4 types of treatment for rosacea

The specialists at Braun Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center are trained to treat thousands of conditions affecting the skin, hair, and nails – including rosacea. This condition is most frequently characterized by inflammation, facial flushing, pimple-like breakouts, and broken capillaries. While there is no cure for rosacea, the interventions recommended by our professionals can reduce flare-ups and prevent complications such as thickening of the affected skin. We have listed four treatments available at our offices in Washington, D.C., and Alexandria, Virginia, below. 

1 – Topical products applied directly to the skin

The first line of defense for mild to moderate rosacea may be a medicated cream, gel, ointment, lotion, or foam prescribed by one of our specialists. Some of these products work well by narrowing the blood vessels to improve the appearance of flushing and red discoloration. Other products formulated with ingredients like azelaic acid and ivermectin are appropriate for inflammation associated with acne-like breakouts. 

2 – Systemic/oral medications 

When topical products are not enough, we may prescribe medications like tetracycline antibiotics doxycycline and minocycline to reduce inflammation and to prevent skin thickening. These medications are taken as a pill and work systemically throughout the body. For more severe cases, retinoids like isotretinoin may be prescribed to fight inflammation by shrinking the oil-producing sebaceous glands. These drugs are typically prescribed at doses that are strong enough to reduce inflammation but low enough not to kill bacteria or cause antibiotic resistance. 

3 – In-office procedures

Light-based treatments such as lasers and Intense Pulsed Light work by targeting the red pigment (hemoglobin) in the broken capillaries and vessels. As light energy is absorbed and converted to heat, it damages the targeted blood vessels. These vessels are safely broken down and reabsorbed. As this natural process occurs, redness and inflammation appear less noticeable.

4 – Self-care

To manage rosacea and prevent flare-ups, skin care is essential. Stick to gentle, fragrance-free cleansers. Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen. Understand your triggers. Common ones include excessive heat, stress, spicy foods, and alcohol. Knowing your personal triggers for flare-ups can help you limit or avoid them and keep your symptoms under control. 

Many of the above treatments are often combined. Combination treatment can be beneficial for patients with more severe rosacea, as well as for those with a variety of different symptoms – such as visible veins, bumps that resemble pimples, and redness. Since there are four main types of rosacea, symptoms can range from mild to severe. The treatment begins with an evaluation of your skin. Only then can our specialists at Braun Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center recommend the best single therapy or combination treatment that is right for you. Call our offices in Washington, DC 202-816-7557 or Alexandria, VA 571-449-2555 to schedule a consultation today.