Rosacea Treatment in NYC

Rosacea is a common inflammatory skin condition characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like breakouts. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, rosacea affects approximately 14 million individuals in the United States. The National Rosacea Society has reported that most individuals with rosacea have struggled with self-confidence due to their skin condition. Although there is no cure for rosacea, various treatment options are available for managing symptoms and preventing flare-ups. Dr. Michele Green offers a variety of cutting-edge treatment options for rosacea at her private dermatology office in NYC and is here to help.

The symptoms of rosacea are usually quite apparent. However, understanding the underlying environmental factors, common triggers, types of rosacea, and best treatment options can be far more complex. Every patient with rosacea has unique symptoms, skincare needs, and ideal personal aesthetics. With expert guidance and a personalized rosacea treatment plan, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green will help you achieve the best cosmetic results utilizing the gold standard rosacea treatment options, including topical medications, laser treatments like the V-Beam and IPL to reduce facial redness and visible blood vessels, oral antibiotics and light chemical peels to treat pimple-like breakouts, and specially formulated skincare products to reduce inflammation and nourish and protect the skin.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist and expert in rosacea treatment with over 25 years of experience providing her patients from around the globe with the best non-invasive treatment options. She is consistently identified as one of New York’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will collect a thorough medical history and physically evaluate your skin condition. Dr. Green will then work with you to develop a personalized rosacea treatment plan that best suits your particular needs, including laser treatments, oral antibiotics, her carefully designed MGSKINLABs line of gentle skin care products, topical medications, and medical-grade facials. If you’re frustrated by facial redness, pustules, visible blood vessels, or other rosacea symptoms, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is here to help.

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is one of the most common chronic skin conditions in the United States. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that approximately 14 million Americans are affected by rosacea, with more than 3 million new cases diagnosed yearly. There are many signs and symptoms of rosacea, including facial redness, pimple-like lesions, visible blood vessels, flushing, eye irritation, dryness, and a burning or stinging sensation. Rosacea typically affects the face on the forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose, but it can also be present in areas of the body like the neck, chest, and back.

While rosacea is a skin condition that can affect anyone, it most commonly affects fair-skinned individuals between 30 to 50 years of age. While women are more likely to develop rosacea than men, men tend to have more severe symptoms. There are several skin conditions for which rosacea can be mistaken, including psoriasis, eczema, lupus, and contact dermatitis. The proper diagnosis is essential to guarantee your treatment plan includes the right topical products, oral antibiotics, and laser treatments.

Correctly diagnosing rosacea is essential. Many cases of rosacea are initially misdiagnosed as skin conditions that present with similar symptoms, such as eczema, psoriasis, or allergic contact dermatitis. Diagnosis by an expert health care professional, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, is essential to treat this skin condition properly. When you consult with Dr. Green, she can physically assess your skin condition, review your medical history in-depth, analyze possible environmental triggers, and determine your best treatment options.

Before & After photo: Male VBeam for Rosacea

How common is rosacea?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 14 million individuals in the United States are affected by rosacea. Most people with rosacea are fair-skinned and between the ages of 30-50. Many individuals affected by rosacea also have a family member with a skin condition. Women are more likely than men to get rosacea, although men tend to experience more severe symptoms.

What is the leading cause of rosacea?

The leading cause of rosacea remains unknown. Some contributing factors to the presence of rosacea can include blood vessel abnormalities, a high concentration of microscopic mites on the skin, an overactive immune system, environmental factors, a genetic predisposition, or any combination. Below are some additional details regarding factors that may contribute to rosacea.

What causes rosacea?

Rosacea is a complex condition whose exact etiology is still unknown. Although the precise cause of rosacea is unknown, several contributing factors are known to play a role in its development. For example, the condition is more common in women than in men. In addition, the condition tends to run in families, which suggests a genetic component. Below are a few possible explanations for rosacea that are currently being researched:

• Genetic predisposition: patients with a family history of rosacea have been observed to have an increased risk of rosacea

• Immune System: Rosacea may also be caused by an overactive immune system. Testing with a peripheral blood monoclonal proliferation assay revealed that Bacillus oleronius stimulates an immune response in 79 percent of 22 patients with subtype 2 (papulopustular type) rosacea.

• Microscopic mites on the human face, Demodex folliculorum, have been associated with an increased propensity for rosacea. Dr. Michele Green was featured in WebMD discussing this in “Are Mites Causing Your Rosacea?” 

