Even if you’re already treating your rosacea, the right skin care can make a noticeable difference.

A rosacea friendly skin care routine can:

• Help your skin feel more comfortable
• Improve the results you see from treatment
• Boost your skin’s overall health
• Reduce rosacea flare-ups

To help patients who have rosacea with skin care, dermatologists offer these tips:

1. Cleanse your face twice a day — very gently. According to dermatologist Mark Dahl, MD, patients who have rosacea often don’t wash rosacea-prone skin enough. That’s understandable if your skin already feels irritated.
   
   
   
   

   Cleansing when you wake up and before you go to bed helps remove oil and dirt that can irritate your skin.

   

   To cleanse without further irritating your skin, dermatologists recommend that you:

• Choose a mild, rosacea friendly cleanser (not soap).
• Apply the cleanser gently with your fingertips, using a circular motion.
• Rinse off the cleanser with lukewarm water, using only your fingertips. You want to thoroughly remove the cleanser. If some of the cleanser stays on your skin, it can cause irritation.
• Pat your face gently with a clean, cotton towel.

2. Moisturize every day. Whether rosacea makes your skin dry or oily, it’s important to moisturize. Moisturizing helps hydrate your skin by trapping water in your skin. This can reduce irritation and make your skin feel more comfortable.
   
   
   
   Studies show that applying a rosacea friendly moisturizer or barrier repair cream can also improve the results you see from treatment.
   
   
   
   In one small study, patients applied a rosacea treatment (metronidazole gel) to their face twice a day. They also applied a gentle, non-irritating moisturizing cream twice a day to one side of their face.
   
   
   
   After 15 days, the moisturized side of their face had less dryness, peeling, and roughness. It also felt more comfortable. Other studies have found similar results.

2. Protect your skin from the sun year round. The sun can worsen rosacea. This is so common that it’s actually one of the most frequent causes of a rosacea flare-up. Even people with dark skin can have a rosacea flare-up after being outdoors in the sun.
   
   
   
   To reduce rosacea flare-ups caused by the sun, dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen. To protect your skin, apply a sunscreen to your face every day before going outdoors. Even on cloudy days, it helps to apply sunscreen.

4. Choose rosacea friendly skin care products. When you have rosacea, many skin care products and cosmetics can irritate your skin. While gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and sun protection can help reduce this sensitivity, you also want to choose your skin care products and makeup carefully.
   
   
   
   When shopping for products, dermatologists recommend that you read the list of ingredients before you buy. To reduce the likelihood of a buying a product that will irritate your skin, you want to avoid anything that contains:

• Alcohol
• Camphor
• Fragrance
• Glycolic acid
• Lactic acid
• Menthol
• Sodium laurel sulfate (often found in shampoos and toothpaste)
• Urea

To reduce the chance of a product irritating your skin, choose fragrance-free (rather than unscented) products.

To reduce irritation, it’s also best to:

• Choose a cream instead of a lotion or gel
• Never use an astringent or toner

5. Test skin care products and makeup before applying them to your face. If you’ve never tried a product or it seems that everything you apply to your face stings, testing can help. To test a product, dab a small amount near (but not on) your rosacea-prone skin. If it irritates your skin (burning, stinging, etc.) within 72 hours, you know not to use it.

5. Be gentle with your skin. Anything that irritates your skin can worsen rosacea. To prevent this, you want to avoid rubbing or scrubbing your face. That means no washcloths, facial sponges, or exfoliating.

Making these tips a part of your skin care routine can help you take better care of your rosacea-prone skin.

If you have trouble finding skin care products or makeup that doesn’t irritate your skin, a dermatologist can assist you. A dermatologist can examine your skin and recommend products for your skin’s specific needs.

References

American Academy of Dermatology. “Proper skin care lays the foundation for successful acne and rosacea treatment.” News release issued August 1, 2013. Last accessed July 31, 2017.

Bowers J. “Unlocking the mysteries of rosacea.” Dermatol World. 2013;23(8):18-22.

Del Rosso JQ, Thiboutot D, et al. “Consensus recommendations from the American Acne & Rosacea Society on the management of rosacea, part 1: A status report on the disease state, general measures, and adjunctive skin care.” Cutis. 2013;92(5):234-40.

