Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterised by redness, flushing, visible blood vessels, and papules or pustules on the face. It affects both men and women, typically those aged 30 to 50, with fair skin. Rosacea can cause emotional distress and affect one’s self-esteem and quality of life.

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is believed to be linked to genetics, environmental factors, and abnormal immune reactions. Triggers exacerbating rosacea include sun exposure, stress, hot weather, spicy foods, alcohol, and certain medications. At Tracey Bell clinics, we can help with several aesthetic treatments to help manage rosacea. These include:

• Topical medications – treatments such as metronidazole, azelaic acid or brimonidine, can reduce redness and inflammation associated with rosacea

• Oral antibiotics – certain antibiotics can help control inflammation and reduce the severity of the papules and pustules associated with rosacea

• Laser and light-based therapies – various therapies including pulsed dye lasers, intense pulsed light (IPL) and fractional lasers can reduce redness, shrink visible blood vessels and improve skin texture

• Chemical peels – salicylic acid or glycolic acid peels can help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of papules and pustules

• Microneedling – can help stimulate collagen production, improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of visible blood vessels

• Dermabrasion – involves using a rotating device to remove the top layer of skin, which can improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of papules and pustules

It’s important to note that while these treatments can help manage rosacea, there is currently no cure for the condition. Instead, aesthetic medicine treatments should be used with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding triggers and gentle skincare products, to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.