Rosacea Treatments

Rosacea Laser Treatments

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a very common skin problem characterized by blotchy redness across the face. Pimple-like bumps may also appear, but they are usually red. Rosacea can be short term or long term and may be mistaken for an allergic reaction.

How is Rosacea caused?

The underlying causes of rosacea are not known. The most likely contributing factors are either environmental or hereditary. Each individual’s rosacea may be exacerbated by various elements. Potential triggers include certain skin products and cosmetics, emotions, hot drinks, spicy food, and sun exposure.

How can Rosacea be treated?

A combination of good skin care and either medication or therapy are used to treat rosacea. Some medicines, applied to the skin, can help reduce redness. There are also a few types of oral antibiotics that may help reduce rosacea. Laser therapy can also help reduce the appearance of enlarged blood vessels.

What are the benefits of treatment by lasers?

Laser therapy for rosacea is a safe, painless treatment. Laser therapy is also potentially more effective than topical treatments, especially when the rosacea is particularly severe. Additionally, the results of laser therapy are long-lasting and there are very few risks.

Who is a good candidate for Treatment?

Anyone can get rosacea, but fair-skinned women are much more likely to develop the condition. Rosacea is also likely to be more severe in women with lighter skin, so they are the most likely candidates for laser treatment. Patients who have not been able to resolve their rosacea via other methods are also good candidates for laser therapy.

What is the average cost of Rosacea Treatment?

Laser therapy for rosacea can cost upwards of $500-$600 per session. Insurance does not usually cover this procedure as it is considered cosmetic. Depending upon the amount of sessions needed, the cost can get quite high.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients will need multiple sessions in order to fully resolve the rosacea. The exact amount of treatments depends upon the severity of the rosacea. Most patients typically need at least three sessions.

How long will each treatment take?

Each session will last approximately thirty minutes. A licensed professional will work with you to determine if a shorter or longer session is necessary.

How far apart are treatments?

Treatments are typically three to six weeks apart in order to allow the skin to heal. In between treatments, it is important to avoid the sun as much as possible. Always use sunscreen and wear a large-brimmed hat if going outside.

What should I expect after treatment?

You may see some increased redness after treatment. This redness should fade over time, in no more than two weeks. Occasionally patients also develop red or purple spots, which should clear within the same timeframe. There may also be some itching. Sun protection is always important, but especially so after treatment. Always use sunscreen and large hats to protect your face from the sun.

How can I prepare for treatment?

Prepare a list of questions to ask your doctor, including questions about treatment options and skin care. Avoid taking any medications or supplements that are classified as blood thinners at least two weeks before having laser therapy.

How permanent is the treatment?

After the rosacea has been cleared, most patients can expect the treatment to last for three to five years. The treated blood vessels should not reappear, but new ones may appear at any time.

Where can I go to find a treatment?

Laser therapy for rosacea is offered at most cosmetic clinics. Dermatology clinics occasionally offer the service as well.