Pelle MT, Crawford GH, et al. “Rosacea: II. Therapy.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:499-512.

Two AM, Wu W, et al. “Rosacea: part II. Topical and systemic therapies in the treatment of rosacea.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;72(5):761-70.

Zip C. “The role of skin care in optimizing treatment of acne and rosacea.” Skin Therapy Lett. 2017;22(3):5-7.

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Were you recently diagnosed with rosacea? If so, you may be wondering what to do next. Here are 8 tips that dermatologist give their patients with rosacea to help them control the condition and feel more comfortable.

1. Pay attention to your eyes. If you do nothing else, do this! You want to watch for signs of irritated or red eyes. If you notice any irritation or other eye problems, call your dermatologist or eye doctor right away.
   
   
   
   This is important because more than half the people who have rosacea develop an eye problem at some point. Treating eye problems caused by rosacea can prevent you from developing problems with your eyesight.

1. Learn what triggers your rosacea. Many everyday occurrences, such as becoming overheated or feeling stressed, can cause rosacea to flare. Anything that causes rosacea to flare is called a trigger.
   
   
   
   While there are many rosacea triggers, what triggers one person’s rosacea may not be a trigger for you. It’s important to learn what triggers your rosacea. Avoiding your triggers can help you avoid flare-ups.
   
   
   
   You’ll find a step-by-step guide that can help you discover your triggers at:

1. Be gentle with your skin. Rosacea can make your skin extremely sensitive. Your skin can feel uncomfortable if you wash your face with a washcloth, use skin care products that contain fragrance or astringents, or even go outdoors without applying a sunscreen.
   
   
   
   You can find out how to care for your rosacea-prone skin at:

1. Protect your skin from the sun. Just a few minutes in the sun can cause your rosacea to flare. Protecting your skin from the sun can prevent these flare-ups. You can learn how to protect your skin from the sun at:

1. Select your makeup carefully. Sometimes, makeup can cause rosacea to flare. You can find out how to choose rosacea friendly makeup at:. Scroll down to “Use rosacea friendly makeup.”

1. Understand that flare-ups can happen and are often unexpected. Even when you treat your rosacea and do everything you can to avoid your triggers, rosacea can flare unexpectedly.
   
   
   
   A flare-up tends to be more manageable when you keep calm (stress can be a trigger) and follow your dermatologist’s advice for treating a flare-up.

1. Team up with a board-certified dermatologist to treat your rosacea. Treating rosacea can prevent it from worsening. Treatment can also help calm a flare-up.
   
   
   
   By seeing a board-certified dermatologist about your rosacea, you can receive expert care. When a dermatologist is board-certified, you’ll see the letters FAAD after the doctor’s name.

1. Jot down questions to ask during your next dermatology appointment. Between appointments, questions about rosacea may come to mind. If they do, jot them down so that you can ask them during your next dermatology appointment.
   
   
   
   The more expert advice you have, the better you’ll be able to manage your rosacea.

A board-certified dermatologist is a rosacea expert

Rosacea is one of the most common conditions that dermatologists treat.

When you see a board-certified dermatologist, you know you’re seeing a doctor who has received specialized training in how to diagnose and treat rosacea.

Board-certified dermatologists are also the scientists who conduct many of the studies that help us learn more about this condition.

You can find a board-certified dermatologist by going to:

Additional related information

Image: Getty Images

References

Crawford GH, Pelle MT, et al. “Rosacea: I. Etiology, pathogenesis, and subtype classification.” J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:327-41.)

Pelle MT. “Rosacea.” In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine (seventh edition). McGraw Hill Medical, New York, 2008: 703-9.

Pelle MT, Glen H. Crawford GH, et al. “Rosacea: II. Therapy.” J Am Acad Dermatol 2004;51:499-512.

Zip C. “The role of skin care in optimizing treatment of acne and rosacea.” Skin Therapy Lett. 2017;22(3):5-7.

The post 8 things to know if you’re diagnosed with rosacea appeared first on ÁůľĹÉ«ĚĂ.

Research suggests that drinking alcohol may increase a person’s risk of getting rosacea.