• Helicobacter pylori (h. pylori) is a bacteria that normally lives in the gut.  It is believed that this bacteria can cause rosacea to flare by producing an enzyme that causes facial flushing. How common is rosacea? According to the American Academy of Dermatology, approximately 14 million individuals in the United States are affected by rosacea. Most people with rosacea are fair-skinned and between the ages of 30-50. Many individuals affected by rosacea also have a family member with a skin condition. Women are more likely than men to get rosacea, although men tend to experience more severe symptoms.

Do I have rosacea?

The hallmark of rosacea is persistent redness in the central portion of the face, which persists for at least three months. Facial redness may be associated with flushing, broken capillaries or visible blood vessels, telangiectasias, and acne-like breakouts. However, unlike acne vulgaris, the breakouts associated with rosacea do not typically include comedones, whiteheads, or blackheads.

Patients often find that the first symptom of rosacea is a tendency to flush or blush easily. The condition generally starts in the center of the face and then extends to involve the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. While less common, rosacea symptoms may also affect the neck, chest, and back. Over an extended period, potentially years, the condition can involve persistent redness with visible blood vessels and pimples and pustules. With time, the facial redness can become ruddier and more persistent. The nose may grow swollen and bumpy in more severe cases, medically known as rhinophyma. There is no diagnostic test for rosacea. A dermatologist diagnoses rosacea upon discussing your medical and family history and physically assessing your skin condition. Whether you are experiencing rosacea symptoms for the first time or dealing with a flare-up, Dr. Green is here to help.

What are the signs and Symptoms of Rosacea?

Some telltale signs of rosacea include facial redness, visible blood vessels, and pimple-like breakouts. In addition to these signs of rosacea, other symptoms can include eye irritation, dryness, skin thickening, a burning or stinging sensation, swelling, and flushing. Red papules or pustules are similar to acne lesions and can be warm, painful, or swollen. Sometimes, these pustules become infected and exude pus, which may require antibiotics to control effectively. When the eyes are affected, it is called ocular rosacea. Rosacea symptoms may vary widely from patient to patient. For example, some patients may only experience facial redness and flushing, while others may present with bumps, pimples, thickened skin, pruritus, a burning sensation, or eye involvement. For this reason, Dr. Green always provides a customized treatment plan based on your individual needs.

Facial redness, however, is the hallmark of rosacea. It is defined by persistent redness along the central facial skin, with small blood vessels often appearing around the nose, cheeks, and chin. In untreated rosacea, the visible blood vessels can worsen over time, becoming more visibly prominent and sometimes developing a burning or itching sensation.

What are the types of Rosacea?

Because rosacea is a complex condition, it has been divided into subtypes, which are determined based on the appearance of the skin. This subdivision helps classify rosacea. However, patients may have symptoms of more than one subtype simultaneously.

Subtype 1 – Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea

Subtype 1 is characterized by persistent facial redness (or erythema). Broken blood vessels, called telangiectasias, may be present, and the skin may feel irritated, sensitive, and uncomfortable, akin to a sunburn.

Subtype 2 – Papulopustular Rosacea

Subtype 2 is characterized by facial redness and acne-like bumps and pimples. Patients with this type of rosacea tend to experience more oily skin texture and raised skin patches.

Subtype 3 – Phymatous Rosacea

Subtype 3 (medically called phymatous rosacea) is characterized by skin thickening and enlargement, especially around the nose. When the nose is involved in this manner, it is referred to as a rhinophyma. It is believed that W.C. Fields had this type of rosacea involving his nose.

Subtype 4 – Ocular Rosacea

Subtype 4 is characterized by the presence of eye symptoms, including watery eyes, red eyes, foreign body sensation, eye burning, dry eyes, styes, and blurred vision. A board-certified ophthalmologist can effectively manage and help treat your ocular rosacea.

What are the symptoms of Ocular Rosacea? 

Ocular rosacea is defined by pruritic, dry, irritated, and red eyes. In some cases, the eyes can also be photophobic. Many patients complain of eyelid irritation, also called blepharitis, or eyelid swelling, which can lead to severe vision problems if left untreated. Ocular rosacea can be associated with conjunctivitis, which can cause redness and inflammation of the eye itself. Steroid eye drops, such as Blephamide, may be prescribed. Styes are also a common occurrence with ocular rosacea. Almost half of the patients with rosacea suffer from ocular rosacea.

