Rosacea is a condition usually affects those with fair skin who are easily sunburned. Since that describes those of Irish, Scottish, or Northern European descent this condition has been called “the curse of the Celts”. But it can affect anyone.

What is rosacea? Commonly called adult acne, it is an embarrassing skin disease that affects mostly adults, though it is possible to have flare ups of it before adulthood. Contrary to what has been said, it is not caused by alcohol abuse. It is probably thought to be associated with heavy drinking because of a form of rosacea, called rhinophyma.

The most common form of rosacea is the erythematotelangiectatic type. It is characterized by small broken blood vessels which cause facial redness. Easily confused with farmer’s face, this type is supposedly aggravated by hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, and large hot meals.

The next most common form of rosacea is the papulopustular type. This type is characterized by facial redness caused by the eruption of bumps and pimples across the center of the face. Normally, antibiotics are prescribed to be taken by mouth and antibiotic creams are prescribed to be applied directly to the affected areas.

The third and rarest type of rosacea is rhinophyma. This type that most commonly affects men is characterized by swelling and deformity of the nose. I know for a fact that this type can affect women, for this is the type that I have been combating for most of my life.

There is one more type of rosacea that can appear all on its own or in conjunction with any of the other types. Ocular rosacea is characterized by a persistent burning or gritty feeling in the eyes. It can also appear as inflamed and swollen eyelids, bloodshot eyes, and eyelashes that fall out. This type can needs to be treated immediately, especially if there is light sensitivity along with a decrease in the ability to see well. In the most severe cases, there could be a loss of vision if not brought under control quickly.

Rosacea is devastating and tends to crush one's self-esteem, but I am winning the battle against this horrible condition.