skin-care products may be used for cleansing or to potentially calm inflammation, and that green or yellow makeup can reduce the appearance of redness. "When it comes to products for skin care and cosmetic use, a patient's best bet may be to ask their physician for a recommendation best suited to their individual condition," Dr. Wilkin said.

Grants For Rosacea Research

2006-02-07T12:06:00.000-08:00

On the 11th of January 2006, the NRS announced that it has awarded 5 more grants for Rosacea Research."We are very pleased that a growing number of high-quality research proposals are now being received," said Dr. Jonathan Wilkin, chairman of the society's medical advisory board, which reviews each grant application and selects for funding those believed most likely to yield important results. "As this program continues to expand, we are optimistic that it will lead to significant advances in the management of this poorly understood disorder and its potential prevention or cure."
Martin Steinhoff, M.D., and colleagues, of the University of Muenster in Germany, received a $25,000 grant to pursue their theory that the protein endothelin-converting enzyme-1 (ECE-1) may regulate vascular function and nerve-caused inflammation in the skin, and thus be involved in the pathophysiology of rosacea. Their study will attempt to define the expression and distribution of the four ECE-1 isoforms in both normal and rosacea tissue, which may lead to new treatments for rosacea.
Richard Granstein, M.D., chairman of dermatology at Cornell University, and colleagues received a $25,000 grant to further their previous research, which found that substances that activate endothelial cells through P2 cell receptors cause the release of factors that promote inflammation. Their new study will focus on which P2 receptors are affected, and whether inhibiting these substances in vitro may facilitate the discovery of new rosacea treatments.
Richard Gallo, M.D., chief of the division of dermatology at the University of California, San Diego, and Kenshi Yamasaki, M.D., of the Veterans Medical Research Foundation, received a $25,000 grant to continue previous research, which found that individuals with rosacea have an overabundance of a natural antibiotic called cathelicidins. Additional research may show that abnormal regulation of cathelicidin production leads to rosacea, which in turn could lead to new therapeutic approaches.
Yaxian Zhen, M.D., and Albert Kligman, M.D., of the University of Pennsylvania's department of dermatology, will use their $25,000 grant to develop objective, quantitative assessments of rosacea using a variety of equipment. They note that these non-invasive methods would provide a means by which to measure the presence and severity of rosacea's symptoms, perhaps identify new ones, and gauge their presence and severity after treatment.The instrumentation includes scanning laser Doppler imaging, optical coherence tomography, confocal microscopy, specialized digital photography, colorimetry by chromometer and surface (nonsurgical) biopsy. Skin hydration would be measured via an electrical conductance device and a capacitance measuring device, and the skin's topography studied by a fringe projection device.
Payam Tristani-Firouzi, M.D., assistant professor, and Nancy Samolitis, M.D., visiting professor, of the University of Utah's department of dermatology, were awarded $23,600 to examine the effect of pulsed dye laser (PDL) and intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment of rosacea to determine whether, in addition to reducing the amount of blood vessels, these procedures produce structural and biologic changes in the skin.
The Rosacea Research Foundation donated $16,065 to the NRS toward the funding of this study.
"Because the etiology of rosacea is unknown, a high priority in awarding grants is given to studies relating to its pathogenesis, progression, mechanism of action, cell biology and potential genetic factors. Proposals relating to epidemiology, predisposition, quality of life and relationships with environmental and lifestyle factors may also be considered."

The Effects of Stress on Rosacea

2006-02-03T11:50:00.000-08:00

Rosacea flushing usually occurs when the body becomes fatigued and/or stressed. The key to this is the autonomic nervous system (more specifically, the sympathetic postganglionic efferent nerves). Any activation of these nerves causes vasoconstriction of "body blood vessels" -- except in the "facial blush/flush areas" where it induces potent vasodilatation or flushing with the resulting "rosacea flush".
Stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. Lack of sleep stimulates the sympathetic nervous system with a minimum of 8 to 9 hours being needed nightly to reduce stress. Anxiety (fight or flight) stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. An increase in internal body temperature stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, whereas obviously a decrease in body temperature decreases the sympathetic system due to the parasympathetic system calming the system.The sympathetic nervous system is especially important to rosacea patients who tend to have one or more of the following: genetically weak blood vessels; damaged blood vessels from years of sun; damaged support system for blood vessels (collagen-elastic of skin); or an increased number of blood vessels.

Theory of Rosacea

2006-02-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Rosacea could be defined as a genetic abnormality within the vascular structure, could it not? Under pressure it results in the vascular damage that leads to rosacea symptoms. It seems that many are interested in discovering what this genetic flaw is all about and how to correct it (ie with gene therapy).

But I began to wonder more about what causes this 'pressure'. For some it can bought on drugs, others by environmental factors, and it seems that many develop rosacea as a result of some underlying exaggeration of thermo-regulation. This last one is me all over. I have been getting Chilblaines all winter on my fingers and toes, yet my face flushes red hot to the slightest increase in heat. It seems that my body is totally over reacting to thermal stimuli, and I speak to MANY people who consider themselves in the same boat.

Hormonal maybe? A result of an allergy? Imo, if we could correct this then we would rid ourselves also of the superficial symptoms. Take this for example: I read a while back about a particular disorder (I forget which) which resulted in heavy duty facial flushing. Apparently non rosaceans were showing signs of rosacea before too long - their healthly facial blood vessels were buckling under the pressure.

Consider another example, menopausal women - I know women who've shown no sign of rosacea right up until menopausal hot flashes started. Then within a few short years they we well in mild rosacea (sometimes worse). Is it the because the EVERYONE has a breaking point? But most people never reach that point. For us, some other issues combine with our low 'breaking point' and cause us to develop the rosacea vascular damage.

