Cynthia Nixon Raises Awareness about Rosacea Treatments

Actress Cynthia Nixon has revealed that she was diagnosed with the chronic skin condition rosacea four years ago. Now she’s encouraging others with the condition to seek treatment.
She has collaborated with the National Rosacea Society for an online public service announcement to help educate patients on the facts about rosacea.

“It was a relief to find out from my dermatologist what was going on with my skin, especially because rosacea can get worse if it’s not treated,” says Nixon, who for years thought her blemishes were acne.
It’s not uncommon for rosacea to go undiagnosed. Symptoms of this vascular condition include:

• Red skin, like a sunburn
• Red bumps or blemishes on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or chin
• Visible small red blood vessels
• Flushed skin after taking a hot shower, exercising, or drinking alcohol
• Irritated or bloodshot eyes

Because rosacea symptoms can resemble other skin problems, such as acne or eczema, it can be difficult to recognize.
“Over 16 million Americans have rosacea, but 78 percent of Americans have no knowledge of this condition, including how to recognize it and what to do about it,” says Sam Huff, Executive Director of the National Rosacea Society. “It’s important to spread awareness because in addition to the physical symptoms, rosacea can cause anxiety, self-consciousness and embarrassment among sufferers.”

Rosacea Treatments

While there is no cure for rosacea, your dermatologist can treat the condition. Treatments that can help control symptoms include topical medication, oral medication, and laser treatments, such as Photofacial, which utilizes IPL or intense pulsed light.
Patients can also try to avoid things that may trigger rosacea; common triggers include exposure to the sun, exercise, alcohol, and hot and cold weather. Using sunscreen and gentle skin care products can also help.
“My dermatologist told me that my harsh, do-it-yourself skin care routine was actually contributing to my rosacea flare-ups, and she helped me develop a regimen that worked for me,” says Nixon.
To view more of Nixon’s rosacea videos, visit www.rosaceafacts.com.