In Manhattan, most people who go to the dermatologist complain of acne. A significant amount of these people have rosacea - also coined adult acne. What is this and why do we see it so often?

Acne Rosacea, most often develops after puberty, usually during the 20s-30s, and can last through middle age. Acne Rosacea occurs mostly in women with fair skin, those who are often termed flushers and blushers. Acne Rosacea can begin with flushing or redness of the skin, acne lesions occurring in the central part of the face, or around the mouth and eyelids. When it first develops, rosacea may come and go on its own, but as it progresses, small blood vessels may appear in the reddened areas, especially on the nose, cheeks and upper lip. Because Rosacea develops over a long period of time, it may first be mistaken as a tendency to blush easily. The most advanced, rarest cases may involve an over-activity of the sebaceous glands accompanied by an enlargement of the nose, rhinophyma, classically called the WC Fields nose.

Things that aggravate Rosacea are sun exposure, hot weather, hot drinks (especially caffeinated ones), spicy foods, alcohol, overheating while exercising and stress.
Dr. Brad Katchen, founder of SkinCareLab, says that "the only dilemma is that the exact cause is not known. Usually, topical creams with anti-bacterial agents such as metronidazole or azelaic acid have been shown to work. Also, oral medications like tetracycline have been helpful. For the flushing, laser therapy has helped reduce redness. Successful management of rosacea depends on early diagnosis and treatments. If left untreated, rosacea will get worse, and be more of a challenge.”