Understanding Rosacea: A Complete Guide!

Rosacea is a common skin condition affecting millions worldwide. It causes redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes acne-like breakouts, often impacting self-esteem and quality of life.

Primarily affecting the face, rosacea presents with varying symptoms and severity for each individual. At Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, we believe understanding the types of rosacea, its triggers, and available treatments empowers individuals to manage the condition confidently.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of rosacea, identify common triggers that worsen flare-ups, and outline effective medical and lifestyle treatments to help you regain control of your skin and confidence.

What are the main types of Rosacea?

There are four main forms of rosacea, and unlike other skin conditions, patients can show symptoms of several types at once. To create a suitable treatment plan, we need to examine the patient’s skin, discuss their health history, and find the best options for their needs. 

This process begins by identifying which type or types of rosacea are present. The four types of rosacea are:

Although these types primarily affect the face, head, and neck, rare cases may involve other parts of the body. Researchers suggest that increased inflammation is a common underlying factor.

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea (ETR)

ETR is the most recognized form of rosacea, characterized by persistent facial redness and flushing, typically on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.

• Symptoms: Occasional redness, dilated blood vessels, and warm, tingling, or stinging sensations.
• Progression: Without treatment, redness can spread to the scalp, neck, and chin, becoming more frequent and prolonged.
• Additional Features: Dry or scaly skin in affected areas is also common.

Papulopustular Rosacea

Often referred to as acne rosacea, this type combines facial redness with acne-like breakouts.

• Symptoms: Painful blemishes (papules and pustules) concentrated in the center of the face but sometimes affecting the scalp, neck, chest, or shoulders.
• Triggers: More common in middle-aged adults, especially women, and often accompanied by sensitive skin, burning sensations, and oily or dry patches.
• Progression: Dry patches can thicken over time, forming rough plaques.

Phymatous Rosacea

Phymatous Rosacea leads to thickened, bumpy skin, particularly around the nose.

• Symptoms: Skin buildup, enlarged pores, and redness with visible blood vessels.
• Progression: May cause rhinophyma, a condition where the nose appears bulbous due to untreated skin thickening.
• Demographics: More common in men and one of the rarer, more severe forms of rosacea.

Ocular Rosacea

This form affects the eyes, causing irritation and inflammation.

• Symptoms: Red, bloodshot eyes, swollen eyelids, and bumps resembling styes.
• Additional Issues: Watery, burning eyes with dryness, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light.
• Challenges: Often misdiagnosed as unrelated to rosacea due to its ocular focus. Visible blood vessels on the eyelids and cyst-like bumps can be key diagnostic indicators.

Common Rosacea Triggers

Rosacea symptoms are often worsened by specific triggers, which vary from person to person. Understanding these triggers can help manage flare-ups. Here are some common factors to watch out for:

Environmental Factors 

• Sun Exposure: UV rays can aggravate rosacea by dilating blood vessels. Protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) and wear protective clothing.
• Extreme Weather: Hot or cold temperatures and wind can irritate the skin. Use a heavier moisturizer during cold weather and shield your face when outdoors.

Lifestyle Influences  

Diet: Spicy foods, hot beverages, and histamine-rich items like aged cheese and wine are common triggers. Keep a food diary to identify your triggers and incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables into your diet.

Alcohol: Red wine and other alcoholic drinks often worsen symptoms. Limit or avoid alcohol if it triggers flare-ups.

Stress & Hormones: Emotional stress and hormonal changes can exacerbate rosacea. Practice stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, or regular exercise.

Skincare and Cosmetics  

Harsh Products: Skincare items with alcohol, astringents, or fragrances can irritate sensitive skin. Opt for gentle, hydrating products formulated for sensitive skin.

Cosmetics: Heavy or irritating makeup can worsen symptoms. Choose non-comedogenic, fragrance-free products, and remove makeup gently to prevent irritation.

Rosacea Diagnosis and Consultation

Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective rosacea treatment. While symptoms may seem straightforward, rosacea varies by type, requiring tailored treatment plans. A professional diagnosis ensures the right approach to managing your condition.

During a consultation, your dermatologist will:

• Examine your skin.
• Review your medical history.
• Discuss possible triggers, such as lifestyle, diet, and skincare routines.
  A visual examination will help determine the specific type of rosacea and guide the development of a personalized treatment plan.

How can Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre help?

With over 25 years of experience, Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre specializes in advanced rosacea treatments. Our team offers personalized consultations to assess your skin’s needs, recommend cutting-edge treatments, and provide guidance on lifestyle adjustments.

We take a holistic approach, combining modern technologies with proven methods to address both the symptoms and underlying causes of rosacea.

