Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause redness, swelling, and pimples on the face, and in some cases, it can also affect the eyes. Pure Dermatology & Cosmetic Center offers comprehensive treatment options for rosacea to help patients achieve clear, healthy-looking skin. Our experienced dermatologists use the latest techniques and technologies to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. Initially, it presents as facial redness, then gradually red pimples and pus-filled bumps will appear. Rosacea may appear on the nose and cheeks where small blood vessels become visible and the condition is called rhinophyma. Rosacea may also affect the eyes and cause conjunctivitis and/or blepharitis. Rosacea is more common in adults and is more common in women and fair-skinned people. It is also referred to as acne rosacea. It is not contagious and is a progressive disease.
Types of Rosacea
Rosacea, based on the characteristic appearance, is categorized into four types.
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea
- Papulopustular rosacea
- Phymatous rosacea
- Ocular rosacea
Causes of Rosacea
The exact cause is uncertain, but rosacea is often triggered by hot or spicy foods, alcoholic drinks, sun exposure, strenuous exercise, stress, as well as very hot or cold temperatures.
Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea
It most commonly affects the central part of the face – chin, cheeks, nose and central forehead. The most common symptom is frequent blushing or flushing (redness) of the skin. Small red pimples and pus-filled bumps known as papules or pustules may appear. Small blood vessels across the nose and cheeks are dilated. The area of the skin may be swollen, warm and red. Other symptoms may include burning sensation, fluid under the skin (edema), and dry appearance of the skin.
Diagnosis of Rosacea
Dermatologists diagnose the condition by reviewing the medical history thoroughly and by observation of the lesions appearing on the skin.
Treatment for Rosacea
Your dermatologist will suggest some practices to avoid exposure to triggers and prescribe treatment for the lesions.
Medications: Medicines used to treat rosacea include antibiotics. These may be applied topically or taken orally. Antibiotic cream or gel called metronidazole (a metro gel or metro cream) can be applied to the skin. Tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid (Azelex) are commonly prescribed topical medications. Isotretinoin (Accutane) may also be recommended in certain cases. Oral antibiotics tend to give faster results than topical ones and include tetracycline, minocycline, and erythromycin.
Laser treatment: Laser treatment is recommended in severe cases. Dilated blood vessels are treated with lasers. In this form of treatment, pulsed dye laser is used where powerful beams of light are bombarded on the lesion and blood vessels under the skin. The energy of the lasers produces heat that builds up in the blood vessels and eventually destroys the abnormal vessels.
Intense Pulsed Light: It is a new form of therapy which uses a non-laser light source. Cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery:- Surgical techniques may be used to correct the irregularities of the nose.
Preventive Tips for Rosacea
Practicing some healthy tips may help you prevent rosacea.
- Avoid spicy foods
- Avoid alcohol
- Do not rub or touch the skin
- Use moisturizers
- Avoid sun exposure
- Avoid temperature extremes of hot and cold
- Avoid stress
For more information on the specialized services offered by Pure Dermatology & Cosmetic Center for treatment of rosacea please click on the links below:
Whether you’re struggling with mild or severe rosacea, we can help you find relief and regain your confidence. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.