Papulopustular Rosacea Symptoms
When most people think of rosacea, they picture symptoms of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR). In many cases, papulopustular rosacea symptoms share similarities with what you may think of as standard rosacea symptoms, such as flushed skin, red inflamed bumps, a burning or stinging sensation on the skin, and visible blood vessels. Along with these symptoms, papulopustular rosacea also produces pus-filled papules or pustules. These lesions typically develop on the forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose, though they may also occur elsewhere, such as the scalp, neck, or chest.
- Persistent redness
- Inflammation
- Whiteheads
- Sensitive skin
- Rough, dry skin
- Thickening of skin
- Burning or stinging
- Flushed or reddened skin
- Inflamed red bumps and pustules
- Pus-filled whiteheads
- Visible blood vessels
- Skin that feels hot to the touch
- Itchiness
- Frequent breakouts
- Irregular, bumpy-textured skin
What Causes Papulopustular Rosacea?
The exact papulopustular rosacea causes are unknown. This is the case with other forms of rosacea, too–the underlying cause is not yet known. However, some factors may contribute to rosacea, including genetics, environment, skin mites, poor gut health, inflammation, and an imbalance of the skin microbiome. Some researchers believe that the bacteria carried by skin mites may contribute to rosacea, meaning an imbalance of harmful and beneficial bacteria in the skin microbiome may account for many cases of rosacea. While the causes of papulopustular rosacea are unknown, several rosacea triggers can result in flare-ups.
Papulopustular Rosacea Triggers
Papulopustular rosacea triggers vary from person to person. However, there are some common trends dermatologists and researchers have observed among individuals diagnosed with rosacea and, more specifically, papulopustular rosacea. Common papulopustular rosacea triggers include emotional stress and anxiety, spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, extreme heat, extreme cold, strong winds, ultraviolet (UV) rays (sunlight), physical exertion, certain medications and supplements, alcohol, certain hair products, having the intestinal bacteria H. pylori, the presence of a skin mite called demodex and the bacterium it carries, Bacillus oleronius, and foods high in histamines.
Even non-spicy foods, such as yogurt, liver, and sour cream, can act as rosacea triggers in some people. Your dermatologist can help you identify your triggers and find effective ways to avoid them, reducing your rosacea flare-ups.
How Is Papulopustular Rosacea Diagnosed?
In terms of diagnosing rosacea, no specific test is used to diagnose this condition. Instead, your dermatologist relies on the history of your symptoms and a thorough examination of your skin. Your doctor may recommend certain tests to rule out other conditions which may present with similar symptoms, such as psoriasis or acne. For more information about papulopustular rosacea diagnostic methods and to schedule an appointment with a dermatologist, contact Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery.
How Is Papulopustular Rosacea Treated?
At any point in your life, you should feel empowered to consult a dermatologist about treating your papulopustular rosacea. However, it's particularly important if your feel like your symptoms is becoming worse or that your flare-ups are regular and severe. Rosacea is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that requires careful management. There is no way to cure papulopustular rosacea. However, there are treatments available that can help keep the condition under control and alleviate symptoms. Contact us today to learn about available treatments and to get started finding the right papulopustular rosacea treatment for you.
Prescription Medications
Certain prescription medications may help reduce the appearance and frequency of rosacea flare-ups and outbreaks. Some medications your provider may prescribe include azelaic acid or metronidazole, either in the form of a gel or a cream. Alternatively, they may prescribe minocycline or doxycycline, both of which are oral antibiotics. It's important that patients do not attempt to treat their rosacea breakouts with acne spot treatments, such as those with salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, as they are far too aggressive for rosacea-prone skin.
Skincare For Rosacea
The majority of rosacea sufferers report sun exposure as their most significant rosacea trigger. To help protect your skin against powerful UV rays, remain in the shade when possible and avoid the harshest hours of sunlight during the day (10 A.M. to 2 P.M.) Apply a dermatologist-recommended, rosacea-friendly, broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and reapply it regularly throughout the day. As part of your customized, comprehensive treatment plan, your dermatologist will recommend a rosacea-friendly skincare regimen to help facilitate healthy, beautiful skin while helping treat common rosacea signs and symptoms. Contact us for papulopustular rosacea skin care recommendations for your skin.
How To Avoid Rosacea Triggers
When you first attempt to identify your triggers, you should be patient and kind to yourself. Your dermatologist can assist you in these efforts, helping you to narrow down your personal rosacea triggers. Rosacea triggers can increase the blood flow to the surface of your skin, worsening your papulopustular rosacea symptoms. This is why avoiding the following triggers may help improve the appearance of your skin and reduce redness and rosacea subtype 2 flare-ups. Once you have successfully identified your personal triggers, avoiding them will likely significantly improve your rosacea symptoms and reduce your flare-ups.
