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.