Rosacea?

To conclude Rosacea Awareness Month, Dr Emilie Bourgeault, dermatologist, answers your questions regarding this skin condition.

What is rosacea?

Rosacea is a skin disorder affecting the central part of the face and whose symptoms include redness, dryness, pimples and sometimes even pain.

What are the usual treatments?

Dermatologists normally prescribe:

• Oral antibiotics, mainly for anti-inflammatory action against pimples;
• Creams (antibiotic- or Ivermectin-based) to treat pimples;
• Vasoconstrictor cream to reduce redness.

For dilated blood vessels, the dermatologist can suggest a laser treatment.

Can I do something on a day-to-day basis to alleviate my symptoms?

You can control some of these factors, which are known to worsen rosacea symptoms:

• Temperature changes
• Sun exposure
• Hot beverages
• Spicy food
• Exercise
• Irritating skin products

It is therefore important to use sensitive-skin care products, be gentle with the skin (be extra careful with microdermabrasion and exfoliation) and apply a sun protection with minimum SPF 30 every morning.

For any questions related to your personal situation, you can ask advice from our certified dermatologists at dermago.ca.