Our Services / Rosacea

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that causes redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and other uncomfortable symptoms. 

It typically appears on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin but can develop in other areas. Rosacea commonly affects middle-aged women, but many younger adults also have the condition.

Are there different types of rosacea?

The four most common types of rosacea are:

Subtype 1: Rosacea

Also called erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR), this type causes facial blushing, increased blood vessels, and redness that inflames the skin.

Subtype 2: Acne rosacea

Acne rosacea involves persistent redness and small, acne-like bumps on the face, often affecting the central part of the face, including the nose and cheeks.

Subtype 3: Rhinophyma

Rhinophyma, a rare, advanced form of rosacea, thickens the skin on the nose, resulting in a bulbous and enlarged appearance.

Subtype 4: Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, leading to symptoms such as redness, burning, and the sensation of a foreign body in the eye.

What triggers rosacea?

Many factors can trigger a rosacea flare-up, including:

Food and drink

Spicy foods, hot beverages, alcohol, and foods high in histamines can trigger rosacea symptoms in some people.

Extreme temperatures

Exposure to hot weather, sunlight, or extreme cold can exacerbate rosacea symptoms.

Emotional stress

Stress and emotional factors may trigger or worsen rosacea flare-ups.

Intense exercise

Strenuous physical activity and high-intensity exercise can contribute to rosacea symptoms.

Skincare products

Some skin care products containing harsh ingredients or alcohol can irritate the skin and trigger rosacea.

Certain medications

Vasodilating (widening blood vessels) medications, topical corticosteroids, and other drugs may contribute to rosacea symptoms in susceptible individuals.

Demodex mites

An overgrowth of Demodex mites on the skin may trigger rosacea in some cases, particularly in those with eye problems like blepharitis.

Genetics

People with family members who have rosacea are more likely to develop the condition, particularly if they’re women.

What are the treatments for rosacea?

Dermatology & Advanced Skin Care takes a patient-centered approach to rosacea treatment that may include multiple strategies, including:

• Topical medications (metronidazole, azelaic acid, ivermectin)
• Oral antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline)
• Topical steroids
• Oral medications, like isotretinoin
• Trigger avoidance
• Pulsed-dye laser (PDL) therapy
• Intense-pulsed light (IPL) therapy
• Topical brimonidine
• Gentle cleansers and moisturizers
• Sun protection
• Stress management

Your board-certified dermatologist can develop a personalized plan that reduces your symptoms and minimizes flare-ups. 

Call Dermatology & Advanced Skin Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.