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Treatment for Rosacea
Questions and answers about IPL Treatments for Rosacea

What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition that causes the blood vessels in the facial skin to become inflamed and swollen. It is characterised by:

    • facial redness (erythema) and flushing/blushing
    • fine blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the face
    • inflammation / acne (papules, pustules)
    • swelling

Patients may have a few or all of the above features. Rosacea tends to affect individuals with fair skin types and is commoner in females than in males.

Rosacea usually affects the cheeks, forehead, nose and chin. A small number of patients may develop eye problems secondary to rosacea, in which case referral to an ophthalmologist is indicated. Other patients may develop a condition called rhinophyma, another potential complication of rosacea, in which the shape of the nose changes.

Facial redness and flushing may be exacerbated by hot liquids, spicy foods, alcohol (hot or cold), exposure to sunlight and heat (e.g. chefs working near a hot stove). Symptoms can be eased by avoidance of such precipitating factors.

For many patients with rosacea, their cosmetic facial appearance is a major concern. In many patients it causes embarrassment, with some patients even avoiding going outdoors. Rosacea may therefore have a negative impact on a patient’s quality of life.


How does the laser work?
The laser produces light in a series of short pulses which is directed into the skin, and then absorbed by small blood vessels within the epidermis and dermis. These small blood vessels are heated up to a high temperature and destroyed, a process called thermocoagulation. This destroys the entire vessel whilst causing minimal damage to the surrounding skin. Following treatment, the damaged vessels are absorbed by the body and little or no trace of the initial lesion remains.

This process also results in activation of cells in the skin called fibroblasts to stimulate collagen remodeling and new collagen production. This helps to rejuvenate the skin, improving its texture and reducing superficial fine lines and wrinkles

Does it hurt?
As the light energy is absorbed by the skin, it heats it up, and creates a mild pinprick, burning sensation. Most patients describe the discomfort as moderate and acceptable. No anaesthesia is usually required.

What are the side effects?
After treatment your skin will become quite red. This usually disappears within hours to a few days. Bruising and purpura may also be experienced, the extent of which depends upon which laser is used. Very rarely hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation or blistering may occur. Scarring is a rare complication.

How many treatments are necessary?
Treatment sessions are recommended every 3-4 weeks. The actual number of sessions needed varies from person to person, but usually at least 3 - 6 treatments are carried out.

How do I prepare for treatment?
Patients should avoid strong sunlight during the course of treatment and for at least 3-4 weeks afterwards. It is recommended that an SPF 30 is used on treated areas. Tanned skin cannot be treated and patients must not use any fake tan 6 weeks ahead of and during the entire treatment period.

How long does treatment take?
A facial treatment takes approximately 30 minutes.