Rosacea is a condition of the skin characterized by patches of redness and inflammation. It is most commonly found on the cheeks or nose but can also be seen on the forehead, chin, eyelids, arms and chest. Rosacea can cause broken blood vessels, irritation of the eyes and other issues for patients affected by this skin condition.

At New York Dermatology Group, we can provide medical dermatology services tailored to suit your needs. If rosacea is posing issues for you or someone you love, we are here to help.

People with very fair skin and older people are most likely to show signs of rosacea. Women are more prone to this inflammatory skin condition than men. However, when men do develop rosacea, it may be more severe.

In the beginning stages of rosacea, symptoms are typically mild and may be mistaken for other skin conditions. As the condition progresses, however, the symptoms become more pronounced. Below are Rosacea symptoms:

• Redness of the face, especially on the cheeks or across the bridge of the nose, is often the first sign of rosacea.

• Blood vessels may be more visible on the face.

• Rosacea can sometimes mimic the appearance of acne with small bumps and pimples in the affected areas.

• As the inflammation associated with rosacea worsens, skin typically becomes thicker. This can affect the shape and appearance of the nose and cheeks.

• Irritation of the eyes can occur in certain forms of rosacea.

There are four types of rosacea, each of which can be treated by our team of Board-Certified Dermatologists. Each type of rosacea presents its own symptoms and its own special challenges for our patients and our dermatology team:

• Ocular Rosacea causes red or bloodshot eyes and can result in pain or irritation of the eyes. Cysts and styes are also complications that can result from ocular rosacea.

• Phymatous Rosacea causes thickening and scarring of the skin. This type of rosacea most often affects the nose to cause it to become bulbous and misshapen. Men are more likely to develop phymatous rosacea than women.

• Papulopustular Rosacea is sometimes mistaken for acne because of the whiteheads that often accompany this form of the inflammatory condition. Blemishes caused by papulopustular rosacea are often accompanied by redness and flushing of the surrounding areas of the face.

• Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea is characterized by redness of the face and enlargement of blood vessels. This type of rosacea tends to spread over time to cover more of the skin on the face.

Researchers have not yet discovered the underlying causes of rosacea. Some scientists believe that skin sensitivity and exposure to ultraviolet light can combine to cause inflammation in vulnerable individuals. Genetic factors are likely to contribute to the development of rosacea. Environmental stressors may also play a role in causing or worsening the inflammation associated with this skin condition.

Our team will design a treatment plan that is tailored to the type of rosacea you have and the results you want to achieve. We offer a variety of dermatological treatments. Some of our most effective treatment options include the following:

• Topical treatments are often the first course of treatment for rosacea. Brimonidine is used for ocular rosacea and to reduce redness of the skin. Topical antibiotics may also be used to treat some forms of rosacea, including metronidazole. Retinoids and azelaic acid can also be used to treat blemishes associated with rosacea.

• Oral medicines for rosacea include tetracyclines and other antibiotics. Isotretinoin may also be used to reduce blemishes and to address issues with skin texture associated with rosacea.

• Laser treatments for rosacea include Vbeam Perfecta sessions, which can reduce the appearance of blood vessels and redness to assist rosacea patients with looking and feeling their best every day. Our dermatologists at New York Dermatology Group can provide you with laser treatment options to improve your appearance and the health of your skin.

• Light therapies, including Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments, are non-invasive ways to enhance the texture and appearance of skin affected by rosacea. These options can help clear blemishes and restore the soft and supple texture of your skin to help you feel much more confident in your appearance.

Our team at the New York Dermatology Group can provide you with treatment plans and solutions designed specifically for your needs. We can combine various medications and treatment options to achieve the best results for your unique set of needs. Our in-depth knowledge of rosacea and our experience in treating this serious medical condition can allow you to enjoy the best outcomes.