Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects an estimated 5% of the world’s population, that often lead to persistent redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes acne-like bumps on the face. While it can be a source of frustration and self-consciousness, effective management is possible with the right treatment approach. Dr. Stephanie Ho, a leading expert in dermatology, specialises in offering personalised and long term solutions for rosacea. With a deep understanding of both the symptoms and underlying causes of the condition, Dr. Ho employs advanced medical treatments tailored to each patient's unique needs, targeting not only the visible signs but also the root factors that contribute to rosacea. Her goal is to help patients achieve clearer, healthier skin and to regain confidence in their appearance.
Why Choose Dr. Stephanie Ho for Rosacea Treatment?
Experienced Dermatologist
Dr. Stephanie Ho has over 25 years of medical of experience, and is a leading expert in her field in diagnosing and treating rosacea, helping countless patients find relief from this often frustrating skin condition. With a focus on the latest research and evidence-based treatments, she understands the complexities of rosacea and how to address it in a way that’s both effective and compassionate.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Rosacea is different for everyone, so Dr. Ho takes the time to create a treatment plan that's as unique as you are. Whether you’re dealing with redness, bumps, or other symptoms, she will customise a solution that fits your skin type, rosacea subtype, and lifestyle to ensure the best possible outcome.
Comprehensive Approach
Dr. Ho doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. She uses a combination of treatments—including topical creams, oral medications, laser therapies, hydrating and calming injectables and tailored lifestyle advice—to not only tackle the visible symptoms but also address the root causes of rosacea. Her goal is to help you manage flare-ups and get your skin back to its healthiest state.
Holistic Care
What sets Dr. Ho apart is her holistic approach to rosacea care. She understands that managing rosacea isn’t just about treating flare-ups—it’s about minimising triggers, understanding your skin’s needs, and providing long-term strategies for maintaining healthy, clear skin. She takes the time to guide you on how to manage triggers in your everyday life so you can maintain lasting results.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common yet often misunderstood chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It causes redness, swelling, and visible blood vessels, and can sometimes lead to acne-like bumps or thickened skin. While the exact cause of rosacea isn’t fully understood, it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and vascular factors that cause the skin to become inflamed and sensitive. Though rosacea is typically most noticeable on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin, it can affect anyone, regardless of skin tone or age, and can vary in severity.
There are four main subtypes of rosacea, each presenting unique symptoms:
- Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea
This is the most common subtype, characterised by persistent redness and visible blood vessels. The skin may appear flushed or "sunburned," and patients often experience frequent hot flashes or skin irritation. - Papulopustular Rosacea
Often mistaken for acne, this subtype involves red bumps and pimples on the skin. It can cause inflammation and resemble adult acne, but without the blackheads or whiteheads typical of acne. - Phymatous Rosacea
Phymatous rosacea is less common but can lead to thickening of the skin, particularly around the nose. The affected skin may become bumpy and swollen, causing noticeable changes in facial features, most often in men. - Ocular Rosacea
This form affects the eyes, leading to irritation, redness, dryness, and swelling of the eyelids. It can cause symptoms like a gritty or burning sensation in the eyes, sensitivity to light, and in some cases, vision problems if left untreated.
While rosacea is a lifelong condition, it can worsen over time if left untreated, leading to more severe symptoms and greater difficulty in managing the condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for controlling rosacea and preventing it from advancing.
Types of Rosacea Treatments Available at Stephanie Ho Dermatology
At Stephanie Ho Dermatology, we offer a variety of effective treatments to help manage rosacea and improve the appearance of your skin. Dr. Ho combines advanced medical therapies with personalised care to create a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs.
Topical Medications
For many rosacea patients, topical medications provide relief from the redness, inflammation, and bumps commonly associated with the condition. Dr. Ho often prescribes medicated creams and gels, such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, and ivermectin. These treatments are designed to reduce irritation, calm inflammation, and control breakouts.
Metronidazole and azelaic acid have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce redness and bumps, while ivermectin works to target the underlying causes of skin irritation and inflammation. These topical treatments are easy to incorporate into a daily skincare routine and can be used long-term for ongoing rosacea management.
Oral Medications
For more severe or persistent cases of rosacea, oral medications may be required. Dr. Ho may prescribe oral antibiotics like doxycycline to reduce inflammation and help clear up papules and pustules. Doxycycline works by controlling the skin’s inflammatory response, offering relief for patients who experience more widespread or persistent flare-ups. In certain cases, isotretinoin may be prescribed, especially when other treatments haven’t been effective. While it’s typically used for severe acne, isotretinoin can help manage rosacea by reducing the overactivity of the skin’s sebaceous glands and calming inflammation.
