 What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a skin disease characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels (telangectasiae), pustules, acne-like lesions, and sensitivity to many lotions and cosmetics. In its most severe form, a person may develop a large, scarred, misshapen nose (rhinophyma). With today’s treatment options, rosacea need never result in this severe problem.
 The cause of rosacea is unknown, but it appears to be associated with several risk factors. Fair-skinned people with blonde or red hair are more prone to develop it. It tends to get worse as one gets older. Sun exposure, heat, alcohol, and emotional upset can make it worse. Some spicy foods may make it worse.
The treatment of Rosacea is often multifaceted.
Many rosacea sufferers keep a journal of their rosacea: when it flares, what they were doing at the time, what they were eating or drinking, and any emotional stressors. This is important because a lot of the triggers for rosacea can be avoided if you know what they are.
Patients may also benefit from topical antibiotic preparations, prescription topical medications, oral antibiotics, and laser therapy. Laser therapy is often quite effective in removing the dilated blood vessels. This may take more than one treatment.
How long does Rosacea last?
It is a chronic disease. You control it, but it never totally disappears. The earlier you treat it, the better.
What treatment is the best for you?
The best way to tell is to make an appointment for an evaluation. We offer many treatment options which may be right for you.
The National Rosacea Society is a good information source.
It can be found at rosacea.org.
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