This type of acne is very easily mistaken for other forms because pimples can also occur.  However, it can last for many years and is rarely reversible.

Rosacea’s exact cause is not yet known, but it is found more so in those who blush a lot.  In fact, it is one of the few acne diseases that can be triggered by fear, stress, embarrassment and anxiety.  Even climatic changes and exposure to the sun can trigger an outbreak or worsen an existing one.  However, dermatologists have suspected that a simple mite that can be found in a hair follicle, vasolidilators and the heliobacter pylori bacterium may contribute to acne rosacea.

The first step in acne rosacea treatment is understanding the symptoms, which include:

•    Skin inflammation
•    Early appearance and disappearance of the blushing look
•    A change in skin color
•    Swollen capillaries visible through the skin
•    Pimples

The second step in acne rosacea treatment is understanding the disfiguring affects the disease can have on the face.  The nose can get rhinophyma, where by the nose swells up and the cheeks become puffy.  This is more common in men, but can be remedied with surgery.  The eyes can also be affected with conjunctivitis (gritty and burning eyes), which if left untreated can result in damaged eyesight (rosacea keratitis).
The third step is the actual acne rosacea treatment.  As rosacea cannot be cured, dermatologists recommend avoiding regular countertop acne preparations found in most drugstores due to their irritating affect.  Instead tetracycline pills and skin antibiotic creams are used, including metronidazole, clindamycin and erythromycin. 

Dermatologists also prescribe cortisone creams, tretinoin pills, and isotrtoin pills.  When mites are suspected as a possible cause of acne rosacea, permethrin cream is recommended.

As part of an acne rosacea treatment, doctors encourage patients to avoid foods and drinks that may bring on blushing such as spiced foods, and alcoholic and hot drinks.  Other things to avoid include extreme temperature changes and direct exposure to sunlight during outbreaks.

The final step in acne rosacea treatment is using a proper skin care regime.  Sufferers should avoid cosmetics, some hair sprays, harsh moisturizers, and any skin care products, including sunscreens that contain alcohol.  However, the use of sunscreen at SPF 15 and above is essential when going outside at any time of the year.