What are the common triggers for rosacea?

For many patients, rosacea can be aggravated or triggered by specific dietary, lifestyle, or environmental factors, including:

• Stress
• Heat
• Genetics
• Spicy foods 
• Caffeine and caffeinated hot drinks, like coffee
• Dairy products
• Spices and seasonings with such ingredients as cayenne pepper or red pepper
• Foods containing cinnamaldehyde, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate
• Smoking
• Wind
• Hot baths
• Exercise such as hot yoga. 
• Extreme heat or cold weather
• Steam rooms
• Intense exercise
• Sun exposure
• Wind exposure
• Alcohol
• Hormonal or endocrine problems, such as thyroid diseases or menopause
• Hypertension
• Medications that dilate the blood vessels, such as certain blood pressure medications such as blood pressure medications
• Specific skincare or cosmetic products such as Retin-A creams or creams that have fragrance or alcohol-based

It is essential to identify these “triggers” which can exacerbate your rosacea and avoid them to keep your rosacea under control and avoid flare-ups.

Rhinophyma and treatment options

Rhinophyma is characterized by red, large bumps on the nose, which tend to increase in size and become bulbous. Rhinophyma is a type of severe rosacea and can often be associated with ocular rosacea. It gradually forms over many years, classically when rosacea is improperly treated or untreated. The large mass formed at the end of the nose is a serious cosmetic concern. 

Rhinophyma tends to occur more commonly in men than women, and the after-onset of the disease gets worse with age. As rhinophyma clinically worsens, typically, you see an increase in facial redness, a thinking of the skin, a rough and waxy appearance to the epidermis, enlarged facial pores, and an increase in the number and size of oil glands. Treating rhinophyma is difficult since it typically responds poorly to oral or topical antibiotics once it develops. Isotretinoin (Accutane) can help decrease the increase in sebaceous glands and inflammation.

Surgery is the most effective treatment of rhinophyma, as the overgrowth of blood vessels and tissue classically causes facial disfigurement around the nose. The main therapeutic, surgical approaches to rhinophyma include traditional surgery, laser resurfacing with CO2 lasers, cryosurgery, and dermabrasion. Using these surgical and laser modalities, the shape of the nose can be restored, and the overgrowth of tissue be improved cosmetically.

Before & After photo: VBeam laser to treat Rosacea

How to Best Treat Facial Rosacea

There are three primary goals to consider regarding rosacea treatment. The first is to control inflammation and irritation caused by rosacea. The next is to treat the appearance of flushed skin, facial redness, and broken blood vessels to improve the look and feel of the skin. Lastly, Dr. Green always wants to leave her patients with healthy and glowing skin. Regarding rosacea treatment, the best possible care should leave patients feeling and looking even better than before the onset of symptoms. An experienced board-certified dermatologist, such as NYC’s Dr. Michele Green, will work with you to create a personalized rosacea treatment plan that best suits your particular needs and goals after physically evaluating your skin condition and discussing your medical history.

To contain, heal, and reduce the appearance of symptoms due to rosacea, patients typically rely on a combination of oral and topical medications, photodynamic treatments, skincare products, and laser treatments. These treatment options may include topical medications such as antibiotic gels or vitamin-C serums, oral medications, laser treatments such as the V-Beam laser, or light therapies such as Red and Blue Light therapy. Dr. Green can effectively treat your rosacea by combining several skin care modalities in a customized treatment plan.

Best Topical Skin Care Treatments for Rosacea

Rosacea is a complex skin condition that involves genetic and environmental factors. When constructing a rosacea treatment plan, the best dermatologists, like Dr. Michele Green in NYC, first analyze your basic skin care regimen. Since patients with rosacea have some of the most sensitive skin, Dr. Green will suggest gentle cleansers and toners for cleansing your skin and non-comedogenic, oil-free moisturizers to nourish and soothe your skin. Next, she will make personalized recommendations regarding treatment options such as topical medications, laser treatments, or oral antibiotics to treat your rosacea symptoms. 

