Cause of Rosacea

To-date, the underlying origin or cause of rosacea remain a mystery and have yet to be scientifically proven. While a host of scientific studies are under way, the outcome so far has been a number of unsubstantiated theories. With continued rosacea research efforts, the hope is that findings will lead to improvements in the skin disorders treatments, management, and potential cure or prevention. 

A number of researchers believe that rosacea may be a vascular disorder due to its association with blushing/flushing, facial redness and visible blood vessels. Another theory is that flushing may involve the nervous system because of the increased level of exacerbations when rosacea patients are under emotional stress. 

Another theory regarding rosacea facial swelling is that an increased blood flow during flushing contributes to an increase in fluids in the tissue, which builds up faster than the lymphatic system can expel it. It is thought that the swelling, in turn, may contribute to thickening of the skin as the tissue accumulates. 

A non-vascular theory revolves around the presence of a microscopic mite, called Demodex folliculorum. This mite has been theorized as a possible contributor to the development of rosacea. This tiny mite is a common inhabitant on human skin. Its plays a major role in ridding the body of dead cells by consuming the cast-off cells. Furthermore, this mite has been found on rosacea patients in quantities far greater than non-rosacea individuals. That said, it remains unclear as to whether this mite is a cause or a result of rosacea. 

Research into the cause of rosacea continues to bring forth new and diverse theories and information regarding this skin condition. Hopefully, in the not too distant future, a cure and preventive procedure will be discovered. Until that day, the best approach to managing rosacea will be proactive treatments based on both pharmaceutical and natural origins.