Increased medical understanding has led to significant advances in the control of rosacea, allowing many of those who suffer from this chronic red-faced disorder to live free of its conspicuous and embarrassing symptoms for the first time. April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month by the National Rosacea Society (NRS) to educate the public on this potentially serious condition estimated to affect more than 16 million Americans, and to urge those with the warning signs to see a dermatologist for diagnosis and appropriate therapy.

Editor’s note: It’s important to note that these findings only suggest a potential association. To determine any cause and effect relationship, further study is required.

A recent Chinese study evaluating the potential relationship between rosacea and diet found that frequent consumption of fatty foods and tea may be associated with the development of rosacea symptoms, while frequent dairy consumption appeared to be negatively correlated with the disorder. The findings may be useful in developing dietary guidelines for rosacea sufferers, the researchers said. 

The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 3.5 million Americans were diagnosed with skin cancer in 2019, making this risk associated with sun exposure a very compelling reason for protecting yourself from the sun. Yet for rosacea patients there is even more reason for sun protection, as sun exposure is one of the most common triggers for rosacea flare-ups.

A recent survey by the NRS found that the majority of rosacea patients have insurance coverage for common treat- ments they need, but revealed that out-of- pocket cost is still a factor for most indi- viduals when they make decisions about purchasing prescribed therapies.

Millions of viewers worldwide tune in to the Academy Awards broadcast every year, and from the moment actors meet photographers on the red carpet, a spotlight shines on them, showing off their glamorous appearance — and highlighting any flaws or blemishes as well. Oscar winner Renée Zellweger is reported to suffer from rosacea, and recently a number of other Hollywood actresses have candidly shared their own difficulties dealing with the condition and how it affects their appearance — and ultimately, their career.

Every person is host to a natural mix of bacteria, fungi and viruses — they are normal inhabitants of the skin, known as the skin microbiome. But the makeup of that community may be very different in those with rosacea, according to the results of a recent NRS-funded study comparing the bacteria found on the faces of rosacea patients and people without the condition.