Rosacea Sub-Types

2006-01-25T09:08:00.000-08:00

Subtype I — Persistent Redness (Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea)
In this most common form of rosacea, the face is easily irritated and the affected individual may appear to be blushing for prolonged periods of time. Persistent redness (flushing) may affect any part of the face, but it generally occurs on the central areas (nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin). Frequently, tiny widened or broken blood vessels (known as telangiectasia — tel-AN-je-ek-tay-ze-ah) can be seen under the skin.
Subtype II — Acne-Like Rosacea (Papulopustular Rosacea)
In addition to persistent facial redness and irritation, acne-like rosacea includes the development of red dome-shaped bumps known as papules (pustules, if they contain pus) on the face. The severity grading scale for subtype II rosacea is based on the size and quantity of bumps — from grade 1, which involves relatively few small, mild papules and/or pustules through grade 3 with more numerous, larger, and more severe eruptions
Subtype III — Thickening of the Nose (Phymatous Rosacea)
In the third subtype of rosacea, persistent skin flushing and inflammation is accompanied by thickened skin. Occurring mainly on and around the nose, the thickened skin is also bumpy, spongy, or pitted in appearance. It may become yellowish in color and waxy in texture due to increased size of the oil glands in the skin. The resulting large, rounded, red nose is known medically as rhinophyma (ri-no-FI-ma) and it occurs almost totally among middle-aged and older men. In some cases of subtype III rosacea, the chin, forehead, ears, and/or eyelids may also be affected. In Grades 2 and 3 of subtype III rosacea, papules and/or pustules appear on the face. Severe rhinophyma may block normal breathing.
Subtype IV — Eye Irritation (Ocular Rosacea)
Ocular rosacea eventually affects more than half of individuals with rosacea. Their eyes may itch, burn, or sting; feel as if they are swollen or dust is in them; and/or look red or bloodshot. Vision may be blurred and an inability to tolerate light may develop. Many individuals with ocular rosacea experience dry eyes due to abnormalities in tear production. On the other hand, this rosacea subtype can also make the eyes water. While ocular rosacea is not usually severe, it may cause scars on the eyelids or even on the corneas (the thin transparent coverings of the eyes). Rarely, vision may be damaged permanently.

Pyoderma Faciale May Be Mistaken For Rosacea

2006-01-19T10:49:00.000-08:00

Pyoderma faciale is an unusual skin condition occurring in young adult women. It can resemble severe acne or rosacea.
Unlike acne, pyoderma faciale:
Starts abruptly
Rarely persists more than a year or so
Is not associated with oily skin
Does not arise from comedones
Is confined to the face
Does not affect males
Compared with rosacea, pyoderma faciale:
Affects younger women
Is not associated with flushing
Does not affect eyes
There are unsightly and painful large red bumps (nodules), pustules and sores on very red areas of the cheeks, chin and/or forehead. The lesions may leave scars. When there are nodules but no pustules, it is sometimes called "rosacea fulminans". There is some debate whether pyoderma faciale is the same as or different from rosacea fulminans.
Despite the severity of the inflammation, there are no internal symptoms. No infective organisms are found in bacterial cultures of the affected skin.
Pyoderma faciale
Treatment
As this condition is rare, it is not certain which is the best medication to use. The following oral medications may help:
Antibiotics
Isotretinoin
Steroids
Most cases can be expected to clear up with a combination of these medications taken for three to six months. The patient should be under the care of a dermatologist.

Skin Care And Spa Expo May 20-22, 2006

2006-01-11T10:35:00.000-08:00

America's Expo for Skin Care & Spa, which will take place in May 20-22, 2006 at Navy Pier, Chicago, is totally different from any skin care event you may have attended in other cities in the United States or abroad.

The Expo provides the type of education that is just for serious facial skin care professionals - intensive education on the latest skin care, acne and rosacea treatments and techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to see the newest products from skin care manufacturers and to attend demonstration workshops.

“Cosmetologists Chicago and Skin Inc. magazine have worked together to make America's Expo for Skin Care & Spa one of the most dynamic networking experiences of the year by welcoming renowned educational experts in the skin care field and exhibitors offering the latest in products, services and equipment required for any successful spa business.” - says Paul Dykstra, CEO of Cosmetologists Chicago.

One of the important things to learn is how to analyze you skin professionally. All of the Expo guests will be provided with the vital guidelines to a successful analysis, will be able to classify skin types and effectively target racial skin differences, recognize primary and secondary cutaneous lesions and their importance.

Recent breakthroughs in antiaging research demonstrate that many aspects of aging can be prevented, slowed and even reversed with the implementation of an anti-aging nutrition, supplementation and exercise regimen.

America's Expo gives a chance to find a clue to such things as key dietary, environmental and genetic factors that affect the aging process, and provides evidence-based strategies to enable participants to assist and cosmetically reverse, the signs of aging. Skin care studies show concerns and needs of the ethnic client.

The most important questions the Expo to answer are the following:
- How to focus on these concerns and needs, how to analyze ethnic skin, ingredients to use in helping to correct these conditions?
- How to recommend home care maintenance by knowing ethnic skin care needs?

Acne is the most common skin disease in the United States affecting over 17 million people. The other America's widespread skin condition is rosacea. America's Expo provides you with scientific causes and solutions for acne, rosacea and sensitive skin. The participants will learn about the evolution of rosacea and acne rosacea, and how to address these conditions and what one should know about these skin disorders.

Rosacea's Red Face

2006-01-04T12:01:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is not to be taken lightly. Some writers have made a large amount of money preying on the rosacea sufferer without having experience nor the medical experience need. Some have even become rosacea experts with court room experience and rosacea embarrassment. You may squirm to learn of a rosacea expert that is just learning about life and many more 'red' life problems at Debunking nase and at nase court trial.

A Sign Of The Times In Rosacea Research

2005-12-19T11:30:00.000-08:00

The following appeared on the news column at the Rosacea Research Foundation:
The RRF is no longer accepting donations and is winding down with the aim of filing our disolution papers by December 31.
It is with sorry that we see the closing of this foundation.

SansRosa Purchased BY CollaGenex

2005-12-16T08:34:00.000-08:00

CollaGenex Pharmaceuticals Inc. said it will buy SansRosa Pharmaceutical Development Inc., an assignee of patent applications for the treatment of redness associated with rosacea and other skin disorders.
CollaGenex, a dental and dermatology drug maker, in a news release, said it will pay an initial amount of $750,000 for 51 percent of SansRosa's shares.
The remaining shares will be purchased upon the achievement of various milestones, CollaGenex said.
If the milestones are achieved and a patented product is developed and approved for sale, CollaGenex will pay the shareholders of SansRosa an additional $4 million to $6 million, the company said.

Factors In Rosacea

2005-12-13T09:36:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is a long-term skin disorder characterised by redness, flushing, pimples, visible blood vessels and, in advanced stages, thickened skin. The eyes may also be affected, appearing watery or bloodshot and can be prone to styes.
Rosacea usually affects adults between the ages of 30 and 60 and is more common in women than men, particularly during menopause. It tends to occur most frequently and noticeably in people with fair skin and can be hereditary.
Some factors which could aggravate the condition are heat, including hot baths, strenuous exercise, sunlight, wind, very cold temperatures, hot or spicy foods and drinks, alcohol consumption, emotional stress and long-term use of topical steroids on the face.

There are typically four different types of Rosacea:
Flushing and persistent redness, which may also include visible blood vessels.
Persistent redness with transient bumps and pimples.
Skin thickening, often resulting in an enlargement of the nose from excess tissue.
Dry eyes, often with burning or stinging, swollen eyelids and recurrent styes.

Rosacea can be very upsetting for sufferers, so if you think you have it, here are some tips to keep it under control:
Keep a written record of when flare-ups occur to provide clues regarding what is irritating the skin and limit these as much as possible.
Wear a sunscreen or moisturiser which has a UV filter of SPF factor 15 or higher.
Always use mild skin products and avoid applying any irritating cosmetics to the face.
Use water-based products and avoid those that contain alcohol, witch hazel, tea tree oil, acetone, eucalyptus oil, clove oil, peppermint oil, menthol, lanolin or mineral oil.
Men may find it helpful to use an electric shaver.
Oral antibiotics prescribed by your doctor may help but is not a long-term solution.
To conceal the redness, use a yellow-tinted foundation or a green make-up base.
Laser surgery is an option if red lines caused by dilated blood vessels appear in the skin and may improve the skin's appearance with little scarring or damage. The NHS can provide laser treatments but have inevitably long waiting lists so talk to your Doctor as soon as possible.

Facial Redness

2005-12-07T08:24:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is a chronic condition that first appears as a flushing or subtle redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead. Rosacea progresses from intermittent mild redness to persistent ruddiness and permanent, dilated blood vessels and acne-like bumps.

Rosacea responds well to treatment, but is not curable. Treatment includes prescription topical and oral antibiotics, which help prevent pimples and redness. In severe cases, Accutane may also be prescribed. Pulsed-dye lasers such as the Vbeam (cost, $500) can treat broken capillaries and may decrease the need for topical medication. Gentle, hypoallergenic products are also in order.

To prevent redness, identify -- and then try to avoid -- what triggers your episodes of intense flushing and blushing. Common triggers are spicy or piping-hot foods, caffeine, alcohol, stress, heat, sun, wind, exercise and anything -- including facial steaming, massage and hot water -- that brings blood to the face. Switch to physical sunblocks. They're less likely to irritate skin since they contain ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide that reflect UV rays and aren't absorbed into skin. To ensure complete protection from UVB rays, Maritza Perez advises one with octyl methoxycinnamate, which, she says, is the most hypoallergenic.

Brady Barrows Starts Another New Forum

2005-12-06T07:27:00.000-08:00

In a recent post on teh rosaceans yahoo support group, Brady made this announcement:

I have finally mastered php enough to make a private rosaceans forum at this url http://www.forum.rosaceans.com/index.php

We will see if this proves more popular than this yahoo group. php has proven a better medium to post on rosacea.

Brady Barrows

Conditions That May Occur With Roscea

2005-12-02T11:50:00.000-08:00

You can actually have more than one skin condition at a time! Many other skin conditions can occur at the same time as rosacea or have symptoms similar to rosacea. In some cases, treatment of one skin condition can lead to another skin condition.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Acne is the term for plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent, but can also affect adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s. While there is no permanent cure for acne, it is controllable. Often the harsher treatments used in the treatment of acne such as accutane, retinoids, Azelaic acid, and benzoyl peroxide can aggravate the sensitive facial skin leading to the occurrence of rosacea. Rosacea can occur with acne or become the result of the treatment of acne.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, Psoriasis causes the skin to become inflamed, while producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales. This persistent skin disease occurs most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. In some cases, psoriasis is so mild that people don't know they have it. At the opposite extreme, severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body. Psoriasis, frequently treated with topical steroids will cause thinning of the skin and blood vessels causing the tell-tale blush or flush of rosacea.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the word Eczema is used to describe all kinds of red, blistering, oozing, scaly, brownish, thickened, and itching skin conditions. Again eczema is often treated with steroids leading to a steroid-induced rosacea condition.
Seborrheic Dermatitis can coexist with rosacea. Approximately 35% of people with rosacea have seborrheic dermatitis which makes for an even more sensitive skin condition. Seborrheic dermatitis involves overactive sebaceous glands which cause inflammation, flaking and a red rash in the central portion of the face. If one looks closely, the flakes usually have a greasy look, smell and feel. The dryness of seborrheic dermatitis is perceived because of the flaking which consists of dried layers of accumulated oil. Seborrheic dermatitis causes yellowish scales to develop on the scalp, the hairline and the eyebrows; which is often confused with the crusting and scaling on the eyelids that occur with ocular rosacea. A doctor should check any scaling around the eyes, as the potential side effects of ocular rosacea are more serious than those of seborrheic dermatitis.Topical steroids used in the treatment of dermatitis can create steroid induced rosacea. This condition typically worsens when the steroid is stopped. In an unfortunate cycle the steroid may be reapplied to diminish the redness which only worsens the condition.

