Rosacea… skincare solutions
Rosacea is one of the most frequent concerns today in general dermatology. The National Rosacea Society estimates that at least 16 million Americans have active rosacea. In addition, many millions are in a state of remission with the possibility of future flares. The month of April has been designated Rosacea Awareness Month. We would like to highlight the key points of rosacea diagnosis and treatment.
Studies show that roughly 75% of rosacea patients suffer from decreased self-esteem, while 40-75% will limit social or professional engagements due to rosacea. Genetic in nature, and often starting in the 4th to 5th decade of life, rosacea occurs due to instability in the superficial tiny blood vessels of the central face. As it progresses, the affected areas take on a ruddy hue with visibly enlarged blood vessels. Often, inflammation and acne-like eruptions may occur, as well as embarrassing episodic flushing and increased redness over time. In advanced cases, the skin may take on a thickened and bumpy appearance that may be permanent without preventative management.
The medical management of rosacea is complex and may involve multiple modalities. Topical skin care products and medications, such as Redness Relief CalmPlex by SkinMedica ($80 at skinfo.com),Vital Tea Serum ($65 at skinfo.com) or Cream ($63 at skinfo.com) by skinfo®, Pyratine-6 by Senetek ($130 at skinfo.com) and/or Beat the Rush by mybody ($85 at skinfo.com) help reduce the severity and frequency of redness and flushing. Prescription topical medications such as Finacea Gel and Metrogel are helpful for reducing inflammation and acne-like lesions. For moderate to severe cases, oral antibiotics and laser treatments are usually recommended for quicker and more robust results.
In most cases, once rosacea is under control, certain treatments are continued on a long-term basis to avoid progression of the condition. Only laser treatments can eradicate dilated blood vessels, often called “broken blood vessels.” Advanced Dermatology uses 3 different lasers for rosacea: V-Beam, Genesis/Vantage and ELOS-intense pulsed light. Advanced Dermatology has performed two studies with lasers for rosacea that show a significant improvement in redness, dilated blood vessels, acne breakouts and global evaluations. These treatments do not typically have downtime. Post treatment there is usually an increase in redness that lasts a short time and makeup may be applied immediately after treatment. Unfortunately, the laser treatments are not covered by insurance, but are an effective treatment solution.
If you feel that you may be affected by rosacea and wish to seek advice regarding diagnosis and treatment options please contact our office for an appointment with one of our providers.