Rosacea

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes skin inflammation, acne-like bumps, dilated blood vessels, and rough patches on your cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. While uncommon, rosacea can also appear on your chest, neck, and even in your ears. Rosacea typically occurs in flare-ups, so you may have extended periods of clear skin followed by a prolonged flare-up.

What causes rosacea?

The cause of rosacea is currently unknown, but your family history or genetic makeup may contribute to rosacea development. Although the origin of rosacea isn't clear, you can often identify the trigger of your flare-ups.

The most common rosacea triggers include:

• Eating spicy foods
• Drinking very hot beverages
• Sudden temperature change
• Stress
• Sun exposure

Every time you have a rosacea flare-up, it’s helpful to take notes of the circumstances surrounding it. Knowing your triggers may be the key to controlling your rosacea, especially if you have the support and guidance of your Z-ROC Dermatology doctor as well.

How is rosacea treated?

Dr. Zarraga and Dr. Wongkittiroch offer a variety of effective rosacea treatment options, including:

Topical Medication

Topical medication options include topical antibiotics, retinoids, vasoconstrictors, and azelaic acid.

Oral Medication

Oral antibiotics may be helpful in controlling rosacea. The most popular choice is doxycycline, but tetracycline and minocycline are also options in some cases. Another option for cases of severe rosacea is isotretinoin, which is a drug usually used for acne. Isotretinoin can help with acne-like bumps, even when other treatments can't.

Lasers

Lasers like the Cutera XLV and the Palomar Icon intense pulsed light (IPL) systems use high-powered laser light to target and destroy vascular lesions and reduce redness.

Regardless of your specific treatment, it's also important that you take steps to care for your skin properly at home. This includes daily use of a high-SPF sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure and windy conditions that could aggravate your skin. Your Z-ROC Dermatology doctor can also recommend a quality skin care regimen that includes a gentle non-soap cleanser and moisturizer.

Don’t let rosacea rule your life any longer. Call or book an appointment online today.