Discoid (cutaneous) lupus is always limited to the skin and is identified by a rash that may appear on the face, neck and scalp. Discoid lupus accounts for approximately 10% of all cases. Skin rashes occur in approximately 74% of all lupus cases. Photosensitivity occurs in approximately 30% of lupus sufferers. 42% of lupus cases are distinguished by a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.

Rosacea Is Follicle Disorder

2005-11-29T10:37:00.000-08:00

Rosacea is a disorder of the follicles and surrounding skin that usually occurs on the forehead, nose, and chin. It involves reddening, acnelike lesions, and broken blood vessels. Rosacea improves and worsens in unpredictable cycles. The exact cause is unknown.

Although rosacea can appear at any age, it is most prevalent between 30 and 60 years old. It occurs about equally in men and women, although severe cases are more common in men. Rosacea seems to have a genetic component. Individuals whose family members have rosacea have a higher incidence of the disorder.
Emotional and physical stress, windy conditions, heat, and sun exposure can exacerbate rosacea. Dietary triggers include dairy products, certain spices, hot liquids, and alcohol.
Some people with stomach ulcers are prone to develop rosacea. The cause of a high percentage of stomach ulcers is infection with the bacterium Heliobacter pylori (H. pylori). While studies are still inconclusive, eradication of H. pylori in ulcer patients can lead to improvement in rosacea. There is increasing evidence that this bacterium causes a variety of systemic disorders. However, rosacea appears without H. pylori and vice versa.

Doctors usually diagnose rosacea by observing the appearance of the skin. Not all redness, flushing, and blushing is caused by rosacea. However, redness that takes a long time to clear up, or never clears up, often indicates rosacea.
Acne pustules sometimes develop with this condition; however, blackheads are not a hallmark. Bacterial infections can contribute to inflammation. As the disorder progresses, the patient’s facial skin exhibits broken blood vessels. A rare symptom is rhinophyma, a thick, leathery texture of the nose skin. The eyes can be affected with irritation and increased light sensitivity.

If people predisposed to rosacea, preventive steps involve managing the environmental and dietary triggers related to the disorder. The use of sunscreen minimizes the effects of sun exposure. Staying indoors and using air conditioning during hot, humid weather reduces the heat component. An individual whose rosacea is triggered by dairy products, alcohol, or certain spices should restrict their intake or eliminate them from the diet.

Tips For Controlling Winter Induced Rosacea

2005-11-17T10:23:00.000-08:00

Here are some tips for controlling winter's effect on rosacea symptoms:
*Minimize time outdoors in inclement weather, and use a scarf or ski mask to protect the face from wind.
*Wear loose, layered clothing to protect from both cold outdoor weather and indoor heat.
*Use a sunscreen year round. Sun exposure is the most common rosacea tripwire, and can affect the face even in winter.
*Avoid holiday stress. Pace yourself, and do not over-commit to activities.
*Take cool-off breaks from holiday baking or cooking.
*Limit consumption of heated beverages as well as alcohol, another common rosacea tripwire. *Use an ice cube to lower the temperature.
*Be sure to continue using rosacea medication consistently.

Living With Rosacea In The Wintertime

2005-11-15T06:44:00.000-08:00

Whether you live in the north woods of Wisconsin or the milder weather states of the South, the winter months can be especially challenging for people with rosacea. Various factors -- from wind and cold to sun exposure, indoor heat and low humidity -- all rank high on the list of common triggers for rosacea flare-ups.
"Ocular rosacea especially tends to get worse in winter as the eyes become more irritable due to cold and windy conditions," said Dr. Guy Webster, professor of dermatology at Thomas Jefferson University Medical College. "Many people whose eyes are affected by rosacea do not realize the irritation is from a medical disorder and that it requires special treatment and care." He noted that common signs and symptoms of ocular rosacea include increased eye irritation, a watery discharge, eyes that feel gritty or very dry, a bloodshot appearance or the presence of a stye. "
In addition to medical treatment, patients with ocular symptoms should minimize time outdoors in winter," Dr. Webster said. "They can also protect their eyes from icy blasts with UV protected glasses or sunglasses."
The facial effects of rosacea are also frequently aggravated during the winter due to cold and windy conditions in the North or sun and heat in the South. And symptoms are often further exacerbated when "snowbirds" from the North escape to the South in search of sun and warmer temperatures, or conversely when those from a warmer climate plan skiing trips to the northern mountains and fail to take precautions for weather changes.
Many patients have noted that indoor heat also frequently poses a problem during the winter as well as spring. Regulating indoor temperature during changing weather conditions, as well as maintaining indoor humidity, can be difficult but well worth the effort to avoid flare-ups.
"In winter, the facial skin becomes dryer and more easily irritated," said Dr. Steven Feldman, professor, Departments of Dermatology, Pathology and Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest University. "
It's important to comply with medical therapy to keep flare-ups at bay and to make sure your topical therapy formulation does not irritate your skin." Dr. Feldman said that topical formulations can be matched to individual patient sensitivities, and noted for example that a recent clinical study found a topical gel may be less irritating for many patients than a cream formulation. He also recommended that rosacea sufferers use a moisturizer and a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher during winter months, since the sun can trigger a flare-up at any time of the year.

Health Can Affect Rosacea

2005-11-10T00:20:00.000-08:00

Coming down with a cold or suffering through allergies may be bad enough. Making matters worse, these conditions also cause rosacea flare-ups in many individuals, according to a survey on rosacea and other medical conditions by the National Rosacea Society.

In the survey of 837 rosacea sufferers,
32 percent of the respondents reported that their rosacea flared up when they experienced allergic reactions.
Twenty-four percent said colds aggravated their condition, and
20 percent cited fever as a problem. Of the women who responded, 21 percent said menopause had triggered flare-ups.

