About Our ROSACEA Treatments
Rosacea is a chronic condition that affects the skin of the face and is categorized by redness and flushing on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and other parts of the face. There is no cure for rosacea, but it can be treated by a licensed dermatologist like Dr. Yang
Doctors are unsure of exactly what causes rosacea; it may be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Rosacea also occurs in cycles, so you may have flare-ups for weeks or months at a time, then go into remission for a period of time.
WHO GETS ROSACEA?
Rosacea can affect men and women of any age and skin tone, although it’s most prominent in adults in their 30s or older who have lighter skin tones, blonde hair, and blue eyes. Typically, men show more severe symptoms than women do.
GENERAL SYMPTOMS
Although symptoms of rosacea can differ from person to person, there are many common symptoms to look out for:
- Redness
- Skin thickening
- Small bumps and pimples
- Flushing of the skin
- Dryness
- Swelling
- Visible blood vessels
- Sensitive skin
DIFFERENT TYPES OF ROSACEA
There are four different types of rosacea, each with their own set of symptoms. It is possible to have multiple types at once.
The four different types of rosacea are:
- Subtype One: Also referred to as erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR), the symptoms of subtype one consist of redness on the face, visible blood vessels, and flushing.
- Subtype Two: This is also known as papulopustular rosacea and consists of breakouts that look similar to acne. Middle-aged women are most affected by subtype two rosacea.
- Subtype Three: This rare type of rosacea mostly affects men in their 50s and up and is called rhinophyma; it is characterized by redness and thickening of the skin on the nose.
- Subtype Four: Also called ocular rosacea, this type of rosacea affects the area around the eyes. Some symptoms may include itchy and watery eyes, burning and/or stinging around the eyes, and sensitivity to light.
HOW IS ROSACEA TREATED?
Because rosacea affects every patient differently and has a wide range of symptoms, rosacea must be treated by a doctor or licensed dermatologist like Dr. Wang. Dr. Wang will tailor a specific treatment plan to help control your rosacea symptoms.
He may prescribe a topical treatment, oral treatment, or a combination of the two. In addition to these treatments, laser therapy may be performed.
You can also take steps to control your rosacea flare-ups by altering your lifestyle. You should avoid direct sunlight and avoid drinking alcohol. You should also stay away from products that contain alcohol, witch hazel, menthol, and exfoliating agents.
GOOD CANDIDATES FOR A Rosacea TREATMENT
Each person who lives with rosacea may be triggered by different factors. It is important to keep a journal or list of foods that may trigger a flare-up. Some common triggers include spicy foods; foods that contain cinnamaldehyde (like cinnamon, chocolate, tomatoes, and citrus); and hot tea and/or coffee.