A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology concluded that the women who drank alcohol had a higher risk of developing rosacea than the women who didn’t drink. In this study, the researchers found that the:

• Risk of developing rosacea increased with the amount of alcohol drank
• Women who drank white wine or hard liquor had a greater risk of developing rosacea than the other women in this study

Researchers reached these conclusions after analyzing data collected from 82,737 women over a 14-year period.

Two earlier studies also found a connection between drinking alcohol and developing rosacea. In one study, the researchers looked at twins. Studying twins can help scientists figure out if a disease is caused by a person’s genes or behaviors, such as drinking, smoking, or spending time in the sun.

In this study, researchers collected data from 275 pairs of twins. After studying the data, the researchers concluded that drinking slightly increased a person’s risk of getting rosacea.

The second study also found a connection between drinking and rosacea. In this study, researchers compared data from 60,042 patients who had rosacea with 60,042 patients who did not have rosacea. Again, drinking slightly increased the risk of getting rosacea.

More studies required

While these studies found that drinking alcohol may increase a person’s risk of developing rosacea, more studies are needed to know for certain whether drinking can cause rosacea. We don’t know why drinking may increase the risk of getting rosacea. We also want to learn why certain types of alcohol seem to increase the risk of getting rosacea.

People mistakenly believe anyone with a red face drinks heavily

While researchers have found that drinking alcohol may increase the risk of getting rosacea, it’s important to know that:

• People who never drink alcohol can get rosacea
• Alcoholism doesn’t cause rosacea
• Rosacea doesn’t mean the person has a drinking problem

Too often, people mistakenly believe that anyone who has a red face drinks too much, according to the National Rosacea Society (NRS). This misperception may cause people who have rosacea to worry that others will think they have a drinking problem.

After surveying people with rosacea, the NRS reports that nearly two-thirds of them say they “have avoided situations because they felt uncomfortable or embarrassed” when they had a red face.

Too embarrassed to see a dermatologist?

If having a red face leaves you feeling embarrassed, it’s important to keep in mind that people who never drink get rosacea.

Dermatologists encourage anyone who has a permanently red face or long-lasting flushing to see a dermatologist. Rosacea could be causing the redness. Other conditions can also cause a red face. A dermatologist can give you an accurate diagnosis.

If you have rosacea, treatment can help lessen the redness and prevent rosacea from worsening. That can help you feel more comfortable and less embarrassed.

Images: Getty Images

References

Aldrich N, Gerstenblith M, et al. “Genetic vs environmental factors that correlate with rosacea: A cohort-based survey of twins.” JAMA Dermatol. 2015;151(11):1213-9.

American Academy of Dermatology, “.” News release issued April 20, 2017.

Li S, Cho E, et al. “Alcohol intake and risk of rosacea in US women.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Jun;76(6):1061-7.

National Rosacea Society. “.” Rosacea Review. Fall 2010.

National Rosacea Society. “.” News release issued February 11, 2004.

Spoendlin J, Voegel JJ, et al. “A study on the epidemiology of rosacea in the U.K.” Br J Dermatol. 2012;167(3):598-605.

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There’s still no straightforward answer to this question. Findings from a few studies suggest the answer is yes. Other studies have not found that rosacea increases the risk.

These conflicting findings don’t mean that the studies lack value. People are complex, and many things can contribute to a person’s risk of developing heart disease, including lifestyle, age, and family history of heart disease. It takes time for scientists to sort out all of these risks.

The good news is that scientists continue to run studies to find out whether rosacea can increase the risk of developing heart disease. So far, this is what they’ve learned about the link between rosacea and heart disease.

People with rosacea may have more risk factors for heart disease

A risk factor is anything that increases your risk of getting a disease. Risk factors for having a stroke or heart attack include getting little exercise, smoking, and being overweight.

A few studies have found that people with rosacea seem to have more risk factors for heart disease than people who do not have rosacea.

One of these studies was a large study conducted in Taiwan. During this study, researchers looked at 15 years’ worth of medical records. After reviewing more than 200,000 medical records, they found that the people with rosacea were more likely than the people without rosacea to have unhealthy cholesterol levels and high blood pressure. Both are known risk factors for heart disease.

