5 Dermatologist Recommended Rosacea Treatments to Ease Symptoms

Rosacea: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Rosacea Treatments for Mild Symptoms

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes inflammation, redness, and a rash on the nose and cheeks. It may also affect the eyes. Rosacea symptoms usually come and go and may worsen with stress, sun exposure, and other factors.

Topical Medications

For mild symptoms, rosacea skin care often includes topical medications applied directly to the skin. Prescription topical medications include:

• Mirvaso (brimonidine gel) and Rhofade (oxymetazoline cream): Fades redness by narrowing the blood vessels to the skin
• Finacea (azelaic acid foam or gel): Reduces acne breakouts associated with rosacea
• Epsolay (encapsulated benzoyl peroxide cream 5%): Treats acne-like bumps associated with rosacea
• Soolantra (ivermectin cream): Reduces inflammation and treats red bumps
• Vitazol (metronidazole cream, gel, or lotion): Antibiotic cream that reduces red bumps, bacteria, and redness
• Amzeeq (minocycline foam): Antibiotic foam that treats red bumps and pustules associated with rosacea and inflammation
• Plexion (sulfacetamide and sulfur lotion): Combination of medication and sulfur that reduces inflammation and has antibacterial properties

Laser Therapy

Laser and light-based therapies use light to shrink the blood vessels in the face, making them less noticeable over time. This is a common treatment for skin redness caused by rosacea.

For Severe Symptoms

Severe rosacea symptoms may include intense redness and visible blood vessels that do not improve with topical treatments. Other symptoms may include skin thickening and eye irritation.

Oral Medications

When topical treatments are ineffective, your dermatologist may recommend oral medications to reduce your symptoms and prevent complications.

• Oracea (doxycycline): Oral antibiotic taken to reduce inflammation and acne
• Absorica (isotretinoin): Oral retinoid medication that treats severe acne and prevents skin thickening

Conclusion

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that requires ongoing management and treatment. By understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, individuals with rosacea can work with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan that alleviates their symptoms and improves their quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What are the common symptoms of rosacea?
A: Common symptoms of rosacea include facial redness, acne-like bumps, and visible blood vessels.

Q: What are the common causes of rosacea?
A: Common causes of rosacea include genetics, environmental factors, and hormonal fluctuations.

Q: What are the treatment options for rosacea?
A: Treatment options for rosacea include topical creams, oral medications, and laser therapy.

Q: Can rosacea be cured?
A: No, rosacea is a chronic condition that cannot be cured, but it can be managed and treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes.