Rosacea

Chronic facial condition causing flushing, redness, bumps, and visible vessels. Managed by triggers, topicals, oral meds, and laser.

What is Rosacea

Rosacea is thought to occur due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. Patients of European descent have a greater tendency to develop rosacea, but rosacea can be seen in all ethnic backgrounds and skin tones. It classically presents with red or inflamed skin, sometimes with associated papules and pustules, most often around the nose and cheeks.

What Causes Rosacea

In rosacea, there is inflammation in the skin and enlarged/prominent blood vessels. Many things can trigger rosacea flares because they cause the superficial blood vessels in the skin to dilate, which causes more inflammation. Aggravating factors may include spicy foods, alcohol, hot drinks, sun exposure, extreme temperatures, hot showers and/or baths, anxiety, anger, embarrassment, overexertion, and specific drugs.
Rosacea is often confused with other skin conditions, but it can be treated and managed effectively if diagnosed properly. Flourish Dermatology And Aesthetics in New Orleans, LA offers numerous advanced solutions, including laser treatments, to lighten the skin and decrease the signs of this chronic condition. Rosacea can occur in every population, but it’s most common in patients with fair skin types. There is no true cure for rosacea, but it can be well managed with the right treatment regimen. If left untreated, it can worsen over the years, causing symptoms to persist and flare up chronically. Contact our practice to set up your skin assessment with Dr. Payne so we can begin building a customized treatment plan to help keep your symptoms at a minimum.

Symptoms & Indicators

Facial redness

Easy flushing or blushing

Visible spider-like blood vessels

Acne-like bumps

Burning or stinging

It usually happens because

The exact cause is unknown

Blood vessel swelling (flushing) under the skin

Being female

Age 30–50

Triggers: Sun, heat, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, cold temps

How do we treat Rosacea

Though rosacea has no known cure, there are many kinds of treatments to help manage the condition. One of the more common approaches involves antibiotics, which can be given in pill form or as a topical cream, lotion, or gel. While pills tend to be more effective in providing rapid results, they can also cause side effects and concern for antibiotic resistance with long-term use. If antibiotics are not effective, acne medications, such as isotretinoin, have proven to work for many patients. Surgery might be needed in circumstances where the symptoms become permanent, such as enlarged cystic lesions that won’t subside with other treatments. Laser surgery or electrosurgery may be effective in minimizing the appearance of blood vessels and background redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.

After Treatment

Treatment can reduce redness, flushing, and bumps while calming irritation. It may also stop rosacea from getting worse and help you feel more confident around others.