Understanding and Managing Rosacea: Treatment Options and Care

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes bumps or pimples.

Treatment Categories

1. Topical Medications

• Metronidazole: Reduces inflammation and redness
• Azelaic acid: Helps clear bumps and reduces inflammation
• Ivermectin: Treats inflammatory lesions
• Brimonidine: Temporarily reduces facial redness

2. Oral Medications

• Antibiotics: Doxycycline, minocycline (for moderate to severe cases)
• Isotretinoin: Reserved for severe cases resistant to other treatments

3. Light and Laser Therapies

• Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
• Pulsed Dye Laser
• KTP Laser

Lifestyle Management

Triggers to Avoid:

• Sun exposure
• Hot beverages
• Spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Extreme temperatures
• Stress

Daily Care Routine

1. Gentle cleansing
2. Sun protection (SPF 30+)
3. Moisturizing
4. Avoiding harsh skincare products

Expected Outcomes

• Treatment typically requires 2-3 months for visible improvement
• Ongoing maintenance therapy often necessary
• Combined approaches usually yield best results