Laser and Light-Based Therapy
Laser treatments such as VBEAM laser are highly effective for targeting visible blood vessels and persistent redness which are the two common signs of rosacea. These non-invasive treatments use light energy to reduce redness and stimulate collagen production, helping to improve skin texture and tone. Laser therapycan significantly diminish the appearance of broken capillaries and the flushed, uneven skin tone associated with rosacea. These procedures are quick, require little downtime, and offer long-lasting results, making them an excellent option for those seeking a non-invasive solution to their rosacea symptoms.
Injectables
Injectable treatments for rosacea aim to reduce redness, improve hydration, and strengthen the skin barrier. Botulinum toxin minimizes flushing by reducing vascular activity, while hyaluronic acid fillers such as Profhilo deeply hydrate the skin and improve elasticity. Rejuran, derived from salmon DNA polynucleotides, promotes skin repair, reduces inflammation, and enhances barrier function. Each treatment offers unique benefits, and a personalized approach, often combining therapies, is essential for optimal rosacea management.
Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications
Lifestyle and environmental factors can play a significant role in triggering rosacea flare-ups. Dr. Ho works closely with her patients to help identify and avoid common triggers such as sun and heat exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress. By adjusting daily habits and making mindful choices, patients can help reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups.
In addition to managing triggers, Dr. Ho provides advice on skincare routines that focus on calming and protecting sensitive skin, as well as guidance on sun protection to prevent UV-related flare-ups. These lifestyle modifications can be crucial in controlling rosacea and maintaining healthy skin over the long term.
Skin Care Recommendations
Rosacea-prone skin requires special care, and Dr. Ho offers personalised recommendations for gentle skin care products that won’t irritate sensitive skin. She emphasises the importance of using soothing, non-comedogenic products and recommends skincare routines that focus on hydration, protection, and calming irritation. Sunscreen is a key component of Dr. Ho’s advice, as it’s essential for preventing flare-ups triggered by sun exposure. Dr. Ho also advises against harsh skincare ingredients, such as alcohol or strong exfoliants, that can worsen rosacea symptoms. By following these guidelines, patients can maintain healthy, balanced skin while managing their rosacea effectively.
Benefits of Rosacea Treatment with Dr. Stephanie Ho
Choosing Dr. Stephanie Ho for your rosacea treatment ensures a comprehensive, expert approach to managing the condition. Dr. Ho is dedicated to both immediate relief and long-term skin health, providing her patients with effective solutions that go beyond temporary fixes.
Comprehensive Management
Dr. Ho’s approach to rosacea treatment goes beyond addressing just the visible symptoms. She takes the time to understand each patient's unique case and creates a tailored plan that provides both short-term relief and long-term management. Her goal is to help you control flare-ups while also providing you with the tools to maintain clear, healthy skin over time.
Tailored Treatment Plans
Since rosacea affects everyone differently, Dr. Ho designs personalised treatment plans based on your specific rosacea subtype, skin type, and individual triggers. This ensures that the treatment you receive is most effective for your needs, whether you’re dealing with redness, bumps, or more advanced symptoms. By taking a customised approach, Dr. Ho maximises the chances of success and helps you achieve the best possible results.
Minimally Invasive Solutions
Dr. Ho offers a variety of non-invasive treatments, including topical medications and laser therapies, that help improve skin clarity without requiring extensive recovery time. Laser treatments are particularly beneficial for reducing visible blood vessels and redness, while topical medications can address inflammation and breakouts. These minimally invasive solutions allow you to achieve smoother, clearer skin without the need for surgery or significant downtime.
Expert Care
With Dr. Ho's years of experience in dermatology and her specialised knowledge of rosacea, patients benefit from expert care that’s both compassionate and effective. Dr. Ho’s holistic approach to rosacea ensures that she addresses not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional and lifestyle factors that can impact skin health. Her comprehensive, long-term approach ensures that rosacea is managed effectively, helping patients achieve clearer, healthier skin and regain confidence in their appearance.
What to Expect During Rosacea Treatment
Consultation and Diagnosis
When you come in for your initial consultation, Dr. Ho will thoroughly assess the severity of your rosacea. She will ask about your symptoms, skincare habits, and any potential triggers that could be contributing to flare-ups, such as diet, stress, or sun exposure. Understanding these factors is key to determining the most effective treatment plan. Dr. Ho will also examine your skin to identify which rosacea subtype you have—whether it's redness and visible blood vessels, acne-like bumps, skin thickening, or eye-related symptoms. Based on this comprehensive evaluation, she will create a personalised treatment plan designed to address your specific needs and help manage your rosacea long-term.