• Metrogel, or Metronidazole cream, is a classic topical medication that prevents and treats facial rosacea and its accompanying facial redness by reducing inflammation and inhibiting bacterial growth on the skin.
• Soolantra (Ivermectin) is an excellent choice to reduce inflammation and facial redness characteristic of rosacea.
• Mirvaso (Brimonidine) gel is a topical cream that reduces the visible blood vessels associated with rosacea and is used once a day.
• Rhofade (Oxymetazoline) is a topical cream similar to Mirvaso in that it causes blood vessels to narrow, reducing facial redness. Rhofade should be used only once a day, too.
• Azelaic acid is a gel that treats rosacea’s papules, pustules, and inflammatory components. 
• Vitamin C Serum is an excellent antioxidant serum that offers many benefits, including reducing facial redness and rejuvenating the face. Dr. Green’s best-selling Vita-C-Serum is available online here.

Sunscreen and Rosacea

Sun exposure can exacerbate rosacea symptoms, so limiting sun exposure and using proper sun protection is essential. Dr. Green recommends using a fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to protect the skin without irritating—broad-spectrum sunscreen shields against UVA and UVB rays to provide maximum sun protection. Dr. Green recommends layering two types of sunscreens. First, apply a chemical sunscreen containing ingredients such as avobenzone, octinoxate, or oxybenzone, that will absorb into the skin. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing heat energy from the sun’s rays and undergoing a chemical reaction within the skin. Next, layer on a physical or mineral sunscreen. These sunscreens will typically include ingredients such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide and work by sitting atop the skin’s surface, acting as a barrier against harsh UV rays.

Please remember that sunscreen must be applied every ninety minutes to maintain the best coverage. For even more protection, patients with rosacea are urged to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and avoid sun exposure, especially when UV rays are at their strongest between 10 A.M. and 4 P.M. Dr. Green has specially formulated the Hydrating Sunscreen with SPF 50 from her MGSKINLABs Inc. line of skincare products, which provides broad-spectrum coverage and a silky finish to ensure sun protection and comfort.

VBeam for Rosacea – 4 months

Oral Antibiotics to Treat Facial Rosacea

One of the primary treatment options for rosacea is oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline, minocycline, or tetracycline. Dr. Green traditionally prescribes Doxycycline, Oracea, or Flagyl (Metronidazole) for facial rosacea and its associated breakouts. Once the acne-like breakouts associated with rosacea have resolved, patients may be able to discontinue oral antibiotics and manage their condition with other topical treatment options. The main side effects of chronic oral antibiotic usage are yeast infections, gastrointestinal upset, and photosensitivity. Ocular rosacea can be treated with oral antibiotics, eye washes, and antibiotic drops. In more severe cases of ocular rosacea, Dr. Green will refer you for consultation with a board-certified ophthalmologist.

In some cases, Dr. Green may recommend using isotretinoin (Accutane) to treat chronic papules or pustules caused by rosacea. Isotretinoin is not an oral antibiotic but an oral medication related to vitamin A. Although isotretinoin is typically a treatment option for traditional acne vulgaris, it can successfully treat rosacea. To determine whether you would benefit more from oral antibiotics, Isotretinoin, or another alternative, Dr. Green will consult you regarding your medical history and physically assess your skin condition.

What areas of the body are affected by rosacea?

Rosacea most commonly affects the nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. Rosacea may also affect areas of the body such as the neck, chest, scalp, eyes, and back. Since rosacea commonly affects the same areas of the face and body as acne and can be associated with pimple-like breakouts, it can often be mistaken for acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris, however, is a different skin condition than rosacea. Some acne and rosacea treatment options may overlap to some degree, such as oral antibiotics and V-beam laser treatment. There are additional topical creams that Dr. Green may recommend for managing rosacea symptoms and preventing flare-ups. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will collect a thorough medical history and physically assess your skin condition to provide the proper diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan that best suits your needs.

Laser Treatments for Facial Rosacea

V-Beam Pulsed Dye Laser Treatment

The V-Beam pulsed dye laser treatment is the gold standard for rosacea. The VBeam laser therapy operates on a wavelength that removes the facial redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. The V-Beam is a pulsed dye laser that selectively treats any red pigment in the skin. The laser energy is transmitted to the blood vessel wall, causing the blood vessels to collapse, reabsorb, and later be eliminated. Since the laser treatment targets red pigment, this means that not only does the V-Beam effectively treat rosacea, but it can be used to diminish the appearance of stretch marks, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne scars, broken capillaries, surgical scars, and more. Zero downtime is involved with the V-Beam laser treatment, which can be completed in minutes. For this reason, Dr. Green often refers to the V-Beam laser as the “lunchtime” laser. In addition, the laser is equipped with a patented Dynamic Cooling Device, which emits a burst of cool air before each laser pulse, enhancing the comfortability of the laser treatment for the patient.

