Rosacea is a chronic skin condition, usually localized to the middle of the face, (nose, cheeks, forehead, around the eyes, on the chin). This condition can cause red patches, prominent blood vessels, lines and small pimples on the face, as well as burning and irritation in the eyes and eye lids. The most common symptoms are redness of the face or cheeks, increased tendency to blush or flush easily, increased broken capillaries of the face, and acne-like skin eruptions.
Flare ups of rosacea are caused by triggers that cause facial flushing, which is due to dilation of facial blood vessels. Common triggers include sun, exercise, hot weather, nicotine, caffeine, and alcohol. While the exact cause of rosacea is unknown, many people with this skin condition have been found to have a family history of rosacea. One theory is that rosacea may be a result of highly reactive blood vessels combined with inflammation and infection.
How does the treatment work?
While topical creams may help control some of the symptoms of rosacea, laser treatments are the best way to treat the condition and improve your appearance. Laser treatment uses brief pulses of high-energy light that is absorbed into the skin. The light is changed into heat energy and the heat then destroys thin sections of skin, layer by layer. As the treated area heals, new skin grows to replace the damaged skin that was removed during the laser treatment.
What results can be expected?
Effects are cumulative. After the first treatment, you may see improvements in broken capillaries, small facial veins, and some pigmented areas within a few days. Other improvements may be more subtle and take one to three months. With each subsequent treatment, subtle changes will accumulate until you have achieved the improvement you desire.
Is the treatment painful?
Most patients experience little discomfort. The pulses from the laser may sting or burn slightly, or you may feel a snapping sensation against your skin. A topical anesthetic may be applied to sensitive skin. To further reduce discomfort, our laser utilizes a special cooling system that lowers the temperature of the skin at the treatment site before, during and after laser exposure.
What should be expected after treatment?
Immediately after treatment you may experience some redness and slight swelling and/or slight darkening of pigmented areas. The redness and swelling usually dissipate within one to three days; however, darkened pigmentation may persist, and peel lightly for up to one week. It is extremely important to apply a moisturizer with SPF30 sunblock and avoid sun exposure on a daily basis to prevent additional sun damage.
How long does the treatment take?
The treatment takes approximately 30-60 minutes, depending on the area to be treated. Prescribed topical anesthetic should be applied 30-60 minutes prior to the treatment time if needed.
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