Rosacea is a common skin disorder that is frequently confused with adult acne because it presents many of the same symptoms. According to the National Rosacea Society, an education, research and advocacy group, rosacea affects as many as 14 million Americans and is characterized by symptoms that include redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead; facial bumps or pimples; and small blood vessels that are visible on the face. The condition, in some cases, can cause problems with the eyes as well but, for the purposes of this article, we will focus on skin symptoms.

According to the National Institutes of Health, the cause of rosacea is not definitely known, but some medical researchers believe that some people are simply more prone to the dilation of blood vessels in the face, which may cause the redness and visible blood vessels associated with the disorder. Flare-ups often follow blushing or flushing of the face.

According to NIH, women going through menopause are especially likely to develop rosacea, but men can certainly contract the disorder while they age. Rosacea can also affect people of any skin color, although it seems to impact individuals of Caucasian descent more.

The National Rosacea Society has conducted research that shows rosacea can be just as socially stigmatizing as acne and can adversely affect a person’s self esteem. According to NRS’s research, almost 70 percent of rosacea patients said the condition had lowered their self-esteem, and 41 percent said it caused them to avoid social situations. Nearly a third had decided to skip work because of the condition.

The treatment of rosacea in some ways mirrors treatment for acne. Topical medications are typically applied and antibiotics are frequently prescribed. NRS points out that antibiotics probably work because of their anti-inflammatory properties, as opposed to their ability to kill and inhibit the growth of bacteria.

For people with severe rosacea, laser and light therapies may prove effective, and there are surgical options as well. People with rosacea can also help their condition by not using abrasive products on their faces and by trying to control the blushing or flushing of their faces. In this case, a little stress management may go a long way.