rosacea correction

Rosacea is a common, chronic skin condition that affects millions of Americans, many of whom are unaware that they have the condition. Rosacea appears on the skin of the face as areas of redness and small, pus-filled bumps similar to acne, and can affect a patient’s confidence and self-esteem as a result. Although rosacea is a chronic condition that cannot be cured, there are treatments available to relieve its symptoms and prevent flare ups, allowing patients to avoid embarrassment from the appearance of their skin.

cause of rosacea

While the specific cause of rosacea is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. Symptoms can also be triggered by certain factors, including:

Rosacea can affect anyone, but it is most common in fair-skinned adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years old. Women are more frequently affected by this condition than men, and it is often associated with menopause. When diagnosing rosacea, Dr. Victor will consider your personal and medical history, as well as perform a physical examination of the skin.

symptoms of rosacea

Patients with rosacea may experience:

Symptoms most commonly appear on the nose, cheeks, mouth and forehead. Some patients may also experience thickened skin, raised red patches, facial swelling and symptoms spreading to the neck, chest, scalp or ears. The symptoms of rosacea can come and go, as this condition is cyclical for most patients, meaning that symptoms will flare up for a period of weeks to months and then lessen for a while.

laser treatment for rosacea correction

Laser treatments are safe, effective procedures that require little to no downtime and allow patients to easily achieve the result they desire of vastly improved skin. Laser treatments use focused beams of light to heat and destroy old, damaged skin cells while stimulating the growth of new cells and collagen production.

Lasers can be used to effectively treat the redness on the face that often develops as a result of rosacea.  Dr. Victor uses the technologically advanced XPL laser to target the damaged tissue, diminishing redness and improving the overall appearance of the skin. This laser system successfully reduces redness and areas of pigmentation.  The XPL laser is a unique system that allows lower levels of energy to be employed, which results in less pain for the patient as well as more rapid healing.

The procedure is performed in Dr. Victor’s office. Topical anesthesia may be applied, but the majority of patients find it is not necessary. To soothe the skin during treatment, a cooling device within the laser system gently circulates air to the affected area.  Most patients report only mild discomfort during the procedure, and it is tolerated well.  The entire treatment session typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes to perform, depending on the size of the area requiring treatment.

results of laser rosacea correction

Patients who undergo a laser rosacea correction treatment usually have noticeably improved skin after three to four sessions.  There is very little to no downtime necessary, so patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately following treatment.  The number of sessions required will vary depending on several factors.  Most patients receive between four and six treatments to thoroughly correct their rosacea issues, with an interval of approximately three to six weeks between sessions.

side effects of laser rosacea correction

While a laser procedure for rosacea correction is considered a very safe, low risk form of skin treatment, there are a few mild side effects reported by some patients.  These temporary, generally short-lived side effects may include skin redness or a darkening of the skin similar to a tan at the treatment site.  Dr. Victor will discuss the individual risks of this procedure with you during your consultation.

---