Rosacea is a skin condition that makes the skin appear flushed and sunburned. It is a chronic condition that comes and goes throughout adulthood. Rosacea can progress from mild redness in the middle of the face to inflammation, pimples, and scars all over the face. While anyone can suffer from rosacea, women over 40 years of age with lighter skin tones are more prone to it.
The cause of rosacea is still unknown, but genetics, hormones, and sun exposure have proven to play a part. There are no treatments or medications that cure rosacea, but there are ways to manage the condition and keep it under control. Avoiding triggers such as spicy food or alcohol can help keep them under control. Following a proper skincare routine is very important. Applying sunscreen, using proper sun protection, taking lukewarm baths instead of hot ones, and using fragrance and alcohol-free products can ease rosacea.
Dermatologists can help by prescribing different treatments according to each case. Moderate and severe cases usually require a combination of oral and topical medications. Oral antibiotics from the tetracycline family can ease inflammation and reduce pimples. Azelaic acid is a topical cream with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-keratinizing properties. It can prevent and treat clogged pores, reduce inflammation, and decrease future breakouts. Topical antibiotics, including metronidazole, sulfur, and clindamycin, can also help reduce breakouts. If oral antibiotics fail, dermatologists may prescribe isotretinoin, also known as Accutane. This oral retinoid medication helps dry up the sebaceous oil glands to treat and prevent breakouts.
Other treatments may help with rosacea, such as lasers, light therapy, and Botox. Excel V is a laser treatment with two wavelengths that can target both the superficial and deep blood vessels. It requires at least three treatments for effective results. The technology clots and closes up the vessels that cause redness and inflammation. Patients may feel a bit uncomfortable after the treatment. Side effects can include swelling and bruising. No downtime is needed, and results will be noticeable about 6-8 weeks later. IPL or photo facial uses pulsed lights to target and treat damaged vessels.
Botox can help with reducing redness. It targets blood vessels, causing them to constrict, which reduces redness.
Lastly, skin peels can remove the surface layer of the skin. They can prevent the build-up of dead skin cells that clog pores leading to pimples while encouraging cell regeneration.