Other medical conditions associated with flare-ups in various rosacea sufferers included
cough (12 percent),
flu (11 percent),
stress (10 percent),
migraine (8 percent) and
caffeine withdrawal (4 percent).

The survey confirmed what many physicians have already found -- some underlying health conditions and temporary ailments can stimulate a flushing response and trigger rosacea flare-ups. In general, anything that causes flushing of the face can lead to a flare-up, and 42 percent of the survey respondents cited this as a rosacea tripwire.

Medical therapy for other health conditions also may bring about a flare-up in some individuals, the survey showed. Ten percent of the survey respondents said they experienced flare-ups in reaction to topical steroids.

Smaller numbers reported rosacea flare-ups associated with
ACE inhibitors (5 percent),
cholesterol-lowering agents (4 percent) and
vasodilators (3 percent).
Nine percent of the respondents said their health care providers had changed their therapy to avoid medications that seemed to aggravate their rosacea. Fortunately, nearly 72 percent of the respondents said their rosacea improved after other medical conditions were under control.

Managing the Holiday Rosacea Flares

2005-11-06T02:40:00.000-08:00

The festive holiday season is approaching and, although it is a time of joy and celebration, rosacea patients must be extra diligent in avoiding flare-ups during this time of year. Here are some tips for getting through the upcoming holidays and keeping rosacea at bay:
Avoid stress. Stress is not only a leading rosacea trigger, but is often at an all-time high during this busy season. Taking good care of yourself -- getting plenty of rest, eating right, avoiding worry or over-committing yourself and maintaining a daily exercise routine -- can go a long way in controlling your condition. When a stressful situation occurs, remember to use deep breathing or other stress-reducing techniques.
Protect yourself. Wind and cold weather affect many rosacea patients. Wear a hat and scarf that protect your face, and use a sunscreen if you're outdoors.
Keep the kitchen cool. Indoor heat is a common rosacea trigger, especially if the holidays mean extended time cooking. Be sure the kitchen is well ventilated. Keep a cool, damp towel around to pat on your face, sip a cool drink or chew ice chips to avoid flushing. Take a break to a cooler room when possible.

The Future of Rosacea Research?

2005-11-03T07:47:00.000-08:00

In a recent letter from the NRS, thanking the RRF supporters, Mr. Sam Huffhas revealed some interesting information about the NRS.

All donations from individuals, either via their web site, or via post are directed solely towards research funding. This has been the case for several years. The promotional and support activities of the NRS are funded from industry and other sources.

This means that everyone is able to directly fund rosacea research by donating to the NRS.

The letter is here http://rosacea-research.org/pdfs/NRSThankYou.pdf

One of the positive things to emerge of late is the dialogue between the RRFand the NRS. We have discovered that the NRS is indeed keen to expand its research funding program. Mr. Huff has also taken the opportunity to politely respond to public concerns about the operation of the NRS.

We all look forward to what the NRS and rosacea sufferers together can achieve. Please generously support the NRS now and into the future. It is only when rosacea sufferers decide to vote with their dollars that our future will be within our control.

davidp.--David Pascoe,

Medication Induced Rosacea

2005-10-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Rosacea Skin Care

2005-10-23T04:36:00.000-07:00

Optimum health and beauty in skin care is actually a result of finding the right balance to unlock the full potential of your skin. Eating and drinking properly is not only less expensive but much healthier over both the short and long term. And a 'proper rosacea diet' over the long run reduces the chance of poor health and diseases such as diabetes, allergies, sinus conditions, obesity, osteoporosis, rheumatism, arthritis, lupus, and cancer. While as a rosacea sufferer we are very concerned about our facial appearances, however, with some of these aforementioned debilitating diseases, many of these patients don't even want to go out socially. Many of these problems can be prevented or drastically reduced by an alkaline diet as 'acid foods and drinks' cause many of the problems.

Conditions Similar To Rosacea

2005-10-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

Acne is the term for plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent, but can also affect adults in their 20s, 30s and 40s. While there is no permanent cure for acne, it is controllable.
Psoriasis causes the skin to become inflamed, while producing red, thickened areas with silvery scales. This persistent skin disease occurs most often on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. In some cases, psoriasis is so mild that people don't know they have it. At the opposite extreme, severe psoriasis may cover large areas of the body.
Eczema is used to describe all kinds of red, blistering, oozing, scaly, brownish, thickened, and itching skin conditions.
The word atopic describes a group of allergic or associated diseases that often affect several members of a family. These families may have allergies such as hay fever and asthma, but also have skin eruptions called Atopic Dermatitis. The disease can occur at any age, but is most common in infants to young adults.
Eczema/Atopic Dermatitis in infants occurs mainly on the face and scalp, although spots can appear elsewhere. In teens and young adults, the eruptions typically occur on the elbow bends and backs of the knees, ankles and wrists and on the face, neck and upper chest.

