New information about the causes of eye irritation in rosacea and proper skin care were among the rosacea-related topics presented to dermatologists attending the recent 71st annual meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in Miami Beach.

Dr. Frank Powell, consulting dermatologist at Mater Misericordiae Hospital in Dublin, Ireland and member of the National Rosacea Society Medical Advisory Board, said that while a wide-ranging variety of potential factors may be involved in the development of rosacea, the key may lie in the hair follicles, where studies have long shown that microscopic mites known as Demodex appear in greater numbers in individuals with rosacea than in those without the condition.

He noted that the mites may also be a common thread between those with rosacea of the facial skin and those with eye irritation from ocular rosacea. The prevalence of ocular changes in rosacea patients is common, he said, and a potential cause may be the presence of Demodex, which can be found in dandruff on the eyelashes of individuals with rosacea.

Dr. Diane Berson, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell University, said some topical over-the-counter products may be helpful in calming the sensitive red skin of subtype 1 (erythematotelangiectatic) rosacea, and appropriate skin care is essential. This may include gentle cleansing, moisturizing, sun protection and cosmetics to camouflage redness.