WHAT IS ROSACEA & ACNE ROSACEA?
Acne rosacea is an inflammatory disorder of the skin. It’s most common among adults with fair complexions. Rosacea is genetically-based and is caused by blood vessel ingrowth near the skin’s surface. This can cause anything from mild facial flushing to persistent redness. It can even lead to more severe pimples and skin thickening.
When these vessels dilate they cause flushing and the release of mediators. These cause the skin to become red and inflamed. This disorder is primarily genetically-based. Although, there are a number of environmental triggers, including sun, heat and steam.
Other triggers that can aggravate this condition include:
- Hormones
- Stress
- Diet
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Spicy foods
Food allergies can also be contributors to skin inflammation. Although acne rosacea is relatively hard-wired in our genes, we can still control our symptoms.
Diagnosis for Rosacea
There is no diagnostic test for rosacea or acne rosacea. Instead, doctors rely on a physical examination and the patients history of symptoms. They may also run tests for other conditions with similar symptoms to rule them out. These include:
- Acne
- Eczema
- Lupus
- Psoriasis
Treatments for Rosacea
Although there is no cure for this skin condition, it is manageable. Treatments for rosacea reduce the appearance and frequency of the symptoms. Often these treatments use both medical prescriptions and skin care treatments.
Depending on the symptoms and their severity, different drugs may be prescribed. Brimonidine is common for redness. Antibiotics like doxycycline can reduce bacteria and inflammation. Doctors may prescribe isotretinoin if other medications are ineffective.
All of these medications receive added benefits in combination with laser therapy. Pulsed light therapy (such as BBL) is one of the most effective treatments for rosacea.
The laser reduces the redness caused by enlarged blood vessels and rhinophyma. BroadBand Light treatment also helps to provide even textures and colouration. It can repair and rejuvenate skin.
A safe, effective, non-surgical process, BBL treatment is an ideal way to deal with recurring skin conditions, like rosacea. Contact us to book your BBL treatment for rosacea in our Newmarket Skin Care Clinic.