Rosacea is a fairly common skin concern, usually visible as combinations of redness, broken blood vessels, blemishes, and changes in skin texture. For the men and women suffering from the condition, rosacea can be a frustrating ailment. If you have rosacea, the Worcester, Massachusetts practice of Dr. Seth Kates and Dr. David Simkin can offer compassionate care and a variety of treatment options.
To learn more about your options for rosacea treatment, request a consultation online or call Worcester Dermatology Associates at 508-754-3823 in Worcester or 978-256-4151 in Chelmsford.
Cause of Rosacea
The cause of rosacea is unknown. Sometimes alcoholic beverages, spicy foods, and hot beverages may exacerbate rosacea. However, these are only aggravating factors and do not cause rosacea. Sun exposure frequently aggravates rosacea and can cause worsening of signs of the condition over time.
Rosacea is especially noticeable on the nose, mid-forehead, and chin. The blemishes of rosacea resemble the acne blemishes of teenagers; in fact, years ago, rosacea used to be called “acne rosacea.” Although rosacea is generally a skin condition, sometimes eye irritation can occur.
Treatment
Once it develops, rosacea is generally a lifelong condition. Treatments ease the condition, but do not cure it. Rosacea removal is generally treated with topical antibiotics and antibacterial products, as well as oral antibiotics. Unlike adolescent acne, the response to oral antibiotics is frequently quick (3 to 6 weeks) and it is not uncommon for patients to stay on topical treatments and to use oral medications only for flares. Sun protection is always recommended.
Vascular lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL) are extremely effective for treating the broken blood vessels associated with this condition. In our office, we use a laser that does not cause bruising, is minimally uncomfortable, extremely effective, and relatively inexpensive. During your consultation, feel free to ask us about other cosmetic dermatology treatments such as laser skin resurfacing or BOTOX® Cosmetic.
Changes in skin texture, especially of the nose, that are extreme in nature can also be corrected with surgical procedures. Eye involvement of rosacea generally requires oral antibiotics.
