Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition that is commonly mistaken for acne or eczema. In Australia, rosacea affects 10 per cent of the population. Typically, the first symptoms of this condition appear between ages 30 to 50 and, unfortunately, only worsen over time.
Rosacea can significantly impact the lives of people living with it, so one must understand essential information about this chronic skin disease and possible skin laser clinic treatments that can deal with the symptoms. Read on to learn everything you need to know about the causes, symptoms, and maintenance measures for rosacea.
What Is Rosacea?
Medically termed “rosacea acne”, rosacea is a noncontagious inflammatory skin condition characterised by lesions (pustules and papules), redness (central facial erythema), and stinging sensation.
Frequent blushing of the skin lasting for a few minutes is a common first sign of rosacea. In more severe cases, the redness can extend to the neck and chest of a patient.
What Are the Causes of Rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but genetics, the patient’s immune system, internal inflammation, and some harmful organisms are believed to contribute to its emergence and spread.
Factors that can worsen the symptoms of the skin condition are:
● Consumption of alcohol and hot drinks
● Emotional stress
● Extreme weather conditions
● Hormonal changes due to menopause
● Spicy food intake
● Ultraviolet (UV) exposure
What Are the Common Symptoms of Rosacea?
Take note of frequent facial redness that comes with stinging and swelling, as these are well-known rosacea symptoms.
Other signs to watch out for include:
● Enlarged facial capillaries
● Permanent flush across the nose and cheeks
● Red and bumpy nose with enlarged pores
● Swollen eyes or eyelids
● Thickened skin
● Tiny lumps on the forehead, cheeks, and chin that may become painful
What Are the Potential Treatments for Rosacea?
Although rosacea is a chronic skin disease that cannot be cured, it is a condition that can definitely be controlled. Fortunately, the common symptoms for rosacea often respond to readily available treatments.
From topical medication to light therapy, there is a wide range of treatments for its symptoms. Consult with a trusted dermatologist so you can get the most suitable procedure for you and your lifestyle needs.
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor will suggest the following treatment measures:
1. Topical Applications
● Azelaic acid
● Brimonidine tartrate
● Ivermectin
● Metronidazole
● Sodium sulfacetamide and sulphur
● Tretinoin cream
2. Oral Medications
● Antibiotics
● Isotretinoin
3. Cosmetic Surgery
4. Laser and Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
5. Lifestyle Adjustments
● Maintaining the skin’s cleanliness
● Steering clear of known triggers
● Using less facial products
While waiting for any rosacea treatment measure to take effect, it is important to be patient as the timeline will vary. Most individuals may observe minor changes within three to four weeks of treatment and significant developments in about two to three months.
Conclusion
Excellent quality of life is still possible for people with rosacea. It is a deeply misunderstood skin condition; therefore, it is crucial to be familiar with triggers and maintenance measures to provide the right support for individuals afflicted with this disease.
In addition to determining the proper medication or procedure for a specific case of rosacea, consulting with a skilled and reliable dermatologist also ensures ample guidance for the patient throughout the process of dealing with the condition.
Are you looking for a skin laser clinic in Point Cook for rosacea or other conditions? Book an appointment with Advanced Laser Clinic today. We provide unique, state-of-the-art, and noninvasive procedures suitable for all skin types. Feel free to contact us about any skin problems you may be experiencing.