Rosacea Treatment

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition of the facial skin, usually showing as persistent redness in the central area of the face, sudden flushing in response to certain triggers, small visible blood vessels and, sometimes, papules and pustules resembling acne. In some people the eyes can also be affected.

Rosacea treatment is long-term medical management aimed at reducing redness and inflammation and making flare-ups less frequent. At Detalii Med in Baia Mare, assessment and treatment are carried out by Dr Alina Perța, senior consultant dermatologist, and Dr Greta Jurj, specialist dermatologist.

The consultation and treatment are intended for people who notice:

• redness on the cheeks, nose, forehead or chin that persists or keeps coming back;
• sudden flushing of the face with heat, exercise, spicy food, alcohol or stress;
• small visible blood vessels on the face;
• papules and pustules, without blackheads, on a background of redness;
• burning, stinging or sensitivity to cosmetic products;
• thickening of the skin of the nose, or irritated and dry eyes.

Rosacea is sometimes mistaken for acne or other conditions, which is why a diagnosis by a dermatologist is important.

Treatment can usually reduce inflammation, the number of lesions and unpleasant sensations, and skin care measures can make flare-ups less frequent. Visible vessels and persistent redness can be improved, if needed, with energy-based procedures chosen by the doctor.

Rosacea cannot be cured completely. It is a chronic condition, with calm periods and flare-ups, and symptoms can return after treatment is stopped. The realistic goal is therefore long-term control of the condition, not its complete disappearance.

The doctor talks with the patient about when the symptoms started, what triggers or worsens them, the cosmetic products used and treatments tried before. Eye symptoms, such as red or irritated eyes or a gritty feeling, are also important.

The diagnosis is usually made on clinical examination. The doctor may use dermatoscopy to assess the blood vessels and may recommend further tests when other conditions with a similar appearance need to be ruled out. If the eyes are affected, an ophthalmological assessment may also be recommended.

Treatment is tailored to the form of rosacea and the main symptoms. It may include:

• a gentle skin care routine, with mild cleansers, moisturising and daily sun protection;
• identifying and avoiding personal triggers;
• topical treatments, as creams or gels with an anti-inflammatory effect;
• oral treatments, in forms with many papules and pustules or in ocular rosacea;
• energy-based procedures for persistent redness and visible vessels, when indicated.

The type of technology, the number of sessions and the interval between them are decided at the consultation, according to the indication and skin type. The patient returns for regular check-ups so that treatment can be adjusted.

Topical and oral treatments require no recovery period, but at first they may cause mild irritation or stinging. The doctor recommends products suitable for sensitive skin and avoiding those containing alcohol, fragrance or abrasive particles.

After procedures for vessels and redness, the skin may be red or slightly swollen for a few hours or days. During this time, excessive heat, strenuous exercise, sun exposure and irritating products should be avoided.

Topical treatments can cause irritation, stinging or dryness, especially in the first weeks. Oral treatments may have side effects, such as digestive upset or increased sensitivity to sunlight, which the doctor explains before they are started.

Energy-based procedures can cause temporary redness and swelling, small bruises, crusts or, more rarely, pigmentation changes or burns. The risk is higher if the skin is tanned, which is why procedures are usually planned outside periods of strong sun exposure.

Improvement in papules and inflammation is usually seen after a few weeks of treatment, and the effect is generally assessed after about two to three months. Background redness responds more slowly to topical treatments.

Procedures for vessels usually require several sessions, and how long the effect lasts varies from person to person. New vessels may appear over time, especially if triggers persist, so maintenance sessions may be needed.

Rosacea is a chronic condition, but in many cases it can be well controlled with tailored treatment and by avoiding triggers. A correct diagnosis by a dermatologist is the first step. The treatment plan is set individually and adjusted over time, according to progress.