How To Treat Rosacea-induced Thickened Skin

By Author: Damien Alcock
Total Articles: 143
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However, she is susceptible to skin conditions, such as rosacea. This is why you must be knowledgeable about these skin conditions and how to treat them. 


This article provides information about rosacea and its treatment. 


What exactly is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects roughly 16 million individuals in the United States alone, causing redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the nose, cheeks, and forehead. In some cases, rosacea can contribute to an additional concern: skin thickening. 








Rhinophyma, also known as thickened epidermis, is a rare but distressing symptom of advanced rosacea. It is a common condition that can cause distress, physical changes in appearance, and in severe cases, vision problems.


The good news is that there are methods to treat and manage rosacea in order to restore the health and appearance of your skin. These will be discussed in detail, along with suggestions for preventing rosacea flare-ups in the first place. 
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Let's begin by taking a closer look at rosacea-induced thickened skin.


Understanding Skin Thickness in Rosacea
In rosacea, the thickening of the epidermis is called rhinophyma or phymatous rosacea. Men are typically affected more frequently than women. It is characterised by an enlargement of the sebaceous (oil) glands, which results in an irregular, uneven texture and a bulbous appearance, most notably on the nose. However, it may also manifest on the forehead, cheeks, jaw, and ears.


Despite the fact that the precise cause of rhinophyma is unknown, numerous factors contribute to its development. It is believed that genetic factors, hormonal fluctuations, chronic inflammation, and environmental stimuli such as sun damage play a role. Rhinophyma typically develops following years of untreated or inadequately managed rosacea.


Identification of Skin Thickness in Rosacea
Recognising the signs of rosacea-induced skin thickening is crucial for prompt intervention. Typical symptoms include:


Changes in Skin Texture: Affected skin can feel rough, irregular, and bumpy. Because of the enlargement of oil glands, it may resemble an orange rind.
Pore Enlargement: The pores on the affected epidermis may appear larger than normal.
Swelling and Discoloration: Thickening of the epidermis can cause swelling and persistent redness that resembles a sunburn.


If you suspect that your skin has become thicker due to rosacea, you must see a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis. The underlying cause of the thickening will be determined by a dermatologist's examination of your skin and medical history. They may perform a skin biopsy or order additional tests to exclude the possibility of other conditions.


Treatment Methods for Rosacea-Induced Skin Thickness
The severity of rhinophyma or phymatous rosacea determines the treatment strategy. 
Here are some options that your dermatologist may suggest:


Topical treatments
Antibiotic, retinoid, and corticosteroid-containing prescription creams and gels are frequently used to reduce inflammation, promote cell turnover, and enhance the appearance of thickened skin. In the early phases of rhinophyma, before the skin becomes significantly thickened, topical medications are most effective. Before using any new remedies, it is essential to consult a dermatologist because some topical medications may cause skin irritation and sensitivity.


Oral pharmaceuticals
In some cases, oral antibiotics such as isotretinoin may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and manage rosacea symptoms. It functions by inhibiting oil production and reducing inflammation, thereby aiding in the treatment of rhinophyma.


Laser treatment
Laser and light therapy is gaining popularity as rhinophyma treatments. Laser treatments, such as Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL), selectively target and reduce the size of blood vessels, thereby reducing rosacea-related erythema and inflammation. These therapies deliver concentrated light energy to the affected areas. In some instances, multiple treatments may be necessary to obtain optimal results, but laser therapy has been shown to significantly improve the appearance of rosacea-related thickened skin.


In the most severe instances of rhinophyma, surgical intervention may be required to remove the superfluous tissue and restore the nose's original shape. Various surgical procedures, including dermabrasion, electrosurgery, and cryosurgery, can accomplish this.
 
Surgical intervention carries risks and complications, so it should only be considered as a last resort.


Management Strategies for Rosacea and Thickened Skin
While several treatments are available for the thickened skin caused by rosacea, you can also manage your symptoms and prevent the development of rhinophyma by making several adjustments to your lifestyle. 


Here are some suggestions for reducing flare-ups:
Avoid solar exposure. The sun is a known trigger for rosacea and can exacerbate rhinophyma symptoms. It is essential to safeguard your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, covering your head and face with a hat or umbrella, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak sunlight hours.


Identify and avoid triggers Certain foods and beverages can cause rosacea flare-ups and worsen rhinophyma symptoms. Spicy foods, alcohol, heated beverages, citrus, and dairy products are common allergens. Identifying your trigger foods will allow you to avoid them and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups.


Practising excellent skin care can help alleviate rosacea symptoms and prevent the development of rhinophyma. Use mild, fragrance-free hygiene products to cleanse and moisturise your skin, and avoid using abrasive scrubs or exfoliants, which can irritate the skin further.


Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle by consuming a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, obtaining adequate rest, remaining hydrated, and managing stress. These factors can contribute to your overall health and improve your skin's condition.


Stress has been shown to exacerbate rosacea symptoms. Engage in stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, or pastimes that help you unwind. Adequate sleep and regular exercise can contribute to overall health and improve skin health.


Submit to routine medical examinations: Schedule regular appointments with your dermatologist to monitor the condition of your skin and discuss any changes in symptoms. This will ensure any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan are made promptly.


Conclusion
Rosacea-caused thickened skin can be a difficult condition to manage, but with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, significant improvement is possible. Numerous options exist to treat thickened skin and restore a smooth, radiant complexion, including medications, laser therapies, surgical interventions, and a mild skincare routine. 


By collaborating closely with a dermatologist and implementing a comprehensive treatment plan, you can overcome the difficulties of rosacea-caused thickened skin and attain healthier, more vibrant skin. Remember that early intervention and consistent care are essential for managing rosacea effectively and preventing the progression of thickened skin.


For all matters concerning skin cancer checks and treatments offered by Skin Clinic Robina, contact us today.