In another study, scientists recruited 60 people with rosacea and 50 people who did not have rosacea. The scientists found that the people who had rosacea also had more risk factors for heart disease than the people without rosacea.

In that study, blood tests revealed that the people with rosacea had higher levels of cholesterol and C-reactive protein (a marker for heart disease). The people with rosacea also had more family members with heart disease, and they smoked more than the patients without rosacea.

Because these can increase the risk of developing heart disease, the scientists concluded that people with rosacea may have a higher risk of developing heart disease.

Another study found that the patients with rosacea were more likely to have high blood pressure than patients who did not have rosacea. If a patient had more extensive rosacea, the patient was also more likely to have unhealthy cholesterol levels and diabetes. All of these can increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease.

More risk factors may not lead to more heart disease

In general, the more risk factors a person has for a disease, the greater the person’s risk of developing that disease. So the next logical question for scientists to ask was, “Do people with rosacea have more heart disease than people who don’t have rosacea?” Here’s what the scientists discovered.

During one study, scientists looked at medical insurance claim forms. They wanted to find out whether patients with rosacea were more likely to develop heart disease within a year of being diagnosed with rosacea.

They discovered that the patients with rosacea were not more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease within a year of being diagnosed with rosacea.

Another study followed patients with (and without) rosacea for up to 15 years. During this time, the patients with rosacea were not more likely to die of heart disease.

While these findings are encouraging, scientists need to run more studies to know for certain whether rosacea increases the risk of having a heart attack or stroke.

Takeaway for people with rosacea

Heart disease has many risk factors. While scientists are trying to find out whether rosacea is one of these risk factors, it’s important to keep in mind that many people who do not have rosacea develop heart disease.

You can find out if you have a higher risk by making an appointment to see your primary care doctor. During a checkup, your doctor can take your blood pressure. Blood tests can tell whether you have healthy cholesterol and sugar levels. You may also be screened for other risk factors.

If your checkup reveals that you have any risk factors for heart disease, making some lifestyle changes can reduce your risk. Medication can also help lower your risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

We know doing these things can help — even if rosacea is a risk factor.

Image: Getty Images

References

Duman N, Ersoy E S, et al. “Rosacea and cardiovascular risk factors: A case control study.” J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2014;28(9):1165-9.

Egeberg A, Fowler JF Jr, et al. “Nationwide assessment of cause-specific mortality in patients with rosacea: A cohort study in Denmark.” Am J Clin Dermatol. 2016;17(6):673-9.

Hua TC, Chung PI, et al. “Cardiovascular comorbidities in patients with rosacea: A nationwide case-control study from Taiwan.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;73(2):249-54.

Marshall VD, Moustafa F, et al. “Cardiovascular disease outcomes associated with three major inflammatory dermatologic diseases: A propensity-matched case control study.” Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2016; 6(4): 649-58.

Rainer BM, Fischer AH, et al. “Rosacea is associated with chronic systemic diseases in a skin severity-dependent manner: Results of a case-control study.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;73(4):604-8.

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Rosacea is a common skin condition, which can also affect your eyes.

When rosacea develops in your eyes, it’s important to treat it. Otherwise, you could develop problems with your eyesight. Your vision may become blurry. If you develop severe rosacea in your eyes, you might lose some of your eyesight. Catching and treating eye problems early can prevent these problems.

Is rosacea affecting your eyes?

More than half the people who have rosacea develop eye problems at some point. If you have been diagnosed with rosacea, it’s important to pay attention to your eyes. You want to look for:

• Swollen, red eyelids (most common sign)
• Red, bloodshot eyes
• Redness and swelling around your eyes
• Crusty eyelids or eyelashes
• Tearing (or dry eyes)
• A feeling you have something in your eye
• Burning
• Itching
• Sensitivity to light

Sometimes rosacea causes eye problems first — long before it appears on your skin. When this happens, you won’t have redness or other signs on your face. You’ll have one or more of the eye problems listed above.

If you think rosacea is affecting your eyes, make an appointment to see a dermatologist right away.

As already mentioned, treating eye problems caused by rosacea can prevent you from developing problems with your eyesight.

Treating eye problems can also prevent a serious eye infection. Treatment can also prevent your eyes from feeling dry and gritty.

