Balshi Blog

Ways You Could Reduce Rosacea With Laser Treatments

Rosacea could be defined by a multitude of symptoms: red skin, mild acne, or a “rosy check” complexion. A chronic condition of the skin, normally of the face but also may be found on the neck, scalp, back, chest, and ears. 

Symptoms vary seasonally and the presence of capillaries may worsen if left untreated. Bumpiness and severe redness may flare up and worsen.

There are several types of rosacea. The condition is a general consensus of symptoms that are characterized by the skin looking red and flushed like a sunburn. It often comes and goes but can be triggered by seasons, heat, stress, and consumption of foods or drinks like coffee. Talking to your healthcare provider to determine your conditions and the type of rosacea can help treat your skin properly.

There are four types of rosacea:

  • Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea – this is determined by the consistency of redness on the face. Symptoms may become worse or permanent if not treated. Flare-ups and redness may make blood vessels become enlarged and visible.
  • Papulopustular Rosacea – Similar to or referred as “adult acne”, papulopustular rosacea is associated with “whitehead” pustules. Pus-filled blemishes, or red and swollen bumps which appear on the chin, cheeks, or forehead. This can take a long time to go away and can appear on areas of the skin like scalp.
  • Phymatous Rosacea – this type of rosacea is when the skin thickens and causes it to scar, be discolored or swollen and bumpy. This can affect the nose pretty commonly and is referred to as “bulbous nose”. This is very common more in men than women.
  • Ocular Rosacea – Ocular rosacea affects the eyes. It can cause a burning sensation or irritation. This can cause the eyes to be persistently sensitive and dry. It may even result in cysts that form on the eyelids.

Triggers

There are all types of skin, conditions, symptoms, and triggers, depending on the severity of rosacea. There are several rosacea and broken capillary trigger factors that may affect the level of symptoms a person may experience:

  • Medications
  • Hormones – puberty, menopause, pregnancy
  • Obesity
  • Spicy foods
  • Alcohol
  • Caffeine
  • Emotional changes – anger, stress, embarrassment
  • Weather and temperature fluctuations 
  • Hot locations like tubs and saunas
  • Sun damage or sunlight

Lasers Give Hope For Rosacea Patients

Rosacea affects over 16 million Americans, and although isn’t dangerous, does affect self-confidence when symptoms are visible. Now there’s a way to treat rosacea that can help certain aspects of rosacea. Dermatologists have now begun to use laser and light therapies to treat these pesky symptoms. 

Blood absorbs light from the laser wavelengths which helps destroy capillaries. This collapses the visible tiny blood vessels that contribute to redness in the skin. The most common laser is the pulsed dye laser or PDL laser

This typically requires multiple treatments depending on skin types and severity of the rosacea symptoms. Studies show that 40-60% of people saw improvements in symptoms after the second treatment. Redness can be decreased by 50% after the second laser treatment as well as reported reductions in itching, burning, swelling, flushing, and sensitivity. 

The most common laser used for thick skin or “bulbous nose” is the CO2 laser. It can eliminate extra tissues which allows your dermatologist to sculpt the nose.

There are a lot of topical creams for rosacea symptoms. However, studies show that there is a better outcome with laser or light treatments in the long run. These benefits are long lasting, months up to years of maintaining clear skin after treatment. And improved quality of life.

Benefits of Laser Light Treatments

  • Even skin tones/texture
  • Less redness
  • Acne condition
  • Removal of fine lines
  • Younger looking skin

Side effects of laser treatment are normally minimal. Redness, sore, or swollen is typical a day after treatment. There are always risks for side effects, talk to your dermatologist to see if you’re a candidate for laser treatment for rosacea. Treatment eventually gives relief to patients with rosacea and although this isn’t a guarantee if it will work for you, it can help you look better and feel better about your skin. 

Are The Treatments Painful?

To reduce discomfort, a blast of chilled air before the laser treatment helps makes the treatment more bearable. Treatments are described to feel similar to a pinch or a rubber band snapping over your skin. 

Home Remedies

There are lasers advertised for home use that are offered as miracle alternatives to laser treatments like the pulsed dye laser. Documented studies show this isn’t nearly as effective and leave you to possibly suffer considerable risks of misuse. Seeking advice and treatment from a medical professional is highly recommended. 

There isn’t a cure for rosacea, but with laser treatment you may find yourself impressed with the results and the low maintenance factor in comparison with home remedies. With the help of a licensed professional you can get your self-confidence back little by little.

Call Balshi Dermatology In Delray Beach, Florida For Laser Rosacea Treatments

Do you suffer from Rosacea? Have you considered laser or light treatments? For any questions to learn more on how to better treat your skin flaws, contact a board-certified dermatologist in Delray Beach, contact Balshi Dermatology at (561) 272-6000 or send us a message on our Contact Page to set up your appointment.