What causes Rosacea?
What causes Rosacea?
Because it is so common, rosacea is considered by many to be a ‘condition’ rather than a disease. Although the exact causal mechanism of rosacea is unknown, several factors probably play an important role.
Those with a ‘fair’ or northern European background are more pre-disposed to rosacea, although it has been reported in patients of any background.
Patients with rosacea often report that they ‘flush’ or ‘blush’ easily with any stress or emotional upset.
They may ‘turn red’ easily with a glass of alcohol, or with hot or spicy food.
Even warm or caffeinated beverages may produce a flare.
But the single biggest trigger for most patients is the sun. Rosacea patients often flare in the spring and early summer; some patients notice that their skin ‘hardens’ or becomes less susceptible as the summer wears on. Nevertheless, sun protection is an important preventive measure for patients with rosacea.