If you have crusts on your eyelids and eyelashes or swelling around your eyes, treatment can alleviate these problems, too.

Benefits of treating rosacea on your skin

When rosacea affects your skin, treatment can help you feel better. Treating your skin can:

• Prevent rosacea from worsening
• Help you feel more comfortable
• Improve your self-confidence and quality of life

Without treatment for your skin, rosacea can become more noticeable. For example, the long-lasting flushing can become permanent redness on your face. Spider veins may appear on your cheeks. Some people develop acne-like breakouts.

Treating your skin can prevent these problems.

Treating your rosacea may also improve your mental health. Many research studies have shown that the constant redness, acne-like breakouts, and other signs of rosacea can lower a person’s self-esteem. People often say that they feel embarrassed by their skin. Some people say they try to avoid contact with other people as much as possible because they feel ashamed.

When rosacea lasts for years, some people develop depression, anxiety, or both. Researchers have found time and again that as the rosacea lessens so do these feelings.

Worried your rosacea is not serious enough to treat?

People sometimes wait to see a dermatologist until their rosacea becomes unbearable. Dermatologists encourage you to make an appointment long before this happens.

The earlier you start treatment, the easier rosacea is to manage.

Additional related information

Image used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol 2004; 51:327-41.

References

Moustafa F, Lewallen RS, et. al. “The psychological impact of rosacea and the influence of current management options.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014;71:973-80.

Pelle MT, Crawford GH, et. al. “Rosacea: II: Therapy.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:499-512.

Two AM, Wu W, et. al. “Rosacea Part II. Topical and systemic therapies in the treatment of rosacea.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;72:761-70.

Vieira AC, Mannis MJ. “Ocular rosacea: Common and commonly missed.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69:S36-41.

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If you have rosacea, laser or light therapy may be a part of your treatment plan. It’s unlikely to be your only treatment, though.

Different treatments for different signs of rosacea

When dermatologists create a treatment plan for rosacea, the plan often consists of medication, a rosacea friendly skin care plan, and tips to help you avoid flare-ups. Sometimes, a treatment plan also includes a procedure, such as laser therapy.

Your treatment plan is most likely to include a laser or light therapy if rosacea has caused:

• Visible blood vessels
• Thickening skin

A laser or light treatment can reduce (or get rid of) the blood vessels. To remove thickening skin, dermatologists may use laser resurfacing.

Laser treatment can also reduce redness. In a few small studies, lasers were used to treat permanent redness on the face or the redness surrounding acne-like blemishes. Some patients saw a considerable reduction in redness. Most patients, however, had about a 20% reduction in redness.

Because different lasers and exposure times were used in these studies, more research is needed to know how well lasers can treat the redness.

If you have permanent redness on your face, your dermatologist may prescribe a medication. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this medication can reduce (or clear) the redness for up to 12 hours. After 12 hours, the redness tends to return.

To prevent side effects after laser or light treatment, stay out of the sun and protect your skin when you must be outdoors.

What results are typical with laser or light therapy?

When used to treat visible blood vessels, most patients see a 50% to 75% reduction in visible blood vessels after 1 to 3 treatments. Some people see a 100% reduction.

Treatments are usually spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart.

If you have thickening skin, a skilled cosmetic dermatologist can give you very good results with in-office surgery and laser resurfacing. Patients who treat their thickening skin early tend to see the best results.

How long do results from lasers and lights last?

When used to treat blood vessels, the results tend to last 3 to 5 years. Treated blood vessels don’t reappear, but new ones can form.

Thickening skin tends to return after treatment. To prevent this and help you maintain results, your dermatologist can prescribe medication. You may also need follow-up laser therapy in the future.

What are the possible side effects from lasers and light treatments?

If you are considering a laser or light treatment, it’s important to know that your results depend largely on the person performing your treatment.

When you see a dermatologist, you’ll be in the care of a doctor who has the most experience treating the skin and skin diseases. Dermatologists:

• Know the skin and treats rosacea often
• Consider your medical history before creating a treatment plan
• Can tell you whether laser therapy or light device can effectively treat your rosacea

If a laser or light treatment is right for you, you may have some temporary side effects after a dermatologist treats you. After treatment, it’s common to see some redness. This usually fades within 2 weeks.

