Rosacea is a skin condition, characterized by redness and visible blood vessels in the face. It can flare up at any time and last weeks to months. It is most common in middle-aged women but can happen to anyone. Though there is no cure for rosacea, there are many ways to manage the condition and reduce redness in the face.
If you are experiencing rosacea you should consult your doctor, as treatment options can depend on the type of rosacea you are experiencing.
Topical and sometimes oral medications are recommended for mild and even moderate rosacea. Gentle cleansers such as sulfur-based washes and gentle moisturizers are always recommended. Laser and IPL treatments may be recommended for redness and blood vessels.
- SPF use – You should always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. For individuals living in colder climates, it is important to wear a scarf or ski-mask to protect your skin from the cold. Those living in warm climates should avoid getting overheated and minimize their exposure to the sun.
- Facial cleansers – Gentle cleansers such as EltaMD Foaming Facial Cleanser, Revision Gentle Cleansing Lotion or Cetaphil are recommended. Moisturizers can reduce flakiness and green based makeup can camouflage redness and improve appearance.
- Prescription Medication – Topical treatments are the first line of rosacea therapy. Antibiotics and acne drugs are sometimes prescribed. These antibiotics can come in a cream, gel, lotion, or pill form. Your dermatologist may prescribe a form of antibiotic to treat your rosacea because of its anti-inflammatory effects.
- Laser treatments, IPL – Laser treatments are used reduce the persistent redness or decrease the number of blood vessels that may be visible. Multiple treatments are usually necessary to achieve optimal results and may need to be repeated in the future to treat new vessels and redness
- Know Your Triggers – There are many rosacea triggers and they depend on each individual patient. The most common triggers include coffee, tea, spicy foods, alcohol, and sun exposure.
Lifestyle changes can also help manage rosacea. There are many rosacea triggers and they depend on the patient. The most common triggers include coffee, tea, spicy foods, alcohol, and sun exposure.
To learn more about rosacea, or to schedule your consultation with Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Weyer, please fill out the form on this page. You can call our Tucson location at 520-207-3100 or our Sierra Vista location at 520-458-1787. We look forward to seeing you soon!