Most patients do not require any numbing cream for the V-Beam laser treatment. Patients with very sensitive skin or treating a more extensive body area may choose to use a numbing cream. In this case, Dr. Green can give a topical numbing cream to your chosen pharmacy. The cream should be applied to the entire treatment area in a thick layer one hour before your laser treatment. Once you arrive at Dr. Green’s private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood, the numbing cream will be removed and the skin sterilized to prepare you for treatment.

Typically, patients require between four and six treatment sessions to eliminate the appearance of their rosacea and achieve their ideal cosmetic results, which can be maintained by avoiding common triggers and using the right skincare products and topical medications. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that most patients observe a 50–75% reduction in visible blood vessels after the first three laser treatments, and many patients achieve a 100% reduction. Since rosacea is a chronic skin condition with symptoms that may come and go, patients may require subsequent laser treatments for future flare-ups. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will physically assess your skin condition and determine whether you are a good candidate for V-Beam laser treatment. She will then work with you to construct a customized rosacea treatment plan that best suits your specific needs and concerns.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

IPL treatment, also called photo rejuvenation or a photo facial, is an anti-aging treatment that utilizes different wavelengths of light to improve the tone and texture of skin with minimal downtime. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is another cosmetic treatment for reducing facial redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. The Sciton IPL uses intense pulsed light to reduce facial redness and pigmentation in the same session. Patients treating the recurrent symptoms of rosacea typically require an average of 3 to 6 IPL treatment sessions, each spaced approximately four weeks apart, to achieve the final desired results. Most patients undergo an annual maintenance treatment session to achieve the best results.

Photodynamic Therapy for Rosacea

Photodynamic therapy is an exciting treatment option for patients with active pimples, rosacea, or psoriasis, among other skin conditions. Photodynamic therapy uses a photosensitizing molecule and intense blue light to heal the skin. Levulan, a topical medication, is placed on your facial skin for one hour. After one hour, the Levulan solution is removed. Then, you are directly exposed to the Blue light for 16 minutes. The Blue light will activate the acne/rosacea lesions and help to heal your rosacea and its associated breakout.

Red and Blue Light Therapy with HydraFacial Treatment

Red/Blue Light Therapy, in the form of LED light therapy, helps reduce facial redness and fine lines.  Dr. Green incorporates this light therapy into the medical-grade HydraFacial for rosacea. Rosacea patients can benefit from the Hydrafacial further by enhancing their treatment with a specialized serum called Rozatrol. Rozatral is a Hydrafacial booster serum designed to reduce the facial redness and inflammation associated with rosacea.

HydraFacials for Rosacea

A HydraFacial is a three-step medical-grade facial that is powerfully effective for improving the health and appearance of the skin yet gentle enough for patients with sensitive skin, including those struggling with rosacea. HydraFacial infuses specialized skincare serums into the skin using innovative vortex technology while cleansing and extracting impurities. The HydraFacial first deeply cleanses, then gently exfoliates the skin. The final step is the infusion of beneficial antioxidants and peptides to nourish, hydrate, and protect the skin. The Rozatrol Booster is specifically designed to complement your HydraFacial and improve the appearance of facial rosacea. Not only do HydraFacials treat acne, rosacea, and facial redness, but they can also be used to treat an uneven skin tone and skin texture effectively HydraFacials are recommended as monthly treatments to improve facial tone, texture, red and brown spots and reduce enlarged pores.

Is laser treatment for rosacea permanent?

The appearance of broken visible blood vessels corrected with laser treatments will not return, although new blood vessels may appear. Unfortunately, laser treatment’s effects are not permanent for rosacea since it is a chronic skin condition with symptoms that may come and go. The V-Beam laser treatment is the gold standard for reducing facial redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. The VBeam laser operates on a wavelength that exclusively targets the red pigment in the skin, destroying it while the surrounding skin is unharmed. Most patients require a short initial series of laser treatments to get their final desired results, with many choosing to undergo maintenance treatment sessions for future flare-ups. Each laser treatment session should be spaced approximately one month apart. Zero downtime is involved, meaning patients can easily fit their laser treatments into their busy schedules and resume normal activities immediately following the procedure. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that most patients observe a 50–75% reduction in visible blood vessels after the first three treatments, and many patients achieve a 100% reduction. When you consult with Dr. Green at her private dermatology office in NYC’s Upper East Side neighborhood, she will physically assess your skin condition to determine whether you are a good candidate for V-Beam laser treatment for rosacea.