You may also see a rash of purple or red spots. These, too, tend to clear in 1 to 2 weeks.

During treatment, some patients experience skin tightening, itch, or pain.

Scarring is rare in skilled hands.

To help you get the best results, you should receive instructions that explain how to care for your treated skin. Follow these instructions carefully.

While the instructions about sun protection may seem unnecessary, sun protection is really important. Staying out of the sun and protecting your skin from the sun’s rays help prevent permanent scars.

What to tell your dermatologist

To get the best results, communication is essential. If a laser or light treatment may be an option for you, it’s important for your dermatologist to know:

• Which medications you take, including warfarin, isotretinoin, and aspirin
• What other medical conditions you have, such as getting cold sores from time to time
• If you are sensitive to light or bruise easily
• What results you expect

Although the FDA has approved some lasers and lights for treating rosacea and patients get good results, health insurance rarely covers the cost.

More research needed

Researchers continue to study how lasers and light treatments can treat rosacea. As we learn more, these devices may play a bigger role in treating rosacea.

If you’re interested in this treatment, a board-certified dermatologist can tell you whether a laser or light treatment may help treat your rosacea. You’ll know a dermatologist is board certified if you see the letters “FAAD” after the doctor’s name.

Images

Images (before and after treatment) used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:592-9.)

References

Abokwidir M and Feldman SR. “Rosacea Management.” Skin Appendage Disord. 2016 Sep;2(1-2):26-34.

Keller DM (with commentary by Harper JC). “Some types of rosacea respond better to laser therapies than others.” Dermatol News. 2017 Jul;(Acne & rosacea suppl):22-4.

Micali G, Gerber PA, et al. “Improving treatment of erythematotelangiectatic rosacea with laser and/or topical therapy through enhanced discrimination of its clinical features.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2016 Jul;9(7):30-9.

Seo HM, Kim JI, et al. “Prospective comparison of dual wavelength long-pulsed 755-nm Alexandrite/1,064-nm neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser versus 585-nm pulsed dye laser treatment for rosacea.” Ann Dermatol. 2016 Oct;28(5):607-614.

Tanghetti E, Del Rosso JQ, et al. “Consensus recommendations from the American acne & rosacea society on the management of rosacea, part 4: a status report on physical modalities and devices.” Cutis. 2014 Feb;93(2):71-6.

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If your rosacea causes breakouts that look like acne, you have some effective treatment options. Here’s what your rosacea treatment plan from a dermatologist may include:

Medications you apply to your skin

Azelaic acid: Most patients apply this medicine twice a day — in the morning and again in the evening.

Findings from 6 research studies show that between 70% and 80% of patients have had noticeably less rosacea with azelaic acid. Some patients saw complete clearing.

When you apply this medicine, you may feel some tingling or burning at first. This feeling tends to go away as you continue to use the medication. If it doesn’t, be sure to tell your dermatologist.

Another possible side effect of this medication is skin lightening. If your rosacea caused patches of darker skin on your face, you may not mind this side effect. Should you notice skin lightening, be sure to tell your dermatologist immediately.

Metronidazole: Available as a gel or cream, this treatment has been used for more than 60 years to treat the acne-like breakouts of rosacea. Research studies show that it can effectively reduce both the redness and the acne-like breakouts.

Some patients are able to stop applying this medication and keep the results they gained by using metronidazole. In one study, only 23% of patients had a rosacea flare-up 6 months after stopping metronidazole.

If you need stronger medication to control your rosacea, your dermatologist may prescribe metronidazole along with other treatments. Using everything in your treatment plan can improve results.

Possible side effects of using metronidazole gel or cream include itching, stinging, irritated skin, or dryness where you apply the medication.

Sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur: You’ll find these ingredients in treatment that you can buy without a prescription, such as a cleanser, and prescription medication that you apply to your skin.

These ingredients have been used to safely treat the acne-like breakouts of rosacea for more than 60 years. It’s considered safe, but be sure to tell your dermatologist if you have kidney disease or are sensitive to sulfur. You’ll also want to mention if are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

In research studies, scientists have found that these ingredients can effectively treat the acne-like breakouts and surrounding redness. According to research findings, patients typically see a 65% to 78% decrease in acne-like breakouts in about 6 to 8 weeks. Redness can decrease by 66% to 83%.

