What is Rosacea? Rosacea is a long-term, common, inflammatory skin condition that causes reddened skin and a rash, most often on the nose and cheeks. This chronic skin condition is often mistaken for acne, eczema, or an allergic skin reaction.
Symptoms of Rosacea
First signs of Rosacea are usually redness, appearing like a blush or sunburn across the nose, cheeks, forehead, or chin. Other symptoms include red or pus-filled bumps and small blood vessels. The nose may become red, thick, or swollen on some people. If you have Rosacea, you’re not alone – an estimated 16 million people have Rosacea, according to the National Rosacea Society.
IPL Treatments for Rosacea
While Rosacea cannot be cured it can be effectively treated with IPL/Photofacial treatments which help relieve the symptoms and improve skin appearance. IPL is a well established, effective way to remove the visible blood vessels and in reducing the redness from a Rosacea flare-up.
Wavelengths of the IPL laser are used to destroy targeted blood vessels which is an effective way to treat telangiectasia. The specific wavelengths of light are absorbed by the red blood cells, while short pulses target only the blood vessels which reduces the damage to surrounding facial tissue.
Ways To Avoid or Prevent Rosacea Flare-ups
Causes of Rosacea is unknown, you can’t prevent it, although there are triggers you can avoid to prevent flare-ups. Common triggers are:
- Certain food, such as chocolate and spicy foods
- Alcohol
- Stress and anxiety
- Harsh skin care products
- Extreme weather and strong winds
- Overexposure to sun or heat
- Menopause
IPL/Photofacial Treatments for Treating Rosacea
Because Rosacea is a chronic condition, 1 – 2 IPL treatments a year may be needed for maintenance. For many years, lasers and light-based treatments have successfully been used to treat the visible blood vessels, redness, and swelling that Rosacea causes. IPL uses controlled light in specific wavelengths to alleviate the inflammation, redness, pimples, and uneven skin tones that Rosacea causes. It is a gentle, long-lasting solution by providing a gradual and natural improvement to the skin’s appearance.
Dos and Don’ts
- Do have your treatments done by Master Estheticians, like the staff at Caddell’s Laser & Electrolysis Clinic.
- Do avoid your rosacea triggers.
- Do maintain good skincare and apply sunscreen daily.
- Don’t undergo treatment if you have a tan; this increases your risk of skin color change, burns, and scarring.
Living with Rosacea
Rosacea can worsen over time, making it important to know and understand how to avoid triggers. Treatment can help relieve symptoms and improve skin appearance. It’s important to always wear sunscreen. If left untreated, it can worsen over time. If you think you may have Rosacea, contact Caddell’s for a consultation to determine what the best treatment would be for you
