Q.  What do you advise for rosacea patients who are considering permanent (tattoo) makeup rather than tolerating the reactions of regular makeup?

A.  The ink in tattoos may be irritating to the sensitive skin of rosacea patients, and because tattoo makeup is permanent, any irritation caused by the ink may be present as long as the ink is present.  While tattoos may be removed, the process may be difficult and unsuccessful, and is costly and time-consuming as well.

Nonpermanent, nonirritating makeup is available for sensitive skin, and may be a safer and more convenient choice for rosacea sufferers.  Individuals with rosacea who are considering a tattoo should consult their dermatologist before proceeding.

Q.  Has research shown a relationship between rosacea and other vascular disorders or inflammatory conditions such as Raynaud disease or CREST syndrome?

A.  A review of medical literature does not reveal a connection, although rosacea is thought to have both vascular and inflammatory components. 

Raynaud disease, which is often an early sign of CREST syndrome (or scleroderma), is characterized by vasospasms that narrow vessels and temporarily limit blood supply to the skin.  Rosacea, on the other hand, is characterized by an increase in blood flow to the skin.