How to get rid of rosacea

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition, and the rosacea symptoms may come and go. It is possible to manage and treat rosacea symptoms with various treatment options, including oral antibiotics, Isotretinoin, light/ laser treatments, and various topicals. Limiting exposure to the known common triggers of rosacea can also be helpful. The first step in developing a safe and effective rosacea treatment plan is scheduling a consultation with an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green.

Can rosacea be cured?

Currently, there is no known cure for rosacea. However, various treatment options exist that can be used to manage rosacea symptoms and limit, reduce, and eliminate the appearance of rosacea on the skin’s surface. Light therapies and laser treatments are excellent options for patients looking to reduce the likelihood of broken blood vessels and heal the skin during and after a flare-up. The key to successfully treating rosacea is maintenance, proper skin care, adequate sun protection, a healthy, anti-inflammatory diet, and avoiding the known common triggers for rosacea. Many patients with rosacea may be sensitive to certain skincare products, including sunscreens. If sunscreens are too irritating for topical use, pure zinc oxide can protect the skin from sun exposure and prevent rosacea flares. Additionally, many topical prescription creams, gels, and lotions can be used safely in conjunction with other treatments to reduce symptoms of rosacea effectively.

Is rosacea itchy?

Many patients who deal with rosacea also, unfortunately, have some accompanying itchiness. This typically comes in tandem with facial redness and is described by many patients as a sense of dryness or stinging along the skin’s surface. Treatment options include topical creams and oral antibiotics, which can help alleviate this pruritus. When you consult with experienced board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green, she will prescribe any necessary medications and treatment options that can help alleviate itching and other to help relieve itching and other rosacea symptoms.

Does Rosacea Burn? Is Rosacea painful?

Burning, stinging, and itching sensations can occur with rosacea. Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition associated with flushing and increased skin sensitivity. Sometimes, the skin can feel hot and tender during a flareup or after using irritating skincare products. Burning sensations can also develop as untreated rosacea progresses. This burning sensation is typically accompanied by flushing and facial redness, commonly classified as subtype one rosacea or erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR). Because of this flushing reaction, many patients experience this as painful and need to treat the rosacea to relieve the side effect of the condition.

How do you get rosacea? Is rosacea contagious?

Rosacea and the symptoms of rosacea are not contagious. Although rosacea affects millions of patients yearly, it does not spread from person to person. The exact underlying cause of rosacea remains unknown. However, several factors have been linked to the presence of rosacea. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that has both genetic and environmental factors. Each individual with rosacea can experience different symptoms and have other environmental factors and triggers aggravating their symptoms.

VBeam, 2 sessions, 2 months before and after

Can Rosacea go away?

Rosacea is not a skin condition that goes away but can be effectively managed. Rosacea is a chronic skin condition, and the rosacea symptoms may come and go. The common triggers for rosacea flare-ups include caffeine, alcohol, sun exposure, hot or cold weather, spicy foods, strenuous exercise, wind exposure, and stress. As a chronic skin condition, an expert dermatologist should monitor and treat rosacea. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience diagnosing and treating rosacea. She works with patients encountering rosacea symptoms for the first time and those who have dealt with flare-ups for years and will be able to develop a sustainable treatment plan that best fits your current needs.

Can you pop rosacea bumps?

No! One of the symptoms of rosacea is pimple-like breakouts. Suppose you suffer from red papules or pustules due to rosacea. In that case, it is essential that you do not try to pop these bumps, as this can worsen inflammation, further aggravate the affected area, and possibly result in permanent scarring. A scar forms when skin inflammation damages the underlying tissue irreparably and is often more challenging to treat than the original lesion. Instead of risking permanent damage, schedule a consultation with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Green in New York City. Dr. Green will collect a thorough medical history and physically evaluate your skin condition to develop a personalized rosacea treatment plan that includes topical medications, laser treatments, oral antibiotics, and specially formulated skincare products best suited to your particular needs.

Is rosacea an autoimmune disease?

