Rosacea

Your persistently red skin might be due to rosacea, an immune system condition that makes your skin ultra-sensitive to sunlight, extreme temperatures, and other triggers. John Lasseter, MD, and the team at Stillwater Aesthetics and Wellness in Idaho Falls, Idaho, treat rosacea using an individualized approach for each patient. To schedule an appointment, call the nearest office today or book online on this website.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin condition that typically causes flushing and visible blood vessels to show up on your face. You might also develop tiny bumps across your skin, which look similar to pimples and are often filled with pus. Common rosacea symptoms like these tend to flare up every so often, sometimes in response to triggers. 

Some people with rosacea develop an additional symptom called rhinophyma, or an enlarged nose. This is because of skin thickening over time. Men tend to get rhinophyma with rosacea more often than women, despite rosacea being more common in women overall.

The team at Stillwater Aesthetics and Wellness can diagnose rosacea after an in-depth examination of your skin and a review of your previous medical history. Then, they recommend treatment based on the severity of your symptoms and go over strategies for keeping the redness at bay. 

What triggers rosacea symptoms?

Your rosacea symptoms might be present for weeks or even months at a time. Often, they flare up because of specific behaviors, things you’ve touched, or factors in your environment. Rosacea involves an overactive immune system and can show up in part because of:

• Temperature extremes
• Exercise
• Wind
• Sun
• Intense emotions
• Alcoholic drinks
• Spicy foods
• Certain medications
• Certain skin products

Identifying your triggers is one way you can avoid some rosacea flare-ups in the first place. If you tend to experience flushing after spending time in a windy environment, for example, you might be able to avoid a flare-up by shielding yourself from the blowing wind. 

How is rosacea treated?

There are numerous treatments and medications available to keep the redness, swelling, bumps, and other symptoms of rosacea at a minimum. 

Medications

Topical and oral medications on the market today help reduce flushing and acne-like lesions. The team prescribes them to you as needed and makes sure you know how to use them to your advantage. 

Laser therapy

Laser therapy targets the visible veins that show up on your skin. The laser heats and closes these veins, which causes them to disappear. 

Skin care

To better manage your rosacea, wear sunscreen daily, use gentle products for skin care, and moisturize your skin. 

For more information about rosacea and the strategies you can use to manage symptoms, call Stillwater Aesthetics and Wellness or go online today to book an appointment.