Rosacea affects over 16 million Americans. In general, it’s a skin condition characterized by noticeable facial redness, making you feel self-conscious about your appearance, particularly in professional and social situations.
If you present with the signs of rosacea, contact the staff of rosacea experts at Pima Dermatology. Our board-certified dermatologists and staff understand the effect that rosacea can have on you and the subsequent concerns that you may have. We can help manage it with a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals that restores your self-esteem.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea (roh-ZAY-sha) affects all types of skin, although lighter-skinned people seem to be at a greater risk. And while it’s more common in women, men tend to have the more severe rosacea symptoms. Bulbous Nose (Rhinophyma) is a skin disorder characterized by a large, red, bumpy and/or bulbous nose.
Rosacea presents as the inclination to blush or flush easily. Often referred to as a type of “adult acne,” rosacea has characteristics that include general facial redness, prominent blood vessels, and bumps. The condition can evolve into chronic redness that can develop on the following parts of the body:
- Nose
- Chin
- Cheeks
- Forehead
- Ears
- Neck
- Scalp
- Chest
Causes and Triggers
Unfortunately, the exact causes of rosacea are not yet fully understood. It’s believed that possible causes include genetics, certain microbes, problem blood vessels, immune or nervous system irregularities, and rosacea mites.
Common rosacea triggers are sunshine, alcohol, caffeine, hot drinks, and/or spicy foods. It is best to avoid exposure to known triggers.
Are You a Candidate for Rosacea Treatment?
If you have the following symptoms of rosacea, you’re probably a good candidate for professional dermatologic treatment.
- Flushing or blushing
- Persistent redness
- Bumps, pimples, and/or papules
- Prominent blood vessels
Rosacea can evolve into an advanced case called rhinophyma, which is characterized by a large, bulbous appearance of the nose.
If you have one or more of these symptoms, schedule an appointment to see a trained, experienced dermatologist at Pima Dermatology in Tucson.
Types of Treatment
As with most skin conditions about which no specific causes are known, there is, unfortunately, no complete cure for rosacea. Even if a treatment plan successfully causes the symptoms to disappear, rosacea can develop again – even if you avoid your triggers.
However, it can be managed with various types of treatment that may restore your normal appearance and self-esteem. At Pima Dermatology we have the expertise and training to tailor treatment to fit the unique needs of your condition because symptoms can differ greatly from patient to patient.
Oral and Topical Medications
Oral medications can help reduce the bumps and pimples caused by rosacea. These include Tetracycline, Minocycline, and Doxycycline. Topical medications we provide to minimize bumps as well and may include:<
- Metrogel, Metrolotion, and Noritate
- Finacea gel
- Sulfur products like Rosac, Clenia, and Rosula
- Antibiotics like Clindamycin, Benzoyl Peroxide
- Soolantra® cream
Laser and Light Treatments
For more severe cases or symptoms which are predominantly redness, such as prominent veins, severe redness, or nose disfigurement, Pima Dermatology also offers various types of laser and light treatments, including:
Lasers – green or yellow lasers for visible blood vessels and blushing/flushing, including:
- The powerful Cutera Excel V
- The Candela VBeam Perfecta Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL)
Starlux Intense Pulse Light (IPL) – for improvement of visible vessels and blushing
Photodynamic Therapy – light therapy combined with photosensitizing agent Levulan to shrink enlarged or overactive oil glands
Electrosurgery and/or CO2 Laser – helps reshape the nose if you suffer from Bulbous Nose (Rhinophyma)
Furthermore, a skin care routine that includes gentle, non-abrasive cleansers and cloths, as well as avoidance of sun exposure, can help minimize suffering.
Benefits of Getting Rosacea Treatment at Pima Dermatology
At Pima Dermatology, we not only have the training, experience, and treatments to help manage your rosacea, but we also offer the following tips to help you manage it yourself:
- Avoid your known triggers
- Protect yourself from the sun, including wearing hats and SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
- Avoid extreme temperatures
- Refrain from rubbing, scrubbing or aggressively massaging your face
- Steer clear of facial products with alcohol
To Find Out More about Rosacea Treatment Options, Contact Pima Dermatology
The experts at Pima Dermatology have the solutions to manage your rosacea. We understand the impact it can have on your life, so schedule a consultation with us today. Contact us online or call our practice in Tucson.
Next, read about sclerotherapy.
