Rosacea Treatments
Rosacea can substantially differ between patient and each treatment in our clinic is tailored towards the individual. A dermatologist is best places to assess your skin accurately and plan the best management for you.
We are able to combine treatments in our clinic for the optimum results. A typical treatment regime may involve one or several prescription products, a recommended skin care regime and in some cases a course of laser treatments or intense pulsed light. Our patients often remark on the fact that they have visited many other clinics and doctors and finally they have found a course of treatment that finally gives relief.
Subtype 1: Facial Redness
Subtype 1 (erythematotelangiectatic) rosacea is characterized by flushing and persistent facial redness. After months or years of regular flushing , permanent visible blood vessels may be present, and facial discomfort is common.
There is now prescription therapy to provide relief of facial redness. The cream , Mirvaso® (brimonidine) is helpful for some patients . In addition, it may be useful for you to identify and avoid lifestyle and environmental factors that trigger flushing or irritate your skin.
Visible blood vessels and severe background redness may be reduced with lasers or intense pulsed light therapy. Several sessions are typically required for satisfactory results, and maintenance sessions may later be needed as the underlying disease process is still present.
In specific cases, extensive flushing may be moderated somewhat through the use of certain drugs.
Clonidine is an anti-flush medication that is often highly effective in rosacea and is the predominant medication we use for flushing. It is not used often by GPs and is used “off- licence” by dermatologists commonly for the flushing of rosacea. Clonidine is used predominantly by GPs for high blood pressure. This will only be prescribed for rosacea if you are suitable for this medication and are aware of potential side effects.
Subtype 2: Papular- pustular rosacea
Papulopustular rosacea is characterized by persistent facial redness and acne-like bumps and pimples.
A number of medications have been extensively studied and approved for this common form of rosacea and may also be used on a long-term basis.
A common medication we use in the clinic is a new cream known as Soolantra® (ivermectin cream), we may use also initially a version of an oral therapy with less risk of microbial resistance has also been developed specifically for rosacea. Once the skin is under control the oral medications are often stopped.
Subtype 3 (phymatous) rosacea
This type is characterized by skin thickening and enlargement, most frequently around the nose(rhinophyma). This condition develops primarily in men. Although mild cases may be treated with medications, moderate to severe manifestations typically require surgery.
A wide range of surgical options is available, we have experience of treating this condition, in the clinic with excellent results.
Subtype 4: Ocular rosacea
Subtype 4 (ocular) rosacea is characterized by any one of many eye symptoms, including a watery or bloodshot appearance, burning or stinging, dryness, itching, light sensitivity and blurred vision. Treatment for mild to moderate ocular rosacea may include artificial tears, oral antibiotics and the daily cleansing of the eyelashes with recommended solutions.
