Rosacea ( pronounced "roh-ZAY-sha ") is a common and potentially life-disruptive disorder. It is characterized by facial flushing and with time the gradual development of persistent facial redness and spider-like blood vessels. It is often punctuated by episodes of inflammatory papules (bumps), pustules (pimples), and swelling.
Although the papulo-pustular elements usually respond to medium or long-term antibiotic therapy, the vascular elements are frequently persistent. Their severity can result in considerable cosmetic embarrassment. Management for many people often includes avoidance of popular foods and alcohol as well as cosmetic camouflage, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions (click question for answer)
Yes. Rosacea is a medical problem and you will be evaluated by a board-certified physician to establish your candidacy for a particular treatment including laser therapy.
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No. Lasers are a treatment and will help diminish or eliminate signs and symptoms. This is a chronic condition that usually requires long-term preventive measures with avoidance of lifestyle and environmental factors that trigger flare-up
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It removes visible blood vessels or reduces extensive redness. Vascular lasers emit wavelengths of light that target tiny blood vessels just under the skin. Heat from the laser's energy builds in the vessels, causing them to disintegrate. Vascular lasers may also be used to help retard the buildup of excess tissue, and in severe cases a CO2 laser may be used to remove unwanted tissue and reshape the nose. New laser technology has been developed to minimize bruising, and recently developed devices called intense pulsed light sources mimic lasers but generate multiple wavelengths to treat a broader spectrum of tissue.
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There may be some slight redness, bruising, and/or swelling but this lasts only a day or so. Specific wavelengths of light are well absorbed by the hemoglobin or red blood cells. Short pulses target only the blood vessels, reducing the chance of damage to surrounding facial tissue.
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Yes. Oral and topical antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat the signs (bumps and pimples). On occasion these will be prescribed in conjunction with the laser therapy. Other medications may also help with the symptoms.
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