Rosacea is a common skin condition mainly affecting Caucasian women over the age of 30, but can be found in people of any race, ethnicity, age, or sex. Rosacea is characterized by redness and inflammation in the face—often the forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose. Myths, depictions of pop culture, and other variables have caused rosacea to be misunderstood. To set the record straight, our team at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta is debunking five common myths to help you better understand this chronic skin condition.

• Myth: Rosacea is caused by poor hygiene.

Rosacea is a vascular and inflammatory condition. It is believed to come from a combination of genetics and certain environmental triggers, and it is completely unrelated to hygiene. Actually, washing your face too often can worsen symptoms because of harsh soaps and scrubbing.

• Myth: Rosacea is contagious.

Rosacea is not infectious. It is a condition that affects the blood vessels under the skin, rather than being caused by bacteria or anything else on the surface of the skin, so it cannot be spread from person to person. While we sometimes use antibiotics to treat rosacea, this is because they help reduce the inflammation, not because bacteria is associated with rosacea.

• Myth: Rosacea is caused by beverages like caffeine and alcohol.

While rosacea symptoms are sometimes triggered by beverages such as hot coffee and alcohol, they are not the direct cause. In people with rosacea, research shows that it may be the heat associated with coffee that triggers symptoms rather than the drink itself. Alcohol is similar; it doesn’t cause rosacea, but if you already have rosacea, alcohol may cause a flare-up.

• Myth: Rosacea is the same from person to person.

There are actually four common types of rosacea—vascular, inflammatory, late, and ocular. Each type has its own defining characteristics and triggers, and understanding the details of your specific rosacea can help you treat it more effectively. Consult with one of our experiences dermatology providers to better understand your specific type of rosacea so that they can recommend the best treatments to treat it and provide you with ways you can take the proper measure to control it.

• Myth: Rosacea cannot be prevented or controlled.

Although it may not be possible to stop rosacea flare-ups 100%, with proper trigger monitoring, treatments, and other factors, you can greatly reduce and manage your flare-ups. The most important precaution you should take is consulting with our board-certified dermatologists our physician assistants at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta to find out what treatment options are best for you. We can help you properly diagnose your condition, monitor your symptoms, find your triggers, and prescribe preventative measures.

Just because the exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, this doesn’t mean you have to settle with its side effects. To set up a skin consultation with us, feel free to contact our dermatology office at 404.256.4457 and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.