You can improve these results by following your rosacea treatment plan and avoiding what triggers your rosacea.

Possible common side effects from sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur include itching, dryness, temporary redness, or irritated skin. These tend to decrease as you use the medication.

Retinoid: This is a form of vitamin A that can irritate skin with rosacea. Once you get the rosacea under control, however, applying a retinoid can help you prevent flare-ups. It can also reduce signs of aging on your skin.

This option isn’t right for everyone. Your dermatologist can tell you if a retinoid is right for you.

Medicine you take

Antibiotics: For more than 50 years, dermatologists have prescribed tetracycline, an antibiotic, to their patients with rosacea. It can quickly reduce the acne-like breakouts and redness. In research studies, most patients have noticeably fewer acne-like breakouts within one month.

Other antibiotics, such as minocycline, doxycycline, or erythromycin, can also effectively treat rosacea.

If you need an antibiotic, it will generally be prescribed to get the rosacea under control. Once under control, most patients use another treatment to maintain results.

Taking antibiotics too frequently or for too long can cause a serious health problem called antibiotic resistance. This is a growing health problem around the world. Antibiotic resistance occurs when deadly bacteria become harder to treat because the antibiotics used to treat them become less effective.

To prevent antibiotic resistance, you may receive another treatment option called low-dose doxycycline.

Low-dose doxycycline: Doxycycline is an antibiotic. When you take this low dose, however, it doesn’t act like an antibiotic because it doesn’t have the power to kill bacteria.

Studies show that low-dose doxycycline can reduce the acne-like breakouts of rosacea. Based on these studies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved low-dose doxycycline to treat rosacea.

Information from studies show that taking the low dose is safe. It also causes fewer side effects than an antibiotic.

You should not take this medication if you are pregnant or nursing.

Isotretinoin: Approved only to treat severe acne, this medication may be an option. It has been shown to reduce the redness and acne-like breakouts. Because isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects, it’s not an option for every patient.

Procedures

Laser or light therapy: These can effectively treat the redness and acne-like breakouts. However, it’s important to know a few things about this treatment option.

Insurance will not cover the cost. Each treatment generally costs hundreds of dollars, and most patients need 1 to 5 treatments to achieve the best results.

To maintain results, most patients also need follow-up laser or light treatments.

It’s also important to know that your results depend largely on the person performing the procedure. Side effects, such as scarring, are much higher when the person who treats you knows little about the skin. To get the best results, look for a board-certified doctor who has experience treating rosacea with lasers and lights.

When you see FAAD after a dermatologist’s name, you know the doctor is a board-certified dermatologist.

Getting the best results from treatment

Keeping follow-up appointments with your dermatologist is essential to get the best results from treatment.

During your follow-up appointments, your dermatologist will examine your skin. If you’re getting good results, you may need to continue the treatment for a few more weeks. If not, your dermatologist can change your treatment.

Your dermatologist will also want to change your treatment as needed to reduce the possibility of long-term side effects.

To get the best results from treatment, it helps to make some lifestyle changes. To find out what dermatologists recommend, go to:

Images used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2015;73:333-6.)

References

Di Nardo A, Holmes AD, et al. “Improved clinical outcome and biomarkers in adults with papulopustular rosacea treated with doxycycline modified-release capsules in a randomized trial.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74:1086-92.

Pelle MT. “Rosacea.” In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine (seventh edition). McGraw Hill Medical, New York, 2008:703-9.

Tan SR and Tope WD. “Pulsed dye laser treatment of rosacea improves erythema, symptomatology, and quality of life.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51:592-9.

Two AM, Wu W, et al. “Rosacea Part II. Topical and systemic therapies in the treatment of rosacea.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;72:761-70.

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People who have rosacea are often unaware that it can also develop in their eyes. As a result, symptoms, such as irritated or dry eyes, are often overlooked. In fact, many people mistakenly believe that something else, such as allergies or contact lenses, is causing their eye problems.

One of the benefits of seeing a dermatologist for rosacea and keeping all of your follow-up appointments is that you can catch eye problems early. More than half of all people who have rosacea will develop symptoms in their eyes at some point.

