Rosacea Treatment in Houston, TX

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic facial skin condition. It usually shows up as redness and flushing, and it can also bring small visible blood vessels, raised bumps and pimples. Some people notice that their eyes are affected too.

Types of Rosacea

Rosacea is grouped into four types. Each one has its own pattern of symptoms, and some people have features of more than one.

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea

This type is marked by a red flush across the face that can spread down to the neck and chest. The skin may look swollen, and tiny blood vessels may be visible on the surface. Treatment depends on how severe the symptoms are.

Papulopustular rosacea

Papulopustular rosacea causes both papules, which are small raised bumps, and pustules, which are bumps filled with pus. Redness, swelling and a burning or stinging feeling can come along with them. The exact cause is not well understood, but inflammation in the skin is thought to play a part.

• What is a pustule?

Phymatous rosacea

Phymatous rosacea is a more severe and less common form. It leads to large, often red bumps on the face that can change the look of the skin, and in some cases it can leave lasting scars. It cannot be cured, but treatment can help keep its symptoms in check.

• What is rhinophyma?

Ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea affects the eyes, causing redness, irritation and inflammation. It often appears alongside facial redness and flushing, and in some cases it can affect vision. Its cause is not known, but it is believed to share the same underlying factors as rosacea on the skin.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Common signs of rosacea include:

• Redness of the face (erythema)
• Small, visible blood vessels near the surface of the skin (telangiectasia)
• Raised red bumps (papules)
• Pimples (pustules)
• Inflamed eyelids in some people

What Triggers Rosacea Flare-Ups?

Flare-ups are often set off by everyday things, such as:

• Very hot or very cold temperatures
• Sun exposure
• Hot drinks and alcohol
• Spicy foods
• Wind
• Exercise
• Stress

Some people also find that certain cosmetics or skin care products bring on a flare-up.

What Causes Rosacea?

No one knows exactly what causes rosacea. Researchers think it likely comes from a mix of genetics and environmental factors. Possible contributors include:

• Problems with the blood vessels in the skin
• Sun damage to the skin's connective tissue
• A reaction by the immune system

Rosacea is more common in women than in men. Your risk is higher if it runs in your family, or if you have fair skin, blond hair and blue eyes. Some people with rosacea also have relatives with acne, psoriasis or other skin conditions.

How Rosacea Is Diagnosed

Rosacea is common, but it is not always easy to recognize on your own. When we examine your skin, we look for a few key signs:

• A history of flushing or blushing
• Visible blood vessels on the face, such as telangiectasia
• Other symptoms, such as facial redness, bumps or pimples, and dry skin

If you think you may have rosacea, a visit with a dermatologist is the best way to get a clear diagnosis and the right treatment.

Rosacea Treatments

Treatment can reduce redness, bumps and visible blood vessels. Your plan may combine several of the approaches below.

Topical and oral medications

Your dermatologist may prescribe a cream or gel for your skin, an oral medication, or both, to ease your symptoms. Options can include topical treatments such as azelaic acid and oral antibiotics. Like any medication, these can have side effects such as dryness or irritation, and your dermatologist will talk through what to expect.

Laser treatment

For persistent redness and visible blood vessels, laser treatment may be part of your plan. Your dermatologist can tell you whether it suits your skin and your type of rosacea.

Flare-up prevention

Learning your personal triggers and avoiding them where you can is one of the most useful things you can do. Protecting your skin from the sun is an important part of this.

Skin care

A gentle skin care routine helps. Use a moisturizer after bathing to ease dryness and irritation, wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you go outside, and watch for products that seem to make your skin react.

What to Expect After Treatment

After treatment your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight, so limit your time in the sun and use sunscreen. Some dryness and irritation is also common, and a good moisturizer can help. Rosacea is a chronic condition, but symptoms often improve over weeks to months with treatment.

Am I a Candidate for Rosacea Treatment?

If you are noticing the signs of rosacea, such as facial redness, flushing or bumps, it is worth speaking with a dermatologist. Because there is no one-size-fits-all approach, we work with you to put together a plan that fits your skin and your needs.

How Much Does Rosacea Treatment Cost?

The cost of rosacea treatment depends on your treatment plan and on what your insurance covers. Our team can walk you through your options before you begin.

• Payment plans

Related reading

• What is rosacea? (glossary)
• What's the best treatment for rosacea?
• Facial redness: causes, symptoms and treatments
• Treating sun damage, brown spots and redness with lasers

If rosacea is affecting your skin or your confidence, we are here to help. Request an appointment with Team Dermatology and we will work with you on a plan to calm your skin.