Rosacea by Any Other Name: Treatment Options

When patients come to Full Spectrum Dermatology, they know that they will receive some of the finest skin care treatment in the greater Fullerton area. Our cosmetic dermatology services are able to address wrinkles and lines as well as various blemishes.

Many patients at our practice have issues with rosacea. We'd like to consider some of the basics of rosacea and then go over your various options for treatment.

About Rosacea

Rosacea is a common condition that affect people's skin. When rosacea occurs, a person's skin becomes red and look irritated. In addition to redness, it's not uncommon for the condition to cause small, red bumps filled with pus.

Cases of rosacea can worsen over time, which is why it's important to meet with a skin care specialist should you notice its signs and symptoms.

The Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea

Common signs and symptoms of rosacea include the following:

• Redness of the face
• Small blood vessels visible around nose and cheeks
• Red bumps on face (similar to acne)
• Dry eye
• Eye irritation
• Thickening of the skin of the nose

Causes of Rosacea

The exact cause of rosacea has yet to be determined. However, the condition is thought to be linked to swelling blood vessels as well as some combination of genetic and environmental factors. Further medical research is necessary to uncover the root cause of the problem.

Some factors that may increase blood flow to the skin and make a case of rosacea appear worse include the following:

• Exposure to sunlight
• Hot foods
• Hot beverages
• Spicy foods
• Alcohol consumption
• Stress
• Anxiety
• Strenuous exercise
• Use of certain blood pressure drugs

Risk Factors for Rosacea

Rosacea tends to be more common in women than men. People of fairer complexion are also more likely to be affected by rosacea than people with darker skin. The condition is more common among people who are at least 30 years old, with cases of rosacea becoming more common as patients get beyond middle age.

Treatments for Rosacea

When it comes to treating rosacea, the best options tend to involve getting the condition under control so it doesn't adversely affect your appearance. Common treatments include:

• Antibiotics – Since antibiotics have anti-inflammatory effects, they've proven effective for addressing some cases of rosacea.

• Sunscreen – As a preventative measure, using sunscreen can help prevent serious flare ups of rosacea and keep your skin from appearing too red or discolored.

• Use of Acne Drugs – When antibiotics prove ineffective at yielding optimal results, sometimes powerful acne drugs may be considered an ideal treatment.

• Laser Skin Resurfacing – Laser skin resurfacing treatments can have positive effects on managing the redness of the skin and improving overall appearance.

• Light Therapy Treatments – Light therapies that expose the skin to intense pulses of light can help control the appearance of blood vessels and reduce facial redness in the process.

• Dermabrasion – Dermabrasion is a process that resurfaces the skin, which can be ideal for removing thickened skin and red bumps.

• Electrosurgery/Electrocautery – This process involves the use of carefully applied electrical current and heat to remove unwanted tissue and prevent bleeding of small blood vessels in the treatment area.

Schedule a Consultation at Full Spectrum Dermatology

To learn more about your options for advanced facial rejuvenation treatment, be sure to contact our cosmetic dermatology and skin care center today. The entire team at Full Spectrum Dermatology is here to help you look and feel your best.