Treatment Options
Dr. Ho typically offers a combination of treatments to provide the best results for her patients. Depending on the severity and type of rosacea, your treatment plan may include:
- Topical Treatments: Dr. Ho may prescribe medicated creams or gels to help reduce redness, inflammation, and bumps associated with rosacea. These medications work directly on the skin to soothe irritation and control flare-ups.
- Oral Medications: For more severe rosacea, oral antibiotics like doxycycline may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. In some cases, isotretinoin may be recommended for advanced cases.
- Laser and Light-Based Therapy: If visible blood vessels or persistent redness are a concern, Dr. Ho may suggest laser treatments such as VBEAM laserThese non-invasive procedures help reduce redness and stimulate collagen production, improving overall skin texture and tone. Laser treatments typically require multiple sessions to achieve the best results, and Dr. Ho will guide you through the process to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Injectables Therapy: Injectable treatments for rosacea target redness, hydration, and skin barrier repair. Botulinum toxin reduces flushing by calming vascular activity, while hyaluronic acid fillers such as Profhilo boost hydration and improve skin elasticity. Rejuran, made from salmon DNA polynucleotides, supports skin repair, reduces inflammation, and strengthens the skin barrier. Combining these treatments over a few monthly sessions can provide optimal results.
Post-Treatment Care
After your treatment, Dr. Ho will provide detailed instructions on how to care for your skin to maintain the results and prevent flare-ups. Post-treatment care often includes recommendations on skincare routines that are gentle and soothing for rosacea-prone skin, along with lifestyle tips to avoid common triggers. Dr. Ho will advise you on the importance of sun protection, using gentle cleansers, and avoiding harsh skincare ingredients. By following her post-treatment guidance, you can help minimise the risk of future flare-ups and enjoy clearer, healthier skin in the long run.
Whether you’re undergoing topical treatments, oral medications, laser or injectables therapy, Dr. Ho’s goal is to support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth treatment experience and lasting improvements in your skin’s health.
Who Should Consider Rosacea Treatment?
Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects many people, and if you're experiencing persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels, bumps, or increased skin sensitivity, you may benefit from treatment. Managing rosacea can help improve the overall appearance of your skin and reduce the impact of symptoms on your daily life.
Individuals Experiencing Persistent Redness, Bumps, Visible Blood Vessels, or Sensitivity
If you’ve noticed chronic redness on your face, along with visible blood vessels or acne-like bumps that don't seem to improve on their own, treatment may be necessary. These symptoms can be signs of rosacea, and addressing them with appropriate treatments can help reduce their appearance. Increased skin sensitivity, where your skin reacts more easily to products or environmental factors, is another key indicator that may require professional intervention.
Patients Looking for Non-Invasive Options
For those who prefer non-invasive treatments, rosacea can often be managed effectively with topical medications, oral antibiotics, and laser therapies. These treatments are designed to reduce inflammation, redness, and visible blood vessels without the need for surgery. Non-invasive options like laser therapy, for instance, can target specific skin concerns like redness or broken capillaries, offering noticeable improvements with little to no downtime.
Anyone Who Has Identified Triggers and Seeks Professional Guidance
Many people with rosacea find that certain triggers—such as sun or heat exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, or stress—can worsen their symptoms. If you've identified your triggers but are struggling to manage them effectively, seeking professional help can help you develop a plan to control flare-ups and prevent further progression of the condition. By learning how to avoid or mitigate triggers and adopting an appropriate skincare routine, you can maintain clearer, healthier skin and prevent rosacea from becoming more severe over time.
If you're dealing with any of these rosacea-related symptoms and want to take control of your skin's health, exploring treatment options can help improve both the appearance and the comfort of your skin.
Why Choose Dr. Stephanie Ho for Rosacea Treatment?
Experienced Dermatologist
Dr. Stephanie Ho brings years of experience and expertise in treating rosacea, making her highly qualified to manage this complex and often frustrating skin condition. She understands the unique challenges rosacea patients face and is dedicated to helping them find effective solutions. With a deep knowledge of the various rosacea subtypes and treatment options, Dr. Ho is well-equipped to guide you through the most appropriate care for your skin.
Cutting-Edge Technology
At Dr. Ho’s clinic, patients have access to the latest advancements in rosacea treatment, including state-of-the-art laser therapy. These vascular lasers, are highly effective in reducing redness, minimising visible blood vessels, and improving overall skin texture. By offering the most current and effective treatments, Dr. Ho ensures that patients receive the best possible care for managing rosacea symptoms.
