Reduce your facial redness caused by those pesky little dilated blood vessels. We recommend a course of Broadband Light (BBL) to rejuvenate your skin and reduce imperfections.
Rosacea is a common inflammatory rash, characterized by facial redness, superficial dilated blood vessels of the face, papules, pustules and swelling. It most commonly affects middle-aged women and people with fair skin. Left untreated, it worsens over time.
The symptom initially noticed is blushing (facial flushing) which becomes more frequent and eventually leads to persistent facial redness which fluctuates in intensity. Small blood vessels dilate and become visible as telangiectasia (broken blood vessels) and the continual or episodic blushing may promote inflammation, causing red bumps to appear which can resemble teenage acne. The cheeks, chin and nose are most commonly affected.
The cause of rosacea is not yet known but there are many theories that exist. We know that certain factors can aggravate or trigger rosacea and these include sunlight, menopause, topical anti-inflammatory creams, spicy foods and also alcohol.
Rosacea & Redness Symptoms
- Flushing
- Papules
- Pustules
- Broken Blood Vessels
Medical treatment helps with the papules and pustules but cannot help with the redness or dilated blood vessels. This requires treatment with a vascular or red laser. Two to five treatments are usually required with ongoing treatment on a yearly basis as well to maintain effect. Your dermatologist will discuss this with you further if you are appropriate for this option of treatment.
Frequently asked questions
What causes rosacea and redness?
The cause of rosacea is currently unknown, but it could be due to a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. However a number of factors can trigger or aggravate rosacea and redness by increasing blood flow to the surface of your skin. Some of these factors include hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, temperature extremes, sunlight, wind, emotions, exercise, cosmetics and blood pressure medications.
What treatments are available for rosacea and redness?
Treatment options for rosacea depend on the severity, but may include:
- Avoidance of known triggers – such as sunlight, alcohol and spicy foods
- Antibiotics – such as doxycycline or minocycline. It is not clear how antibiotics reduce the severity of the rash. Generally antibiotics only start to work after three to four weeks and take six weeks to completely clear rosacea. Two thirds of people have a prolonged remission after a single course of antibiotic. One third relapse within a few months and may require maintenance therapy
- Creams and gels – containing antibiotics, such as metronidazole or containing an antiparasitic agent such as ivermectin applied to the skin
- Diathermy – a small device that generates heat is applied to the damaged blood vessels
- Laser surgery or broadband light (BBL) – to treat the enlarged capillaries
- Surgery – to treat the nose, if disfigured by rhinophyma.
Do I need to do anything before treatment?
- Use an SPF 30 minimum sunscreen
- Avoid prescription retinol (topical vitamin A) or Hydroquinone (whitening creams)
- You must not have had any chemical peels or laser resurfacing treatments in the previous week
Should I expect any side effects?
There may be some itching, swelling, blisters and redness at the site of the treatment
How often will I need treatment?
The number of treatments you require may vary depending on the length of time that a person has had rosacea and upon the severity of the rosacea. It is common to require 2-5 treatments to clear most redness.
What should I expect post-treatment?
After laser treatment, the treated skin may be raw, swollen and itchy. Your treating practitioner will apply a sunscreen. To relieve pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever and apply ice packs. Your treating practitioner will explain how to care for your skin and give you written instructions
Further Information
Rosacea & Redness Factsheet
This leaflet has been written to help you understand more about rosacea.
Questions for your Dermatologist
A practical checklist of questions for your dermatologist during and after treatment.