"Lori on Lasers" - April
By Lori Keller
Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic
 

We here at the clinic have been seeing more and more patients with Rosacea concerns and thought that a listing of the more common questions would be of interest to readers.
 

This skin disorder is largely treatable and no one should assume that his/her Rosacea is beyond help and has to be lived with. Vancouver Laser Skin Care Clinic offers complementary consultations for Rosacea sufferers.

Question #1: What is Rosacea?

Answer: Rosacea is a common (affecting approximately 16 million Americans), hereditary, long term skin disorder that most often affects the forehead, cheekbones, nose and chin. Most Rosacea sufferers are adults between the ages of 30 and 65. However, Rosacea has been known to afflict children. The people most prone to acquiring Rosacea are fair skinned adults, especially women.

Question #2: What causes Rosacea?

Answer:  Rosacea is caused by the dilation of tiny blood vessels close to the surface of the skin. This dilation causes the skin to break out with blotchy red areas called papules. In the beginning stages, this redness may come and go on its own. If left untreated, Rosacea may develop into severe inflammation and be accompanied by skin eruptions. In addition, the skin tissue can swell, thicken and become tender and sensitive to the touch.
 

Medical experts generally agree that vascular abnormalities are the central cause of Rosacea. There is also medical evidence indicating that many patients have a genetic propensity for this skin disorder.

Question #3: if I have Rosacea, what daily precautions should I be practicing?

Answer: (1) Wash with water that is lukewarm, not hot. (2) Use gentle, non-abrasive cleansers applied with the fingers. Do not use a cloth. (3) Blot dry, do not rub, the skin with a thick pile cotton towel. (4) Wait for the skin to dry completely before applying products. (5) If you wear makeup, choose only oil free products. Always apply light layers of makeup as many concealers and foundations act almost as a mask sealing in bacteria and oil inside the pores. (6) Apply at least an SPF 8 sunscreen everyday to prevent UV induced symptoms. The sun is a leading cause of Rosacea flare ups. (7) Monitor your diet. By avoiding alcohol, hot beverages and/or spicy foods you can greatly reduce the frequency and severity of flare ups. (8) When you do have a flare up seek medical advice: do not wait for it to “get better”. This will help minimize the duration of the flare up and help to prevent long term skin damage.

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