What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that most commonly affects the central areas of the face, such as the cheeks and nose. The main symptoms of rosacea include persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and the appearance of bumps and pimples on the skin. People with rosacea may also experience burning or stinging sensations, especially on the cheeks, and the skin may be sensitive or swollen. The condition can come and go, with flare-ups triggered by factors such as sun exposure, stress, spicy foods, or changes in temperature.
The exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, but it is believed to be associated with a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors. Rosacea patients often have a family history of the condition and may be more likely to have fair skin that flushes easily. While rosacea can affect anyone, it is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 50, and women are more frequently affected than men. However, men with rosacea may be more likely to develop severe symptoms, such as skin thickening or enlargement of the nose (rhinophyma).
Signs and Symptoms of Rosacea
Signs and symptoms of rosacea can vary from person to person, but often include facial redness, visible blood vessels, bumps and pimples, and sometimes eye problems (ocular rosacea) that can lead to vision loss if left untreated. In some cases, the skin may become thickened or swollen, particularly on the nose. Because rosacea is a long-term condition, symptoms may be mild at times and more severe during flare ups.
There is no cure for rosacea, but effective rosacea treatment options are available to help manage symptoms and improve the appearance of the skin. Treatment for rosacea may include topical medications such as azelaic acid, oral antibiotics, and therapies to reduce inflammation and visible blood vessels. Avoiding known trigger factors, practicing good skin care, and protecting the skin from sun exposure are also important steps for rosacea patients. In some cases, liver function tests may be recommended to rule out other health conditions associated with rosacea.
If you have symptoms of rosacea, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper therapy and long-term management, people with rosacea can control their symptoms, reduce flare ups, and maintain healthier skin. Understanding the signs of rosacea and taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in the quality of life for those living with this chronic skin condition.
Yellow Q Star for treating rosacea and vascular conditions
- 577 nm wavelength
- 2 steps: Pen toning followed by scanner mode
- Works by targeting both melanin (pigments) and underlying blood vessels to address pigmentation issues like melasma, erythema, and redness
- Effectively kills acne-causing bacteria, reduces inflammation, and shrinks sebaceous glands to improve acne condition
Indications:
- Rosacea
- Telangiectasia
- Acne and post-acne redness
- Melasma
- Skin rejuvenation
Unsuitable candidates:
- Dark skin types: Fitzpatrick V and VI
Contraindications: (if unsure, always check with doctor)
- Pregnancy
- Active skin infection
- Signs of sun injury
- Wound
Interval: 4–6 weeks apart depending on condition(s)
Number of sessions: 4–6 sessions recommended, exact number depending on the condition(s)
Results: Immediate skin brightening and whitening; gradual improvement of acne/facial redness/melasma in the following weeks
Downtime: Treated area might appear slightly more erythematous post-procedure for rosacea/acne/PIE/telangiectasia; otherwise, nil downtime
Complications: visible blood vessels
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Scarring (rare)
Pre-procedure:
- Photo documentation
- Apply numbing cream: 30 mins (numbing for melasma/skin rejuvenation usually not needed)
- Obtain written consent
Post-procedure:
- Remove gel on the face
- Photo documentation
- Post-procedure skin cooling as required
- Apply moisturizer and sunscreen
- Post-procedure advice:
- Apply SPF 50 broad spectrum sunscreen at least twice a day
- DO NOT touch, scratch, or rub the treated area until fully healed to prevent irritation or infection
- Be gentle when washing your face
- Resume regular skincare products after 48 hrs
- Avoid skincare ingredients such as retinol, Vitamin C, exfoliating products (facial scrub/AHA/BHA) for 2 weeks
- Avoid excessive sun exposure for 2 weeks
- Avoid facial procedures and energy-based aesthetic treatments (laser, radiofrequency, HIFU, BBL, IPL) for 2 weeks
