Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in the face. It can progress over time if left untreated. There is no permanent cure for rosacea but certain treatments can help manage symptoms. This article explores various treatment options available for rosacea.
Causes of Rosacea
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown but certain triggers are known to worsen symptoms like sun exposure, hot beverages, spicy foods and stress. Rosacea tends to run in families indicating a genetic link. It occurs most often in people with fair skin, usually starting after age 30. The condition is thought to involve increased sensitivity of the capillaries in the skin.
Topical Treatments
Topical medications applied directly to the affected areas are usually the first line of treatment. These include:
- Azelaic acid (Azelex, Finacea): This helps reduce redness and spots. It may cause mild stinging or burning.
- Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs): Chemical peels containing AHAs like glycolic acid or lactic acid help exfoliate skin and reduce redness. They should be used 2-3 times a week initially.
- Metronidazole (Metrogel, Metrocream, Noritate): This antibiotic gel is very effective in reducing redness and bumps. It requires regular use for at least 3 months to see benefits.
- Ivermectin (Soolantra): A relatively new treatment, this topical cream targets a specific parasite thought to worsen rosacea. It has shown good efficacy with minimal side effects.
Oral Antibiotics
For moderate to severe Rosacea Treatment , oral antibiotics are often prescribed for 3 to 6 months. Common choices include doxycycline, tetracycline and erythromycin which help control inflammation. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and increased sun sensitivity. Laboratory tests need to be done periodically to check for any issues.
Laser and Light Therapies
Certain laser and light therapies can treat visible blood vessels, redness and red bumps associated with rosacea. Several treatments spaced 4-6 weeks apart may be required. Commonly used options are:
- Pulsed dye laser (PDL): This laser targets excessive blood vessels very effectively with minimal side effects or downtime.
- Intense pulsed light (IPL): IPL delivers broad spectrum light to damage blood vessels and decrease redness.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): A light activated gel is applied which produces reactive oxygen when activated by specific wavelengths of light. This disrupts targeted blood vessels.
Procedural Therapies
For stubborn cases, dermatological procedures may provide longer term control of symptoms:
- Cryotherapy: Liquid nitrogen spray or small probe is used to freeze papules and pustules. It requires multiple treatments for best results.
- Chemabrasion: A chemical solution is applied to enhance natural exfoliation and reduce lesions. More aggressive than chemical peels.
- Laser resurfacing: CO2 or erbium laser is used to vaporize the outer layers of skin and stimulate new collagen formation. Risk of scarring and extended downtime. Only for severe, nodular subtype.
Managing Triggers and Flares
Avoiding known triggers plays a huge supportive role with any rosacea treatment. Stress management techniques, modest sun protection, reducing spicy foods and limiting alcohol consumption helps control flares. Leading a healthy lifestyle also boosts treatment response. Medical help must be sought if symptoms worsen or change with time. With effective long term management, rosacea need not be completely debilitating
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Also known as acne Rosacea, Rosacea is a skin condition that leads to permanent red spots on different areas of the body.
This chronic skin disorder leads to bumps and redness on the face, eyes, neck, ears, back, chest, scalp, etc.
The disease is non contagious affecting adults particularly in the US.
More often people with fair skin complexion are targeted, especially in the Irish and Scottish ancestry.The redness caused by the disease is often recognized more severe by flushing.
This causes the small blood vessels on the face to grow permanently and become extra visible via the skin as tiny red lines.
Since the disease is incurable, rosacea treatment is still available that can control the related signs and symptoms.
