Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that can affect individuals at any age. Characterised by redness, flushing, burning sensations, broken capillaries, and papules, it often flares in response to triggers such as environmental factors, stress, certain foods and drinks, and skincare products. While rosacea cannot be cured, a multifactorial approach can help manage symptoms effectively.
Treatment Options
Vascular Laser
Laser therapy is a highly effective option for managing the redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. At O’Skin, we utilise the VBeam by Candela™, designed to target dilated blood vessels in the skin. The laser targets and shuts down blood vessels causing redness, while leaving surrounding skin undamaged.
The initial treatment phase typically involves 3-5 sessions spaced 6-8 weeks apart. Maintenance treatments are recommended with periodic sessions every 3-6 months help sustain results and prevent flares.
Medications
Medications play a vital role in managing inflammation, papules, and pustules associated with rosacea. Your treatment plan may include or and/or topical therapies. Orally, low dose antibiotics such as doxycycline or erythromycin are used for a period of several months. Occasionally, in severe cases, isotretinoin may be considered. Topical medications such as ivermectin, metronidazole or azelaic acid
can also help to manage rosacea. Medications are often used in combination with other treatments, such as laser therapy and skincare, for comprehensive symptom management.
Medical Grade Cosmeceuticals
At O’Skin, we may recommend professional-grade skincare tailored to reduce inflammation, improve redness, and enhance skin health. Skincare products are selected to complement other treatments and to ensure you avoid products that may flare rosacea. The key to treatment is to improve and maintain your skin barrier to prevent further irritation. This includes gentle cleansers, moisturisers, active products
and sunscreen.
How it Works
Initial Consultation
At your first visit, we’ll assess your skin, discuss your symptoms and triggers for rosacea, and develop a customised plan to achieve long-term results. We will also determine whether you’re eligible for a Medicare rebate for vascular laser treatments.
Treatment
Medication and medical grade cosmeceuticals (skin products) are usually started at the initial consultation. Specific in clinic treatment is focussed on vascular laser therapy with the VBeam or Nordlys devices.
The VBeam by Candela™ is a vascular laser that targets blood vessels in the skin, shutting them down to reduce redness and flushing. Initially, a series of sessions, spaced 6-8 weeks apart, delivers optimal results. Individual maintenance treatments every 3-6 months help sustain results. You may experience redness and swelling immediately following treatment. Small areas of bruising are possible if larger vessels have been targeted.
Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial for maintaining results and preventing flares. Our team will guide you on avoiding common triggers, such as sun exposure and stress and incorporating recommended skincare and products into your daily routine.
Following laser therapy, you will be advised to protect your skin with SPF 50+ sunscreen immediately after treatment, for several weeks. Avoid active products on your skin, but usual gentle daily skin care is safe to continue. Avoid excessive exercise and alcohol for 24 hours after treatment or until any swelling has settled.
Sleep with an extra pillow to minimise swelling around the eyes.
Ensure you schedule a follow-up appointment to monitor progress and adjust treatment as needed.