Rosacea is a chronic skin condition involving inflammation of the cheeks, nose, chin, forehead, or eyelids. It may appear as redness, prominent spider-like blood vessels, swelling, or skin eruptions similar to acne.

Although the cause of rosacea is unknown, you are more likely to develop this harmless skin condition if:

• You are fair skinned.
• You blush easily.
• You are a woman. However, men are usually more severely affected.
• You are between the ages of 30 and 50.

Rosacea involves enlargement of the blood vessels just under the skin and may be associated with other skin disorders (acne vulgaris, seborrhea) or eye disorders (blepharitis, keratitis).

• Redness of the face in discrete areas or covering the entire face
• A tendency to flush or blush easily
• Increased vascularity (spider-like blood vessels called telangiectasia) of the face
• A red, bulbous nose
• Acne-like skin eruptions (may ooze or crust)
• A burning or stinging sensation of the face
• Irritated, bloodshot, watery eyes

Your physician can usually diagnose rosacea with a thorough medical history and physical exam.