Comprehensive Approach
Dr. Ho takes a holistic, comprehensive approach to rosacea care. She develops personalised treatment plans that address each patient’s individual symptoms, rosacea subtype, and unique triggers. Whether it’s through a combination of topical medications, oral treatments, laser or injectables therapy, Dr. Ho ensures that every aspect of your rosacea is treated effectively. Her approach not only targets the visible symptoms but also works to prevent flare-ups by identifying and managing underlying causes and triggers.
Patient-Centred Care
Dr. Ho is known for her patient-centred approach, focusing on the long-term management of rosacea as well as immediate symptom relief. She takes the time to understand each patient’s concerns and offers guidance on lifestyle changes, skincare routines, and trigger management. Her goal is to provide lasting solutions that help patients maintain healthy skin while reducing the frequency of flare-ups.
FAQs About Rosacea Treatment at Stephanie Ho Dermatology
Can Rosacea Be Cured?
Currently, there is no cure for rosacea, as it is a chronic skin condition. However, it can be effectively managed with the right treatments. With a combination of topical medications, oral treatments, laser therapies, and lifestyle adjustments, many patients experience significant improvements in their skin's appearance and symptom control. While treatment doesn't "cure" rosacea, it can help manage flare-ups and prevent the condition from worsening.
How Long Does It Take to See Results from Treatment?
The time it takes to see results from rosacea treatment can vary depending on the severity of your condition and the types of treatments being used. Topical treatments, like metronidazole or azelaic acid, can take 4 to 6 weeks to show visible improvements. Oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, may take 4 to 8 weeks to significantly reduce inflammation and redness. Laser therapies can show results after just 1 to 3 sessions, though multiple treatments may be needed for the best outcomes. Injectables can also take 1 to 3 sessions to show visible results. It's important to be patient and consistent with your treatment plan to achieve the best results.
What Triggers Rosacea Flare-ups?
Rosacea flare-ups can be triggered by a variety of factors, and triggers vary from person to person. Common triggers include:
- Sun exposure: UV rays can irritate the skin and cause flare-ups.
- Hot or spicy foods: Certain foods and drinks, like spicy dishes or alcohol, can increase blood flow to the face and worsen symptoms.
- Stress: Emotional stress is a known trigger for many people with rosacea.
- Temperature extremes: Both hot weather and cold weather can exacerbate symptoms.
- Harsh skincare products: Strong skincare ingredients, fragrances, or alcohol-based products can irritate sensitive skin.
- Exercise: Intense physical activity can increase blood flow and lead to flare-ups, especially if you get overheated.
Identifying and managing your individual triggers is key to controlling rosacea flare-ups.
Are There Any Side Effects from Laser Treatment for Rosacea?
Laser treatments, such as vascular laser therapy, are generally safe for rosacea patients and offer effective results with minimal downtime. However, like any medical procedure, there can be some temporary side effects. These may include:
- Redness or swelling: The treated area may appear red or swollen immediately after the procedure, similar to a mild sunburn. This typically resolves within a few hours to a day.
- Bruising: Rarely, patients may experience mild bruising, especially after vascular laser treatment. This is usually temporary and fades within a week or two.
- Sensitivity: The skin may feel sensitive for a few days, and you may need to avoid sun exposure until the redness subsides.
- Changes in pigmentation: Rarely, patients may experience temporary lightening or darkening of the skin in the treated area, but this usually resolves on its own.
Most side effects are mild and temporary, and laser treatments are well-tolerated by most patients. Your dermatologist will provide aftercare instructions to minimise any risks.
How Can I Prevent Future Flare-ups?
Preventing future rosacea flare-ups involves both managing triggers and adopting a consistent skincare routine. Here are some tips to help you prevent flare-ups:
- Protect your skin from the sun: Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and seek shade when outdoors. Sun exposure is one of the most common triggers for rosacea flare-ups.
- Avoid known triggers: Identify and avoid foods, beverages, or environmental factors that trigger your symptoms. Common triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, and extreme temperatures.
- Use gentle skincare products: Stick to fragrance-free, soothing skincare products designed for sensitive skin. Avoid harsh exfoliants or alcohol-based toners that can irritate the skin.
- Follow a regular skincare routine: Use a mild cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen daily to keep your skin hydrated and protected. Consistency is key to maintaining healthy skin.
- Manage stress: Practise stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to minimise stress-related flare-ups.
By incorporating these habits into your daily routine and working closely with a dermatologist, you can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of rosacea flare-ups and maintain clearer, healthier skin over time.
If you’re ready to take control of your rosacea and experience clearer, healthier skin, don't wait any longer. Dr. Stephanie Ho offers expert, personalised care designed to address your unique skin concerns and help you manage rosacea effectively. Whether you're looking for treatment options to reduce redness, control flare-ups, or improve overall skin texture, Dr. Ho will work with you to create a customised plan that fits your needs.