Rosacea Treatment Options

Rosacea is a chronic skin disorder that is characterized by facial redness, flushing, acne-like pimples, and dilated blood vessels. Rosacea can affect anyone but it is most common in middle aged women. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown but possible factors are genetics, sun exposure and a history of acne. The choice of therapies must be tailored to each patient’s symptoms and the severity of their condition.

We recommend avoiding triggers such as avoiding the sun, hot weather, wind, spicy food, alcohol, and overheating. Using gentle facial cleansing and moisturizing products are key since rosacea prone skin is more easily irritated.

What are the treatment options for rosacea?

• Topical medications to control mild rosacea pimples include topical metronidazole, sulfur, sodium sulfacetamide, and azelaic acid gel. . It may take 6-8 weeks to see results, but these medications can significantly help to reduce symptoms and offer good longer-term remission of symptoms.
• Low-dose oral antibiotics such as doxycycline and minocycline help to decrease inflammation and acne breakouts in moderate to severe cases.
• Demodex mites are naturally found on the skin but in rosacea they tend to overgrow. Treatment with topical preparations that target demodex mites can greatly decrease redness and inflammation in certain patients.
• Laser and light therapies can reduce blood vessels associated with rosacea. In more stubborn cases of redness and flushing laser and light therapies may be beneficial.

What are the treatments for ocular rosacea?

• Ocular involvement has been observed in more than 50% of patients with rosacea. Symptoms may include red, dry, irritated or itchy eyes. Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline may be recommended to help control symptoms. Ocular rosacea can affect the surface of your eye (cornea) and for this reason it may be necessary to consult with an ophthalmologist.

Rosacea is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. The goal of treatment is to control the symptoms and prevent further progression of the disease. With proper treatment, most people with rosacea can control their symptoms and live normal, active lives.

Schedule a consultation and we will work with you to find the best treatment to control your rosacea and achieve the healthy skin that you desire.