Take the first step toward clearer, healthier skin. Book a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists at Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre today. Let us help you regain confidence in your skin—contact us now to schedule your appointment!

What treatments are available for Rosacea?

Rosacea treatment options vary for each individual. The primary goal is to relieve symptoms and prevent them from worsening. Treatment options include:

Medicines to Treat Rosacea

Oral and topical medications effectively manage redness, bumps, and flare-ups. These include:

Metronidazole

A topical antibiotic used for mild to moderate rosacea.

• How it works: Reduces inflammation and redness.
• Timeline: Visible improvements in 3–6 weeks, with ongoing progress over months.

Azelaic Acid  

A natural compound that fights inflammation and bacteria.

• How it works: Reduces redness and papules.
• Timeline: Results appear in 4–8 weeks.

Ivermectin

Targets Demodex mites, which can worsen rosacea.

• How it works: Reduces inflammation and papules.
• Timeline: Noticeable improvement within 4 weeks.

Clindamycin  

A topical antibiotic often used alongside oral treatments for severe cases.

• How it works: Reduces bacterial growth and inflammation.
• Timeline: Results in a few weeks; full benefits may take months.

Doxycycline  

An oral antibiotic prescribed for moderate to severe rosacea.

• How it works: Combines anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects.
• Timeline: Improvement in 2–4 weeks, with long-term benefits.

Other Medications

• Sulfacetamide: Combines with sulfur for added anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Minocycline and Tetracycline: Alternatives to doxycycline for severe cases.
• Oxymetazoline and Brimonidine: Topicals that narrow blood vessels to reduce persistent redness quickly (effects within 1–2 hours).

Advanced Procedures for Rosacea

For patients requiring additional solutions, these treatments offer effective results:

Laser Treatment

How it works: Focused light targets visible blood vessels and redness.

Best for: Severe redness and blood vessels unresponsive to topical creams.

Timeline: Results visible after multiple sessions, lasting several months.

Advanced Laser Treatments for Rosacea at Vancouver Laser

At Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, we provide advanced solutions for managing rosacea, including Picoway® and Clearlift™ laser treatments.

• Picoway®: This innovative laser technology delivers quick, precise pulses to target redness and stubborn pigmentation, breaking them down to reveal smoother, more even-toned skin.
• Clearlift™: A gentle yet effective option, Clearlift™ improves skin texture and reduces pigmentation with no downtime, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Both treatments are highly effective in addressing the visible symptoms of rosacea, such as redness and uneven tone, helping to create a balanced, healthier-looking complexion.

BBL™ – Broadband light

How it Works: BBL™ utilizes broad-spectrum photothermal energy to target redness, discoloration, and visible blood vessels. This treatment works by heating the skin to eliminate pigmented cells and broken capillaries, promoting cell renewal and collagen production for a brighter, more youthful appearance.

Best For: BBL™ is highly effective for moderate to severe pigmentation, sun damage, redness, rosacea, and broken capillaries.

Timeline: Noticeable improvements are typically seen after 3–5 sessions, spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Results continue to improve with regular maintenance.

Trusted BBL™ Treatments at Vancouver Laser

With over 15 years of experience, Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre is a trusted provider of BBL™ treatments across B.C., including Delta, Richmond, Burnaby, and Surrey.

BBL™ is a cutting-edge advancement in IPL therapy and is widely regarded as the “Gold Standard” in skincare. It effectively addresses pigmentation, sun damage, rosacea, broken capillaries, and freckles, helping you achieve a brighter, more even complexion.

At Vancouver Laser, we recommend incorporating BBL™ into your skincare routine for radiant, even-toned skin. Experience the transformative benefits of BBL™—a proven essential for glowing, healthy skin.

Dermabrasion  

How it works: Removes the top layers of skin to address thickening and bumps.

Best for: Severe rosacea, particularly rhinophyma (thickened nose skin).

Timeline: Smoother skin after recovery, which may take several weeks.

Electrosurgery

How it works: Electrical currents remove thickened skin and visible blood vessels.

Best for: Severe cases, especially unresponsive to other treatments.

Timeline: May require multiple sessions for optimal results.

Conclusion 

Rosacea can be challenging, but with the right knowledge and treatments, you can effectively manage symptoms and improve your skin’s health. Understanding the types of rosacea, identifying your triggers, and exploring personalized medical and lifestyle solutions can help you reduce flare-ups and regain confidence.

At Vancouver Laser & Skin Care Centre, our expertise and advanced technology allow us to provide tailored care for your unique needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from redness, visible blood vessels, or other symptoms, our dedicated team is here to support you.

Don’t let rosacea hold you back. Take the first step toward healthier, calmer skin today. Contact us to schedule your consultation and start your journey to confidence and clarity.