Rosacea is not considered a classical autoimmune disease. However, having rosacea makes you twice as likely to be associated with another autoimmune disease. Rosacea is considered an inflammatory skin condition. However, it shares genetic loci with other autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes mellitus and celiac disease. Recent studies have also associated rosacea with an increase in thyroid disease. Further studies are needed to understand the actual mechanism involved in developing rosacea.

Why rosacea happens: Is rosacea genetic?

The leading cause of rosacea remains unknown. However, rosacea is a skin condition that tends to run in families, and there appears to be an inherited or genetic component to rosacea. Those with a family member who has rosacea are more likely to develop the skin condition. Fair-skinned individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II are more likely to develop rosacea than other skin types. Women are more likely to get rosacea than men, although men are more likely to have severe symptoms. Rosacea is a complex skin condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Other factors that may contribute to the development of rosacea include the immune system, infection of H. pylori, and an overpopulation of a naturally found mite on the skin, among others.

Does H. pylori aggravate rosacea?

Some studies suggest that an elevated level of H. pylori in one’s gut increases the amount of gastrin produced. This increased gastrin production may cause or exacerbate the flushing/ facial redness associated with rosacea. Many people, however, may have an infection of H. pylori that does not cause or worsen rosacea symptoms.

Do mites cause rosacea?

Although rosacea is a common skin condition, the exact underlying cause of rosacea is still unknown. It is thought that some cases of rosacea may be due to an overpopulation of mites that can naturally be found on the skin’s surface. Demodex folliculorum is the name of the mite that usually lives harmlessly on human skin but can sometimes be found in particularly high concentrations in rosacea patients. For many, the presence of these mites does not cause any issues. Some patients are thought to be susceptible to these mites, which may cause the inflammation associated with rosacea.

Does rosacea affect your eyes?

Yes, 50% of patients suffering from rosacea have some aspect of ocular rosacea affecting their eyes. Patients with ocular rosacea may experience redness, itching, burning, or other irritation. Ocular rosacea is often confused for allergies, and many patients with this skin condition may be unaware that they have rosacea that affects their eyes. If ocular rosacea remains untreated, vision problems can develop. It is recommended to consult with a board-certified dermatologist and follow up with an ophthalmologist should you experience symptoms of ocular rosacea.

How to soothe and prevent rosacea flare-ups

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that cannot be cured. However, it is possible to soothe and prevent future flare-ups by limiting exposure to common triggers and employing simple lifestyle practices.

• Using a proper skincare routine and gentle, non-irritating skincare products, such as Cetaphil, are essential for patients with rosacea. Non-comedogenic moisturizers, hydrating creams, and topical medications can control rosacea flares.
• Limiting sun exposure and applying sunscreen daily. Ideally, your sunscreen should be a broad-spectrum formula that blocks UVA and UVB rays. Dr. Green recommends SPF 30 or higher for daily use. Covering up by wearing a wide-brimmed hat can also help prevent rosacea flare-ups.
• Proper eye care, when needed, such as re-wetting eye drops (artificial tears) and special eye rinses, helps with ocular rosacea.
• Avoid spicy foods.
• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, like very hot or very cold weather.
• It’s best to avoid things that exacerbate rosacea’s effects, like sun exposure, irritating make-up, hot beverages, cigarette smoking, and caffeine.
• Try meditation or yoga as a way to manage stress.

How is rosacea diagnosed?

There is no specific diagnostic test for rosacea—a dermatologist diagnoses rosacea after reviewing your medical history and physical evaluation of your skin condition. If you are diagnosed with rosacea, Dr. Green will work with you to develop a treatment plan that helps you manage symptoms and limit flare-ups. Some testing may be ordered to rule out other skin conditions that may be confused for rosacea, such as acne vulgaris, eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, and lupus.

Is rosacea acne?

Rosacea is not acne vulgaris, although these different skin conditions can look similar. Acne is a common skin condition when sebum, dead skin cells, and acne-causing bacteria clog the skin’s pores, leading to pimples, pustules, cysts, nodules, blackheads, or whiteheads. Facial redness and inflammation associated with acne are usually limited to the areas of the skin where the active pimples are. Rosacea is an inflammatory skin condition related to diffuse facial redness and breakouts of acne-like bumps. Rosacea does not cause blackheads or comedonal acne, and visible blood vessels often accompany breakouts. If you are struggling with facial redness and breakouts, and are unsure whether you are experiencing rosacea or acne vulgaris, schedule a consultation with Dr. Green in NYC. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience helping patients manage their breakouts to achieve and maintain healthy, clear, smooth skin that lasts.

