Redness, Rashes And Breakouts? Your Guide To The Four Types Of Rosacea

Most people envision bright red, blushing skin when they think about rosacea. However, redness and flushing are only part of the story, and not everyone with rosacea experiences these classic symptoms. In fact, rosacea has a wide variety of symptoms and can look different in different individuals, which can make it difficult to diagnose the condition properly. What's more, some people can experience multiple types of rosacea. They can go from one type to another or experience multiple types of rosacea at once. Following are brief descriptions of the four types of rosacea. 

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, or rosacea ETR, is classic rosacea. Identified by persistent facial redness, this type of rosacea can cause stinging, burning and swelling in the affected area. Sufferers may also notice broken blood vessels and a change in their skin texture. It may feel rough or appear as if it is scaling. 

Papulopustular Rosacea

Papulopustular rosacea can be difficult to diagnose because it is very similar to acne. Comprised of small, red pustules, this type of rosacea often appears to be an intense acne breakout. However, there are some differences. First, the blemishes associated with rosacea typically affect the center of the face more than other areas of the body. Second, the skin can become very sensitive with rosacea. You may also notice that you have raised or thickened patches of skin. 

Phymatous Rosacea

Phymatous rosacea, or thickening skin, can affect the appearance of your skin long term. This condition can affect many areas of your skin, but most commonly affects the nose. People with this type of rosacea often have skin with a bumpy texture. They can also develop thickened skin, which can make their nose appear large and irregularly shaped. The thickened nodules associated with this type of rosacea can also appear on other parts of the body. 

Ocular Rosacea

In some cases, rosacea can affect one or both eyes. When this occurs, it is called ocular rosacea. Signs of ocular rosacea include red, watery and bloodshot eyes. Irritation, stinging and burning are also common. Swelling can occur as can styes or eye infections. 

As you can see, there are multiple ways that rosacea can affect you. If you're experiencing breakouts or redness, talk to your dermatologist or call the Center Of Dermatology PC/Herschel E Stoller MD today. Without treatment, rosacea can continue to get worse, so it's important that you get to the bottom of your skin condition as soon as possible.