Rosacea is a very common skin condition. It starts with a tendency to flush more easily than other individuals, and can evolve into redness on the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead. Some patients get bumps on their face associated with rosacea and it can also affect the eyelids, resulting in dry eye. The cause of rosacea is not known, but it does tend to run in families with fair skin. It often flares up when triggers such as exercise, sun exposure, hot weather, stress, spicy food, alcohol and hot baths are present.

Treatment options include low dose doxycycline and certain skin creams. There are new lasers and light sources that have the ability to close the abnormal vessels that cause the redness, resulting in a cleaner complexion. Broad-based light and 1064 laser treatments are both effective. While rosacea can be controlled and managed, it can’t currently be cured. The vessels in rosacea are similar to the hedges that grow in our yards, which can be trimmed but grow back over time. Rosacea acts in a similar way. It usually takes 2-4 initial treatments to get the dilated vessels under control, and then requires retreatment every 3 to 4 months to maintain control.

Take a look at these photos of patients who’ve had BBL and 1064 laser treatments to help their rosacea. Notice the improvement.

If you or someone you know are suffering with rosacea, consider seeking help from a surgeon who has these laser devices.