Rosacea in Cambridge

Rosacea is a common but little-known disorder of the facial skin that affects millions of Canadians - and most of them don't know it. In fact, while rosacea is becoming increasingly widespread as the populous baby boom generation enters the most susceptible ages, a Gallup survey found that a huge percent of Canadians have no knowledge of this condition, including how to recognize it and what to do about it.

Rosacea cannot be cured, but it can be controlled. Because of its red-faced, acne-like effects on personal appearance, however, it can cause significant psychological, social and occupational problems if left untreated.

While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure, today medical help is available that can control the signs and symptoms of this potentially life-disruptive disorder. Any one of the following warning signs is a signal to see a dermatologist or other knowledgeable physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment before the signs and symptoms become increasingly severe:

  • Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead
  • Small visible blood vessels on the face
  • Bumps or pimples on the face
  • Watery or irritated eyes

About 50% of those with rosacea suffer eye involvement, including such conditions as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, dry gritty eyes, and recurrent sties. Nose enlargement (rhinophyma) is uncommon but mostly seen in men. It is only very rarely seen in women.

Key Features:
  • Facial symptoms - burning and stinging
  • Facial flushing, blushing evolving to persistant redness
  • Inflammatory papules, pustules (pimples)
  • Cheeks are not warm
  • Telangectasiae, (blood vessel lines)
  • Could Cause Eye Problems
  • Soft tissue hypertrophy or skin thickening (rhinophyma)
Who Gets Rosacea?

This condition is most commonly seen in those who have fair skin.

Where Does Rosacea Occur on the Skin?

You will usually see rosacea around the central area of your face. It may occasionally be isolated to one patch.

When Does it Usually Start?

Onset usually occurs between 20-40 years of age.

How Does Rosacea Affect Us?
  • Rosacea can be very embarrassing, flushing can be a source of social discomfort
  • Many may feel that they are perceived as heavy drinkers
  • Eyes can be gritty and uncomfortable
  • Older men are frequently ashamed if their nose becomes bigger and knobbly

Before & After Photos

By law doctors are not allowed to put in pre and post pictures. You may research the various treatments yourself or come in to the clinic to speak to the doctor about them.