PtEd – ACNE ROSACEA

ACNE ROSACEA

PROBLEM

Acne rosacea is a skin condition that affects primarily the nose and face, causing redness, flushing, pimples, and bumps. The blood vessels may be more prominent on the face, causing the skin to appear reddened.

CAUSE

The cause is not known. It is thought to be caused by the blood vessels in the face being too active, causing flushing and redness of the skin.

PREVENTION/CARE

A.Avoid rubbing or massaging the face, which can irritate the skin.

B.Avoid alcoholic beverages.

C.Avoid using harsh soaps/creams on the face, including cosmetics that irritate the skin.

D.Wash face with a mild soap, such as Cetaphil or Purpose soap, daily. Other cleansers suggested are a sulfa-based cleanser (Rosanil) or benzoyl peroxide cleanser daily.

E.Protect the skin when outdoors, wearing protective clothing, hats, and so on, to shield the face. Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) 30 or a zinc-based ointment, such as zinc oxide, on the skin for protection.

F.You may be prescribed an antibiotic by mouth or an antibiotic cream/gel to place on the skin. Use medications as prescribed by your provider.

G.Avoid using steroid creams on your face unless prescribed by your provider.

H.If your skin condition begins to affect your eyes, you need to notify your provider immediately. Do not apply any medications or creams to your eyes that have not been prescribed by your provider.

TREATMENT PLAN

A.Use antibiotics/medications as prescribed by your provider.

B.Wash face with mild cleanser daily.

Activity: As tolerated. No limitations in physical activity.

Diet:

A.Drink plenty of fluids daily.

B.Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Medications:

You Have Been Prescribed: ___________________________________________________________

You Need to Take: ___________________________________________________________

You Need to Notify the Office If:

A.You have a reaction to any of the medications or cleansers prescribed.

B.Rash appears on your eyes or other new places.

C.Symptoms worsen or new signs or symptoms present before your next follow-up appointment.

D.Other: ___________________________________________________________

Phone: ____________________________

RESOURCE

www.rosacea.org

PATIENT TEACHING GUIDE