Rosacea, in its most common form known as couperose, manifests as diffuse redness on the face, accompanied by the appearance of small red to purplish blood vessels on the skin's surface. Despite being a relatively unknown dermatosis to the general public, couperose affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, we will decode this disease and provide you with 5 facts to know about couperose.
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The five facts to know about rosacea.
Summary
- 1 - Rosacea is not contagious
- 2 - Rosacea also affects children
- 3 - Exposure to high temperatures is an exacerbating factor
- 4 - Rosacea can worsen
- 5 - Rosacea is not purely a physical problem
- Sources
Published February 14, 2024,
updated on April 8, 2024,
by
Pauline, Head of Scientific Communication
—
4 min read
1 - Rosacea is not contagious.
Rosacea is a stigmatizing dermatosis due to the intense redness it causes. It can be difficult to manage and may lead those who suffer from it to isolate themselves. Moreover, it is often mistakenly believed by others to be a contagious disease. It's important to know that rosacea cannot be transmitted horizontally, meaning from an affected person to a non-affected person.
However, studies suggest a link between genetics and the development of rosacea. Indeed, about 30% of people with rosacea have family history of this condition. The genes involved have not yet been identified, but it is assumed that there is a prevalence of certain receptors involved in inflammatory mechanisms in affected individuals. Thus, the only possible transmission of rosacea is vertical, that is, from a parent to their child.
2 - Rosacea also affects children.
Contrary to popular belief, children can also be affected by rosacea. Indeed, although this disease is predominantly observed in women aged 40 to 50, children are also susceptible. The skin manifestations are then the same as in adults, with redness and sensations of warmth, especially on the cheeks. In some cases, small bumps may also appear.
3 - Exposure to high temperatures is an exacerbating factor.
Several studies have shown that heat can exacerbate the symptoms of rosacea and promote flare-ups. Indeed, a rise in temperature contributes to the dilation of blood vessels and the characteristic inflammations of this form of rosacea. Heat also intensifies the irritations and hot flashes associated with the disease. Indeed, the TRVP1 receptors of the epidermis, involved in nociceptive mechanisms and the pathogenesis of rosacea, activate in response to a thermal stimulus. That's why it's recommended for people suffering from rosacea to avoid exposure to excessive heat.
4 - Rosacea can worsen.
Without treatment , rosacea can worsen over time with flare-ups of pimples (papulopustular rosacea). This form of rosacea typically results from the colonization of the sebaceous glands by the parasite Demodex, which triggers the secretion of TNF-α and interleukin-1 (IL-1), mediators of inflammation. In some cases, a thickening of the skin on the nose is also observed, leading to a rhinophyma (hypertrophic rosacea), a very severe form mainly due to the aesthetic discomfort it causes. Finally, rosacea can also complicate and affect the eyes, causing them to become dry and red.
It is crucial to consult a dermatologist in case of rosacea to obtain appropriate treatment and prevent the disease from progressing to more severe forms.
5 - Rosacea is not purely a physical problem.
Contrary to appearances, rosacea is not purely a physical concern but can also induce anxiety. Some people struggle greatly with their rosacea, and their self-confidence can be undermined by this condition. All areas of their life can be affected: family, work, relationships. That's why a tailored approach is so important, to minimize as much as possible the impact of rosacea on patients' quality of life. Moreover, psychological support may also be relevant for those who feel the need for it.
Sources
LÉAUTÉ-LABRÈZE C. & CHAMAILLARD M. Rosacea in children. Annals of Dermatology and Venereology (2007).
STEINHOFF M. & al. Recent advances in understanding and managing rosacea. F1000 Research (2018).
ALI F. & et al. Rosacea. British Journal of Hospital Medicine.(2021).
TAN J. & al. Rosacea: new concepts in classification and treatment. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2021).
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