6 Treatment Options for Rosacea You Need to Know

What is Rosacea: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

We treat a lot of patients with Rosacea here at Bolus Med Spa in Elkridge Maryland. Lets get the elephant our of the room….Rosacea is here to stay. There is no “cure”, but we can often assist in managing or suppressing the symptoms. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes pimples and swelling. While it’s a common condition, its exact cause remains unknown, and it often requires ongoing management. Let’s delve deeper into the types, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment options for rosacea.

Types of Rosacea:

  1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: Characterized by persistent redness and visible blood vessels.
  2. Papulopustular Rosacea: Involves redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
  3. Phymatous Rosacea: Results in thickening of the skin, often leading to a bulbous nose (rhinophyma) or other facial deformities.
  4. Ocular Rosacea: Affects the eyes, causing redness, dryness, and irritation.

Causes of Rosacea:

While the precise cause of rosacea remains elusive, several factors may contribute to its development:

  • Genetic predisposition
  • Abnormalities in the immune system
  • Environmental triggers like sunlight, heat, wind, or certain foods and beverages such as alcohol
  • Demodex mites or bacteria on the skin
  • Blood vessel abnormalities

Risk Factors for Rosacea:

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing rosacea:

  • Fair skin
  • Age (typically affects individuals between 30 and 60)
  • Family history of rosacea
  • Being female (though men may experience more severe symptoms)
  • Certain triggers like spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, stress, and extreme temperatures

How to Make Rosacea Diagnosis:

Diagnosing rosacea typically involves a physical examination by a dermatologist. This is a great first step if you haven’t done so already. The rosacea provider in Maryland may inquire about symptoms, triggers, and medical history. In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as lupus or eczema.

Rosacea Treatment Options:

While rosacea cannot be cured, Bolus Med Spa offer various rosacea treatments in Maryland that can help manage symptoms and minimize flare-ups:

  1. Topical Medications: Prescription creams or gels containing antibiotics, azelaic acid, or metronidazole can reduce redness and inflammation.
  2. Oral Antibiotics: Antibiotics like doxycycline or tetracycline may be prescribed for moderate to severe cases to reduce inflammation and control bacteria.
  3. Laser Therapy: Intense pulsed light (IPL) or Broad Band Light (BBL) laser therapy can effectively reduce redness, visible blood vessels, and thickened skin associated with rosacea.
  4. Avoiding Triggers: Identifying and avoiding triggers like sunlight, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress can help prevent flare-ups.
  5. Skincare Routine: Gentle skincare products without harsh chemicals or fragrances can help soothe and protect sensitive skin.
  6. Moisturizers and Sunscreen: Regular use of moisturizers and broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher can protect the skin from irritation and sun damage.

How To Prevent Flare Ups: American Academy of Dermatology Association

Conclusion:

Not sure if you have rosacea? Book your Free Rosacea screening now! Rosacea can significantly impact a person’s quality of life due to its visible symptoms and potential discomfort. However, with proper diagnosis and management, individuals with rosacea can effectively control their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. If you suspect you have rosacea or are struggling to manage its symptoms, consult a dermatologist or make a complimentary virtual appointment on our web site for personalized treatment options tailored to your needs. www.bolusmedspa.com

Mark Abbott Nurse Practitioner

Mark Abbott, MSN, CRNP, FNP

Mark Abbott is the founder of Bolus Medical Spa, expert injector and laser specialist emphasizing optimal treatments in fractionated and non-fractionated lasers including sub and fully ablative laser treatments like ERBIUM TRL, HALO, MOXI, BBL, TETRA and more!

As a board‑certified nurse practitioner, Mark is specialized in cosmetic dermatological and laser procedures focusing on acne, pigment, anti-aging and skin rejuvenation using the latest medical grade technology and tools. He has dedicated his life to healthcare and has more than 25 years of healthcare experience including emergency medicine, urgent care, family medicine, and telehealth.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with a qualified medical professional to determine what is best for you.