Rosacea Causes

By Dr. Ananya Mandal, MDReviewed by Sally Robertson, B.Sc.

Rosacea is typically characterized by a redness and discoloration across the face, accompanied by persistent red spots and the appearance of prominent blood vessels. Over time, the skin may thicken and enlarge and eventually cause facial deformity.

Rosacea. Erythema and telangiectasia are seen over the cheeks, nasolabial area and nose. Inflammatory papules and pustules can be observed over the nose. The absence of comedos is a helpful tool to distinguish rosacea from acne.

Causes

The cause of rosacea is not yet clear but there are several hypotheses regarding the mechanisms of pathology which include:

Some research suggests that this bacteria produces a protein called bradykinin that can cause blood vessels to dilate, giving rise to rosacea symptoms.

• Abnormal vasculature

  Rosacea is typically characterized by flushing, redness and prominent blood vessels across the face. Sun exposure can lead to dilation of blood vessels and the release of inflammatory mediators that cause this redness. Sun can also damage the elasticity of the skin by degrading collagen.
• Genetics

  Although no particular gene that causes rosacea has yet been identified, the condition has been known to run in families, suggesting it may be an inherited condition.

• Parasites

  Demodex folliculorum is a type of tiny mite found on human skin that has been implicated as a cause of rosacea. They have been observed in higher numbers on the affected skin of rosacea patients than on healthy people's skin

• Helicobacter pylori bacteria
• Environmental toxins

  Caffeine-containing drinks, alcohol, spicy food, steroid creams and vitamin B supplements have been implicated in the causation of rosacea.

Triggers of rosacea

There are several triggers that may worsen rosacea symptoms and these include:

• Exposure to sunlight
• Stress
• Exposure to wind or cold weather
• Exposure to heat, humidity or hot baths
• Vigorous exercise
• Alcohol
• Caffeine
• Dairy products
• Spicy food
• Flu, fever or cold

Further Reading

• All Rosacea Content
• Rosacea - Facial Redness
• Rosacea Symptoms
• Rosacea Epidemiology
• Rosacea Subtypes