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Rosacea is a common condition, effecting approximately 16 million Americans. It is a dysregulation of inflammation in the skin of the face typically centered on the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but we know there are triggers which cause it to flare. Avoiding the triggers along with using anti-inflammatory medications is the most effective treatment we have.

Some well-known triggers are sunlight, alcohol, hot drinks, wind, hot and cold weather, spicy foods and caffeine. Individuals may find that certain things set off their rosacea, while tolerating other triggers well.

Medications come as a wash, a topical and oral. Some medications are better for different types of rosacea. Your dermatologist can get you on the right one. Oral medications are faster, but topicals are usually a better long-term treatment.

Long standing inflammation can result in permanently dilated capillaries, creating facial redness that stays even when the inflammation is not present. This is when adding a laser treatment is beneficial to permanently decrease the background erythema or redness.

Uncontrolled rosacea can lead to enlargement of the oil glands in the cheeks and nose, creating a condition called rhinophyma. This can be improved with oil gland shrinking medication like Accutane as well as the treatments mentioned previously. Surgical removal of the glandular tissue on the nose can bring back the normal appearance of the nose.

If you are suffering from rosacea, please reach out to us. There are a variety of ways to help improve your skin. We want your skin look its best.

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-Daniel Hansen, DO