Classic Rosacea

2005-10-17T04:15:00.000-07:00

The rosacea classic symptoms are patchy flushing (redness) and inflammation, particularly on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and around the mouth. Rosacea typically appears between the ages of 30 and 50 and affects more women than men. As symptoms emerge slowly, rosacea may initially be mistaken for sunburn, leading to a delay in proper rosacea treatment. Rosacea treatment delayed is 'rosacea treatment denied'.
Rosacea is a hereditary; chronic (long term) skin disorder that most often affects the nose, forehead, cheekbones, and chin (Dr. Berasques). Groups of tiny microvessels (arterioles, capillaries, and venules) close to the surface of the skin become dilated, resulting in blotchy red areas with small papules (a small, red solid elevated inflammatory skin lesion without pus) and pustules (pus-filled inflammatory bumps). The redness can come and go, but eventually it may become permanent. Furthermore, the skin tissue can swell and thicken and may be tender and sensitive to the touch. Pustules are 'not' pimples. Pimples have a bacterial component to their makeup and are also mainly localized in and around the hair follicles while papules are a raised solid red lesion without pus.
Although it may first appear as early as the teen years, rosacea symptoms most frequently begins when rosacea sufferers enter their 30s, 40s or 50s as a flushing or transient redness on the cheeks or nose, and in some cases the chin or forehead. In this earliest stage, some patients may report stinging or burning sensations, including the feeling of dry or tight skin.
"While the incidence of rosacea appears to be rising sharply as more people enter the most susceptible age, many mistakenly think it's just a complexion problem that will go away by itself -- it usually keeps growing worse if left unchecked," said Dr. Joseph Bikowski, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at the University of Pittsburgh. "Of greatest concern is that only a small percentage of rosacea sufferers realize that medical help is available from dermatologists to halt its progression and reverse its symptoms."
Rosacea may be persistent and worsen over time, leading to permanent changes in appearance and affecting self-esteem. The condition is treatable. Most cases can be controlled easily by avoiding factors that trigger flushing, using sun protection, and by keeping the body well hydrated with water.

Adult Acne Can Co-Exist With Rosacea

2005-10-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Look of Progress in Rosacea

2005-10-10T23:26:00.000-07:00

From: David Pascoe [david.pascoe@rosacea-research.org]
To: rosacea-research-foundation@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Mon 10/10/2005 7:39 PM

The Rosacea Research Foundation is pleased to announce that our funds have been allocated to a grant. The grant will be allocated to a study called "Structural and biologic changes in the rosacea skin induced by pulse dye laser and intense pulsed light". The grant has been awarded to Drs. Payam Tristani-Firouzi and Nancy Samolitis.

Dr. Chuck Young, Artist Cloutier and David Pascoe would personally like to thank the following for their expert opinion in reviewing and ultimately approving this grant.

Rosacea Research Foundation Medical Advisory Committee

Dr. Linda Sy
Board Certified Dermatologist
Linda Sy Skincare

Dr. Nicholas Soldo
Anaesthetist & IPL Consultant

Dr. Peter Drummond
Associate Professor, School of Psychology Murdoch University

Dr. Chuck Young
Vice President Rosacea Research Foundation

Rosacea Guru Loses in Court

2005-10-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

Rosacea guru to end battle over critics' site
By Kevin Corcorankevin.corcoran@indystar.com

A Fishers physiologist whose online postings turned him into a guru for people suffering from rosacea agreed Thursday to abandon his legal fight to silence a Web site questioning his credentials and advice.

Published anonymously, the site claims Geoffrey Nase, 36, is practicing medicine without a license and dispensing potentially harmful advice to many thousands of people desperately seeking a cure for the tough-to-treat inflammatory skin disease.

Nase -- who has made claims about himself that Indiana medical groups have refuted -- unmasked his cybercritics, and Thursday he tried to confront them in Marion Superior Court.

After several hours of attorneys for the Web site operators and Nase shuttling in and out of Judge Kenneth Johnson's office, both sides said they had reached an agreement in principle.

Nase's attorney, Vincent Perez, described it as a confidential settlement. However, Ronald J. Waicukauski, the attorney for the out-of-state Web site operators, said his clients would continue to maintain their online presence and that Nase agreed to drop his lawsuit by Jan. 31.

In court filings, Nase claims his online rosacea critics slandered him, interfered in his business pursuits and dried up sales of his self-published, 332-page book on the incurable and progressive acnelike disease. He had asked Johnson to order the Web site shut down immediately.Nase has stated he filed the suit in mid-August to defend his reputation.

The case would have required Johnson to balance the critics' First Amendment rights against the potential harm to Nase's Internet business prospects.The defendants -- Dr. Nicholas Soldo, an anesthesiologist from Scottsdale, Ariz., who uses lasers to treat rosacea, and one of Soldo's former patients, Laura Thomas, Asheville, N.C. -- say they can back up claims that Nase has inflated his credentials and dispensed harmful advice.

Both attended what was supposed to be a full-blown evidentiary hearing Thursday."Under no circumstances was that Web site coming down," Soldo said after the closed-door settlement talks. "It's too important to the rosacea community."

Online, the flare-ups between Nase and his critics have been dubbed the "Rosacea Wars" or "Nase wars" because of the way the caustic exchanges have roiled chat boards devoted to the disease.

Johnson said he did an online search during the settlement talks he initiated and found at least 10 pages of back-and-forth."I said, 'Geez, you guys have been really, really busy,' " Johnson said.

Nase estimates he has personally posted 55,000 individual messages touting rosacea research and offering free advice to sufferers within the past nine years. In addition, he ships his self-published paperback, "Beating Rosacea: Vascular, Ocular & Acne Forms," directly from his office for $46.90 plus shipping and handling, according to Amazon.com.

Nase has a doctoral degree in microvascular physiology from West Virginia University's School of Medicine. Nase runs an online site called "drnase.com" for rosacea sufferers looking for alternative treatments.Waicukauski told the court Nase "has ruthlessly attacked virtually anyone who disagrees with him." Soldo and Thomas are both ex-supporters of Nase who created the "DebunkingNase" Web site to challenge Nase's various claims.

They say they began to have doubts about him after he told his online supporters of a series of medical calamities this spring that included five gastrointestinal surgeries, the loss of 45 percent of his blood, heart attacks, major brain surgeries and a blood infection.

Yet, they say, Nase soon was back online. He even claimed to have done a business deal while in a coma.

During a deposition Sept. 30, Nase refused to answer questions about his medical treatment. He asked Johnson to block access to his medical records.Thomas said she began checking other online claims Nase had made and uncovered inconsistencies in his background.

For instance, Nase has stated that "after detailed interviews and evaluation," Indiana's Medical Licensing Board had "granted Dr. Geoffrey Nase full privileges to offer in-depth consultations to rosacea sufferers." However, Michael Rinebold, the board's director, said Nase's claim is false.

