Understanding Rosacea
Rosacea is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects many people. It typically presents as pimples on the face but it can also appear as transient or persistent facial redness. Some people may even develop skin changes such as skin thickening in the affected areas. This condition can also involve the eyes and this is referred to as ocular rosacea. Typically skin involvement affects the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. If you are experiencing facial redness, burning or stinging, swelling, or dryness to the face, you may have rosacea.
Treatment Options
There are many treatment options available for rosacea including prescription creams and oral antibiotics. Laser therapy may be an option for someone who is experiencing primarily redness to the face. Please schedule a consultation with one of our dermatology providers to discuss best treatment options for you and your skin.
For someone who has not responded well to prior treatment, neurotoxins like Botox can be used off label to treat refractory flushing or other rosacea symptoms. Treatment areas include the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. Effects of cosmetic neurotoxins include reduction in oil gland production, decreased inflammatory lesion count, reduced overall flushing in treatment areas and smaller pore size. Neurotoxins lasts 3 months and repeat treatment would be required to maintain desired results.
Skin care considerations for someone with a history of rosacea:
- Use gentle products and practice frequent skin moisturizing
- Avoid harsh mechanical scrubbing
- Avoid topical products that may irritate the skin, such as toners, astringents, and chemical exfoliating agents
- Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Avoid mid-day sun or wear sun-protective clothing, wide brim hats.
- Green tinted foundation can help camouflage facial redness
Written by Anna Snowden, PA-C