Signs of rosacea
- Flushing, red and sensitive skin can be triggered by factors such as sun exposure, heat, spicy foods, or alcohol
- Visible spider-like blood vessels can be seen on the cheeks and around the nose
- Red angry spots such as bumps and pimples that resemble acne may appear
- For more severe cases, there may be frequent burning, itching, and stinging of the face accompanying bloodshot and watery eyes
Cure for rosacea
Rosacea is not completely curable, but it is usually responsive to the correct treatment and can be very well-controlled. Sometimes, patients with ocular rosacea may experience redness and grittiness in their eyes, which can be managed with help from an eye doctor. Concerns about having a progressive condition leading to the development of rhinophyma, a rare condition causing bumpy and thickened skin around the nose, are uncommon and usually observed in men.
Effective treatment for rosacea
A simple, gentle cleansing and moisturising routine in combination with daily sunscreen should be the foundation of skincare for all rosacea patients. While steroid creams or tablets may offer quick relief, they can lead to rebound effects, worsening of symptoms, and skin thinning over time. In addition to a gentle skincare routine, evidence-based treatments we recommend include:
Topical creams - Some help vasoconstrict (shut down) the vessels at the skin's surface, reducing general redness. Other anti-inflammatory creams can be used to target red angry spots often seen in rosacea patients. These are prescription-only products that your Dermatologist can discuss further with you.
Oral medicines – Antibiotics from the tetracycline family are often used to treat rosacea with inflammatory red spots or pustules. Stronger medicines may be used if necessary. These are usually highly effective in controlling inflammatory lesions.
Lasers – Vascular lasers like VBEAM (Pulsed dye laser) targets the blood vessels in our skin. These are particularly effective for reducing redness and treating broken capillaries often seen on rosacea skin. Other gentler lasers such as the Excel V 532nm KTP laser can also be used to improve the skin redness, texture, and tone.
Injectables – Profhilo and Rejuran injections hydrate and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and improving the microenvironment of the skin, leading to a more stable skin condition.
Although rosacea is a harmless condition, its visible effects such as redness, spots, and flushing can be debilitating for patients. This can lead to lower self-esteem and confidence, impacting both social interactions and professional life. It is common for rosacea patients to feel lost and desperate, trying various treatments in hopes of finding relief. Seeing a trusted Dermatologist is crucial for effectively and safely managing this chronic skin condition.
For further information and advice, please contact us at 6262 0880 for an appointment.
