Introduction
Rosacea, also known as rosacea acne, primarily affects the facial skin, particularly the central region of the face, especially the nose. This chronic skin condition is more prevalent among individuals with lighter skin tones. Rosacea results in persistent redness, papules, pustules, and, in severe cases, it can lead to disfiguring skin damage. Due to the extended duration and the potential for recurrence or exacerbation, rosacea can have a significant psychological impact.
Symptoms of Rosacea
Rosacea primarily affects the tip and wings of the nose but can also occur on the cheeks, forehead, and chin. Symptoms include redness, papules, pustules, and thickened skin, which correspond to different stages of the condition:
Early-Stage Rosacea
Prolonged redness on the cheeks and nose, potentially accompanied by stinging sensations, with visible blood vessels beneath the skin.
Mid-Stage Rosacea
In addition to the earlier redness, papules, pustules, and even nodules appear. If left untreated, this stage can persist for an extended period.
Late-Stage Rosacea
Also known as rhinophyma, this is an extremely severe skin condition characterized by prominent dilated blood vessels. The skin thickens, becoming uneven and bumpy, with swelling of the nasal wings resembling a bulbous nose.
In addition, rosacea can also affect the eyes, leading to conditions such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and keratitis, with symptoms like itching, a foreign body sensation in the eyes, and redness.
Cause
Rosacea is a common condition, primarily affecting people with lighter skin tones. Individuals of Celtic and Northern European ancestry appear to be at higher risk. However, the medical community has not reached a definitive conclusion on the exact causes of rosacea. Several potential factors include abnormalities in the immune system, facial mite microorganisms, UV damage, psychological stress, vascular dysfunction, and external stimuli. Additionally, some factors can exacerbate rosacea, such as hot weather, hot beverages, spicy foods, sun exposure, alcohol, smoking, intense physical activity, and irritants in skincare products or medications.
Treatments
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
IPL treatment is particularly effective for rosacea. When IPL energy is applied to the treatment area, blood haemoglobin and oxygenated haemoglobin absorb the light and generate heat. This heat can cause the dilation of blood vessels, reducing the redness of the skin. It is an effective method for improving the symptoms of rosacea.
Laser Treatment
Laser treatment employs lasers with specific wavelengths to selectively target blood haemoglobin within blood vessels. This process causes blood haemoglobin to coagulate, leading to the destruction of the blood vessels. Consequently, this minimizes the appearance of superficial blood vessels, resulting in an improvement in rosacea symptoms.
Visit us to explore advanced treatments for rosacea and embark on a journey towards healthier, more confident skin.