Rosacea is a chronic and potentially life-disruptive disorder primarily of the facial skin, often characterized by flare-ups and remissions. It often begins after the age of 30, as a redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead that may come and go. In some cases, rosacea may also occur on the neck, chest, scalp or ears. Over time, the redness tends to become ruddier and more persistent, and visible blood vessels may appear. Left untreated, bumps and pimples often develop, and in severe cases the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excess tissue.
This is the condition, called rhinophyma (pronounced "rhi-no-FY-muh") that gave the late comedian W.C. Fields his trademark bulbous nose. In many rosacea patients, the eyes are also affected, feeling irritated and appearing watery or bloodshot.
Although rosacea can affect all segments of the population, people with fair skin who tend to flush or blush easily are believed to be at greatest risk. The disease is more frequently diagnosed in women, but more severe symptoms tend to be seen in men -- perhaps because they often delay seeking medical help until the disorder reaches advanced stages.
While there is no cure for rosacea and the cause is unknown, treatments are available to control or reverse its signs and symptoms. With Southern Surgical Arts, you have options that include:
VBeam
The VBeam is a Pulsed Dye Laser that delivers an intense but gentle burst of light into selectively targeted areas of the skin. The light is absorbed by specific blood vessels or melanin pigmented areas in the dermis depending on the condition being treated. The VBeam helps reduce redness, broken vessels on the skin and inflammation.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Broadband Light (BBL)
In its simplest form, IPL is a series of short flashes of very bright light. IPL and BBL use short, safe bursts of light emitted from a flash-lamp to treat specific skin conditions. Our IPL and BBL systems carefully control both the amount of light and the speed of its delivery to your specific skin condition. The IPL and BBL help reduce redness, broken vessels on the skin and inflammation.
At-Home Skincare products
Obagi:
- Rosaclear – Helps rosacea patients achieve a clearer, calmer, more balanced-looking complexion
Neocutis:
- Peche – Manage skin redness (blotchiness, blemishes & improves skin tone)
Skinceuticals:
- Phyto-Corrective – Decreases redness, soothes sensitive skin
Related Blog Articles:
Q&A: How Do Chemcial Peels Affect Rosacea
Dr. Oz and The Doctors feature the Sciton laser used at Southern Surgical Arts
