Rosacea

Rosacea (roh-ZAY-shuh) is a common, chronic skin condition that affects people of all ages. Middle-aged women are most susceptible, along with people who have fair skin and tend to blush easily. Men are more susceptible to severe rosacea. Rosacea is characterized by one or more of the following symptoms, which often come and go:

• Flushing and redness in areas of the face
• Small bumps or pimples that are similar to acne
• Red, swollen, bumpy nose (rhynophyma)
• Dry, red, irritated eyes

There is no known cause for rosacea, but hereditary and environmental factors can play a role in this condition. Many triggers have been identified, which can stimulate the flow of blood to the skin. Some triggers include:

• Hot drinks and spicy foods
• Alcohol
• Temperature extremes
• Exposure to sun or wind
• Stress
• Exercise
• Drugs that dilate blood vessels, including some blood pressure medications

ColumbiaDoctors Expertise for Rosacea Treatment

Because rosacea affects the face, its emotional consequences can be serious. And if left untreated, it can become more severe over time. ColumbiaDoctors Dermatology offers a full range of treatment options for managing rosacea, and our dermatologists will work closely with you to manage your condition.

Treatment often involves a number of approaches depending on the severity of your condition, which can include medication, therapies, and understanding your triggers. Our dermatologists have expertise with the most current rosacea treatments and will work with you to develop your personal treatment plan.

Topical Medications to Reduce Redness

One of the most effective new medications that has shown to reduce redness is the drub brimonidine (Mirvaso), which is applied regularly to the skin and works by constricting blood the blood vessels in your face. Azelaic acid and metronidazole are other topical treatments that have been shown to help reduce the redness and pimples of mild rosacea.

Oral Medications for Rosacea

Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed in combination with topical treatments to help reduce redness and inflammation or to treat rosacea that affects the eyes. If your rosacea is severe, your dermatologist might prescribe the drug Isotretinoin, a powerful and effective oral retinoid which has some potentially serious side effects.

Procedures and Therapies

• Laser and light therapy use uses high energy light sources to reduce redness of enlarged blood vessels.
• Dermabrasion removes layers of skin and is often used in combination with laser therapy when rosacea involves an enlarged nose.
• Surgery can remove excess tissue when rosacea involves an enlarged nose.

Helping you cope with rosacea

Rosacea can be challenging, but early detection and proper skin care and treatment can greatly reduce the effects of this condition. When you work with a ColumbiaDoctors dermatologist to manage your rosacea, you'll develop a comprehensive plan that addresses triggers, lifestyle changes, along with the most current treatment options to manage your symptoms. Together we can make sure that your rosacea doesn't take an emotional toll.

Locations

Herbert Irving Pavilion, 12th Floor
161 Fort Washington Avenue
New York, NY 10032

ColumbiaDoctors Midtown
51 West 51st Street, Suite 390
New York, NY 10019

ColumbiaDoctors Third Avenue Office
880 Third Avenue, 3rd Floor
New York, NY 10022