Laser Treatment for Redness in Jacksonville, FL

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes redness and small bumps on the face. It can often be mistaken as acne or other skin conditions, which is why proper diagnosis is essential to receiving the best treatment.  Dermatology Southeast in Jacksonville, FL offers numerous advanced solutions, such as laser therapy and prescription medications to brighten the skin and decrease signs of rosacea. This skin condition can occur in almost anyone, but it is most common among middle-aged women with fair skin. Although there is no cure, rosacea is very manageable with the right treatment. If left untreated, it can worsen over time, causing symptoms to persist and flare up for days or weeks. Skilled dermatologist Dr. Mary Pentel will evaluate your skin for rosacea and create a personalized treatment plan to minimize your symptoms.

Though the precise cause of rosacea is unknown, Dr. Pentel believes that it is brought on by a combination of environmental and hereditary factors. Some triggers that may aggravate rosacea include alcohol, spicy foods, hot beverages, dairy products, extreme temperatures, stress, strenuous exercise, and certain medications. People of Celtic or Scandinavian ancestry seem to have a greater predisposition to rosacea. Patients with rosacea often have other relatives who suffer from either severe acne or rosacea. People who have bad acne also have a greater chance of developing rosacea. 

Signs of rosacea can vary from mild to severe. The tell-tale indication of rosacea is facial redness. In the majority of patients, the central part of the face can become visibly red. The blood vessels of the cheeks and nose may swell and become visible. Other signs include red and swollen bumps on the face that look like acne. Sometimes the lumps contain discharge. The skin may also feel hot and tender to the touch. Approximately half of rosacea sufferers have eye problems, such as dryness, irritation, and red, swollen eyelids. In rare circumstances, your nose may look enlarged, as rosacea can cause the skin around the nose to thicken, resulting in a bulbous appearance.

Even though there isn't currently a cure for rosacea, there are a number of treatment options available, like antibiotics which reduce inflammation. Rosacea medications come in pill form or as a cream, lotion, or gel. Pills tend to be more successful in providing rapid results but can cause more side effects. If antibiotics aren't effective, acne drugs such as isotretinoin work for some patients. Surgery may be necessary in cases where the symptoms become permanent, such as enlarged blood vessels or inflammation that won't subside with other treatments. Laser surgery or electrosurgery can minimize the appearance of blood vessels and remove excessive tissue buildup across the nose.

Rosacea not only causes physical symptoms but also psychological ones, as you may feel self-conscious in public or fear social interaction because of the redness. If you think you have rosacea, please contact Dermatology Southeast in Jacksonville, FL to schedule a consultation so you can put your best face forward. Our skilled team is highly knowledgeable in the latest treatments for rosacea and can provide the personalized care you need.