Nase also has stated the Indiana State Medical Association gave him approval to call himself a rosacea specialist, to consult with patients over the Internet and to dispense medical advice. "I can tell you point-blank that is a bold-faced lie," said Adele Lash, the association's spokeswoman.

Nase did not return a call to his home Thursday seeking comment after the settlement was reached.He has said his critics launched their Internet site after learning that he would be partnering with a dermatologist in Portland, Ore., who offers laser treatments for rosacea that would compete with Dr. Soldo's national practice. Nase received $6,000 a month for referring people to the Oregon clinic -- a financial tie that critics say he failed to disclose.

Nase's online detractors say the arrangement -- and his decision to seek damages against the "DebunkingNase" site operators for lost income -- ran counter to online assertions that he has "never ever made a single penny for anything related to rosacea."

The Rosacea Research Foundation

2005-10-03T20:34:00.000-07:00

The Rosacea Research Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to funding novel research on the underlying causes of rosacea, analyzing triggers for rosacea flares, and finding effective treatments that address the root causes of the disorder. The foundation's primary objective is to raise funds for cutting-edge research and human clinical trials.

The International Rosacea Foundation

2005-10-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

The International Rosacea Foundation is a non-profit organization whose primary mission is to make available easy readable rosacea symptom and rosacea treatment information on one web site. This information has been chosen from medical books, medical journal articles, and on the web and with available credits to those rosacea writers. Information provided by the International Rosacea Foundation about products, medical conditions, and symptoms, has been obtained from the manufacturer's prescription product information inserts and from their web sites sponsoring these products. The information provided by this site is not intended to replace consultation with a specialist. However, one then has to ask, "Who is an expert or specialist on rosacea skin conditions?" Dermatologist think of rosacea as an enigma. Also, dermatologist continue to be baffled by this misunderstood skin disorder. One prominent rosacea expert stated, "We know less about rosacea than any other skin disorder." Rosacea conditions and treatments may vary substantially from one patient to another, and treatment must be tailored for each individual case. Therefore, we do not answer individual questions about your skin condition. The secondary mission is to provide research for better medical products for rosacea sufferers.

Rosacea Research & Development Institute

2005-09-30T22:58:00.000-07:00

Rosacea Research & Development Institute Newsletter - September 2005 http://www.irosacea.org The RRDi is still up and running, awaiting 501 (c) (3) approval from the Internal Revenue Service of the USA. The application was filled out and sent in by a Certified Public Accountant who did this for the unusual price of only $500. With the other expenses that leaves us about $59 in the bank. The news is that Warren Stuart, RRDi Assistant Director, has spent an untold number of hours volunteering to make a private forum for members of the corporation. This will not be a public forum and will only be available to registered corporate members of the RRDi. The RRDi has maintained a database of members but the Articles of Incorporation state that each corporate member must provide a name, a mailing address, two email addresses, and state whether or not the member is a rosacean. There are some who have joined who have not provided this information and will be notified that they are not a legal member unless they provide this information. Corporate members have certain legal voting rights in the corporation. If you wish to use the new private forum as a corporate member, you will have to REGISTER as a corporate member by going to the forum at this url > http://www.forum.irosacea.org The difference between the RRDi and all the other non profits for rosacea are: (1) First non profit organization made by rosaceans for rosaceans (2) Public access to the Articles of Incorporation, By Laws, and Conflict of Interest Policy - no other rosacea non profit to date has ever done this (3) Public access to an exact accounting of the funds received and spent - no other non profit for rosacea does this (4) Corporate members can choose who serves on the Board of Directors - no other non profit for rosacea does this. The board of directors hope you see the difference and will be a volunteer who supports the RRDi and its mission statement, as follows: The Rosacea Research & Development Institute [RRDi] is the first non-profit organization made by rosaceans for rosaceans that will collect donations for rosacea research to be performed by physicians and biomedical research scientists and includes these specific goals: Goal # 1: To be the first non profit organization for rosacea patient advocacy. Goal # 2: To have a majority of rosaceans the right to vote who sits on the board of directors. Goal # 3: To make this the first rosacea specific non profit organization to utilize most of the donations for research and treatment development. This is in stark contrast to non profit organizations that spend 50% to 80% of their donations on paying their staff. Goal # 4: To allow rosacea sufferers to guide where and how the money is spent on rosacea research and be the first non profit organization to allow rosaceans to be members of the corporation. Until June 7, 2004, the date of incorporation, there had been no other non profit organization that allowed input from rosacea sufferers. Goal # 5: To attain a level such that the RRDi can directly impact medical articles published on the subject, information disseminated to physicians and rosacea sufferers and apply positive pressure on the medical community that does not take rosacea seriously.Brady Barrows

The Zileuton Debate

2005-09-29T08:45:00.000-07:00

A member from the RS group was saddened to read a recent release on the effect of Zileuton on moderate to severe acne in a small study. It is quite tricky to evaluate results and to extrapolate those findings to rosacea. He sadly crossed off this oral medication for rosacea too. Some points to make that show this will be used off label for rosacea: 1. Countless rosacea sufferers using Singulair for other disorders have noticed significant clearance of inflammatory rosacea and flushing. Ths is what opened up the eyes for an even more specific medication, Zyflo (zileuton). 2. Acne has many variables in its causation that are distinctly different from rosacea papules and pustules, so its impossible to compare. 3. It is known and published that inflammatory leukotrienes (the ones Zyflo blocks) are involved in rosacea inflammation of the dermis, swelling, papule formation and active flushing. These are abnormally high and thus blocking the enzyme that makes them will bring relief to many. Its frustrating some times to read an article and not know how to evaluate it or come to the wrong conclusion. No problems or setbacks that I see with this med for rosacea. Even the CEO stated the promising signs of this study. "We believe this small trial supports that 5-LO inhibition may be a useful therapy in patients with moderate to severe inflammatory acne," said Critical Therapeutics President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Rubin, M.D. "The relative severity of disease and size of the patient population in this study have given us valuable information to consider for the design of any clinical trials in acne patients that we may decide to pursue in the future."