The medical name for this condition is ocular rosacea.

You may have ocular rosacea if you notice any of the following problems with your eyes:

• Swollen, red eyelids (most common sign)
• Red, bloodshot eyes
• Pink eye (also known as conjunctivitis)
• Redness and swelling around your eyes
• Crusty eyelids or eyelashes
• Tearing (or dry eyes)
• A feeling you have something in your eye
• Burning
• Itching
• Sensitivity to light

Even when the rosacea on your skin is mild, you can develop serious eye problems.

If you notice any problem with your eyes, make an appointment to see your dermatologist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor) right away. When rosacea affects your eyes, treatment becomes essential. Without treatment, you may develop problems with your eyesight.

Treatment for ocular rosacea

When caught early, your dermatologist can often create a treatment plan for your eyes. You’ll likely need to treat it at home by:

• Applying warm compresses
• Cleansing with a gentle, eye cleanser
• Using eye drops and eye medication

Some patients need to take an antibiotic.

Your dermatologist may also refer you to an ophthalmologist for a check-up or further treatment. This is more likely if you have moderate or severe ocular rosacea.

Follow your treatment plan

When rosacea affects your eyes, it’s important to follow your treatment plan. You may need to wash your eyelids several times a day and use eye medication. This can seem tedious, but it’s essential to treat your eyes as often as directed.

You’ll also want to keep all of your follow-up appointments so that your dermatologist can see how you are responding to treatment.

By following all of your dermatologist’s instructions, you can relieve symptoms and prevent problems with your eyesight.

References

Pelle MT. “Rosacea.” In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine (seventh edition). McGraw Hill Medical, New York, 2008:703-9.

Vieira AC and Mannis MJ. “Ocular rosacea: Common and commonly missed.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69:S36-41.

Webster G, Schaller M. “Ocular rosacea: A dermatologic perspective.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2013;69(6 Suppl 1):S42-3.

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If you’re diagnosed with rosacea, pay close attention to your skin. If you notice firm, rounded bumps or thickening of the skin on your face, it’s time to see a dermatologist. These changes are most common on the nose. You may also notice them on your chin, forehead, eyelids, or one or both ears.

The medical term for these changes is phyma (fie-ma). When thickening skin develops on the nose, it’s called rhinophyma.

The earlier phyma is diagnosed and treated, the better. Your dermatologist may be able to treat it with medication if caught early enough. The more the skin thickens, the more difficult treatment becomes.

Allowed to progress, phyma can also cause medical problems. When it affects the nose, you can have trouble breathing. Swollen, thick eyelids can cause problems with your eyesight.

To treat phyma, dermatologists use one or more of the following.

Medicine you take

Isotretinoin: Approved to treat severe acne, this medicine may also prevent phyma from worsening.

While this medication can prevent the thickening skin from worsening, it cannot get rid of existing thickened skin. Only surgery can do that.

Because isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects in woman who are pregnant, this medication is not a treatment option for everyone. Women who have rosacea, however, rarely develop thickening skin.

Surgery

When thickened skin needs to be removed, your dermatologist may refer you to a dermatologic surgeon. Surgery to remove phyma is complex. It often requires using different surgical procedures to remove the excess skin and reshape the nose or other area of your face.

After surgery, you may need to take isotretinoin for a while to maintain the results.

You’ll also need to find and avoid your rosacea triggers. Gentle skin care and sun protection are also essential. You’ll find more information about this at:

Image used with permission of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (J Am Acad Dermatol 2016;74:1276-8).

References

Angelucci DD. “.” Dermatol Times. June 1, 2011. Last accessed August 2017.

Pelle MT. “Rosacea.” In: Wolff K, Goldsmith LA, et al. Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine (seventh edition). McGraw Hill Medical, New York, 2008:703-9.

Pelle MT, Crawford GH, et al. “Rosacea: II. Therapy.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2004;51(4):499-512.

Rosamilla LL. “Rosacea treatment schema: An update.” Cutis. 2017;100(1):11-13.

Two AM, Wu W, et al. “Rosacea Part II. Topical and systemic therapies in the treatment of rosacea.” J Am Acad Dermatol. 2015;72:761-70.

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