Who gets rosacea?

While rosacea is a skin condition that can affect anyone, some individuals are more likely to be affected than others. For instance, women are more likely than men to develop rosacea. However, when men have rosacea, the symptoms tend to be more severe. Individuals with fair skin are more likely to be diagnosed with rosacea. Rosacea most commonly affects fair-skinned individuals between the ages of 30-50. While rosacea can affect children and adolescents, it is rare. Those who have a family member with rosacea are more likely to develop the skin condition. Rosacea is a common chronic skin condition that affects 14 million individuals in the United States, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

What is the most effective treatment for rosacea?

Oral antibiotics, topical creams, and laser treatments are the most effective rosacea interventions. Tetracycline, minocycline, and doxycycline are oral antibiotics that are often prescribed to treat the acne-like breakouts that are common with rosacea. Oral antibiotics are typically stopped once the breakouts are under control, after which patients rely on another treatment option to maintain their clear complexion. Isotretinoin is an oral derivative of vitamin A commonly used to treat acne vulgaris. It is an effective treatment option for rosacea that has not responded well to other forms of therapy. Isotretinoin is an oral medication only available via prescription from a dermatologist. Metronidazole is a topical medication, known as gel or cream, prescribed for decades to manage and treat rosacea symptoms, including facial redness and acne-like breakouts.

Laser treatments, such as the V-Beam laser, are the gold-standard laser treatment for improving the appearance of facial redness associated with rosacea. This laser treatment operates on a wavelength of light that exclusively targets any red pigment in the skin, leaving surrounding skin tissue undamaged. Most patients require a short series of V-Beam laser treatment sessions; each spaced approximately one month apart. Everyone affected by rosacea has unique symptoms of rosacea, flare-up triggers, and skincare needs. The most effective rosacea treatment plan is customized by a board-certified dermatologist, such as Dr. Michele Green in NYC, to suit your skin condition best.

How can I clear up my rosacea?

Currently, there is no known cure for rosacea. However, it is possible to manage the symptoms of rosacea through various oral medications, topical treatments, and lifestyle behaviors. To help prevent future flare-ups, avoid common triggers like excess sun exposure, spicy foods, extreme hot or cold weather, alcohol, and stress. The best way to clear up rosacea is by consulting an experienced board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Michele Green. Dr. Green is a board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience treating some of the world’s most discerning individuals. She is consistently identified as one of NYC’s best healthcare providers by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green will work with you to create a customized rosacea treatment plan for clearing up your complexion that best suits your needs.

Does insurance cover rosacea treatment?

Most oral antibiotics and topical prescriptions for rosacea are covered by insurance. Laser treatments for rosacea, such as the V-Beam laser, are usually considered cosmetic by insurance companies and are typically not covered. The best way to determine whether your insurance will cover your rosacea treatment is by contacting your provider by calling the phone number on your insurance card.

How to get started with rosacea treatment today

For many, rosacea symptoms can be a source of incredible frustration and negatively impact their overall quality of life and self-esteem. Although rosacea is a chronic skin condition that can not necessarily be cured, numerous non-invasive treatment options can help manage various symptoms of rosacea so that you can look and feel like the best version of yourself. It can be a challenge to determine which unique combination of in-office procedures, prescription medications, and specially-formulated skincare products are best suited to addressing your particular skin concerns. Luckily, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an internationally renowned board-certified dermatologist with over two and a half decades of experience providing her patients with the best non-invasive treatment options, including managing and treating rosacea. Dr. Green is consistently voted one of New York City’s best dermatologists by Castle Connolly, New York Magazine, and Super Doctors for her dedication to her patients and expertise. Dr. Green utilizes the most innovative treatment techniques and cutting-edge treatment modalities at her private dermatology office in Manhattan’s Upper East Side neighborhood. When you consult with Dr. Green to develop a personalized rosacea treatment plan, she will collect a thorough medical history, physically evaluate your skin condition, and discuss your specific skin concerns and ideal cosmetic results. Dr. Green will then work with you to customize a treatment plan that is best suited to helping you achieve a clear, smooth, healthy complexion that lasts. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Green and learn about non-invasive treatment options for rosacea and skin rejuvenation, contact us online or call the NYC office at 212-535-3088.