G. Nase's View

Zileuton

2005-09-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Critical Therapeutics Announces Results from Phase II Study of Zileuton inAcne PatientsLEXINGTON, Mass.--

(Critical Therapeutics,Inc. (Nasdaq: CRTX ) today announced that the Company's Phase II study of ZYFLO®Filmtab® (zileuton tablets) in patients with moderate to severe inflammatoryfacial acne did not show statistical significance in its primary efficacyendpoint. The patients receiving zileuton did show positive responses totreatment and a trend toward significance in certain endpoints, however, theresponses did not achieve statistical significance (p less than or equal to0.050), as compared to the responses seen by patients receiving placebo. In thestudy, zileuton was found to be safe and well tolerated.The Phase II randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved101 patients with moderate to severe inflammatory facial acne who received afour-times-daily dosage of zileuton 600 mg (n=52) or placebo (n=49) for 12weeks. Patients were enrolled into the study at 12 sites across the UnitedStates and ranged in age from 12 to 44 years with the patient mean age being19.2 years. The study included a number of efficacy endpoints as measured by thechange from baseline to Week 12, such as the number of inflammatory lesions,which was the study's primary efficacy endpoint, the number of non-inflammatorylesions and the number of total lesions (inflammatory and non-inflammatory).The patients treated with zileuton showed a mean reduction in inflammatorylesions of 11.5, compared with a mean reduction of 9.1 lesions in the placebogroup (p=0.384). This corresponds to a mean percent decrease in inflammatorylesions of 33.5 percent in patients treated with zileuton, compared to 26.9percent in the placebo group. Patients treated with zileuton showed a meanreduction in the total number of lesions of 25.3, compared to a mean reductionof 16.4 lesions in the placebo group (p=0.085). Zileuton was well tolerated inthe study with no serious adverse events reported in patients. Moreover, therewere no zileuton-treated patients discontinued from the study due to elevationsof liver enzymes.The study also showed a positive trend toward significance in a subset ofpatients with more severe acne (baseline inflammatory lesions greater than orequal to 30). In these more severe patients, those treated with zileuton (n=26)showed a mean reduction of 16.2 inflammatory lesions, compared with a meanreduction of 11.7 inflammatory lesions in the placebo group (n=24) (p=0.063).This corresponds to a mean percent decrease in inflammatory lesions of 41.6percent in patients treated with zileuton, compared to 26.2 percent in theplacebo group (p=0.025). The study also provided data regarding the rapid effectof zileuton. Patients treated with zileuton showed marginal significance in themean reduction of total facial lesions at Week 4 (p=0.078) and Week 8 (p=0.057)."We believe this small trial supports that 5-LO inhibition may be a usefultherapy in patients with moderate to severe inflammatory acne," said CriticalTherapeutics President and Chief Executive Officer, Paul Rubin, M.D. "Therelative severity of disease and size of the patient population in this studyhave given us valuable information to consider for the design of any clinicaltrials in acne patients that we may decide to pursue in the future."The Company is continuing to analyze the data and will be working with theinvestigators to further interpret the results seen in this study. Once thisanalysis is complete, the Company will determine the appropriate next steps forthe development of zileuton in the treatment of patients with acne. The Companyexpects to provide further details about the study on its second quarterfinancial results conference call on Thursday, August 4, 2005.

Two Views of Sans Rosa - G. Nase

2005-09-27T08:45:00.000-07:00

SansRosa is a full go. Pharmaceutical companies don't usually talk to anyone at these stages and if so, dont want to give anything out at all except to scientists or physicians, otherwise they find other companies right on their heals filing for a new drug application even though SansRosa did all the work. This is so commonplace. My discussions have been completely the opposite and I have first hand reports from actual testers (4 testers who are on this group that have contacted me). 3 of them literally said this was a life changing topical for them with regards to permanent redness, telangiectasia, and flushing was greatly reduced. The fouth one had mixed results -- some positive and some that may indicated he experienced a little bit of rebound effect. But the first pre-clinical studies were so impressive that Mayo has taken the reigns from now on -- that means a heck of a lot in itself. The first series of larger clinical studies were a complete success with all expectations being met. As any company they wilil keep on tweaking the drug throught the first II phases. Notice, it you hit the Internet, there is almost zilch on this product -- that is the way they want it because until they file a New Drug Application or Trademark down the road, it is literally free game. Plus if David was speaking to Jim Fey, I believe he has never been so overwhelmed with phone calls and is now taking a general conservative policy regarding statements -- which is actually the proper way to go for right now until they have a hold of the drug themselves. Companies swipe drugs right from underneath smaller ones too many times. As for timing, if each trial is as successful as the first two this will go very fast becase it has already been approved for human use (huge plus) and been approved for one of the hardest organs to get approved, the eyes (huge plus showing its safety), plus with superfiicial vessels in the eye there was no rebound dilation. I also have first hand experience with this substance, as does Dr. Hein, and it makes perfect sense why and how this would work. This product will not take three to four years as David speculated himself -- cut that in half. They are already recruiting for larger multicenter studies which pushed them right up on the original time frame. Its all good!
Geoffrey ----------------------
-------------------------- Dr. Geoffrey Nase

Two Views of Sansrosa - D. Pascoe

2005-09-27T05:32:00.000-07:00

I contacted them recently because I was concerned about the hype andhope that has been pushed for sanrosa. They told me that it will beyears before they have anything interesting to say.When a product, that doesn't exist, is hyped so much, as sanrosa hasbeen, I hear warning bells.If we remember Zileuton was billed as `the biggest advance in rosaceafor 10 years'. Well recently research was published showing thatzileuton did very poorly for acne, so it is unlikely that it will getfuture work for rosacea.So lets temper how much hope we put in the next treatment around thecorner - they take a long time and setbacks are normal.

davidp.