Skip to main content
Dr. Mamelak is moving!

In Accordance with §165.5 of the Texas Administrative Code, Dr. Mamelak is informing all patients that he is leaving Sanova Dermatology. His last day in the clinic will be May 31, 2024.

(512) 837-3376

All About Rosacea and How to Manage It

Home|Blog | All About Rosacea and How to Manage It

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects about 14 million people or 1 in 20. This condition causes facial blood vessels to enlarge, creating a flushed appearance on the face. It can also cause flaking, drying, or pimples.

Rosacea can flare because of sunlight, heat, stress, harsh chemicals (like the ones found in hairspray), alcohol, and spicy food. The cause of rosacea is unknown but it may be caused by hereditary and environmental factors.

Rosacea causes red or pink facial skin, dilated blood vessels, and small red bumps that can resemble acne. It is common among fair-skinned people. People with rosacea also have increased levels of inflammatory proteins (cathelicidins) in their skin.

The 4 main types of rosacea

  1. Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea features flushing and redness with visible blood vessels.
  2. Papulopustular rosacea involves redness, swelling,  and breakouts that look like acne.
  3. Phymatous rosacea causes the skin to thicken with a bumpy texture.
  4. Ocular rosacea features irritation and redness in the eyes and is accompanied by swollen eyelids. It may resemble a sty.

How should you care for your skin with Rosacea?

A good skincare routine can help with:

You should always wash your face after you wake up and before you go to bed. It is also important to use a moisturizer every day. Make sure you use rosacea-friendly products from your cleanser to your makeup. A vitamin C serum under your moisturizer will help freshen your face and fight free radicals.

You should avoid any products containing alcohol, camphor, fragrance, menthol, lactic acid, glycolic acid, or sodium lauryl sulfate. You should use cream instead of lotion and never use astringent or toner. Avoid scrubbing or exfoliating your face, as you could irritate your skin. Avoid washcloths, facial sponges, or exfoliating products.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help reduce flare-ups?

Of those who said they had made lifestyle changes in a study done by Rosacea.org, 57% reported a reduction in flare-ups and 38% said they helped flare-ups somewhat. Common things that were reduced or rid of were hot baths, hot drinks, wind, exercise, and cold weather.

What medical treatments are available?

Topical prescription medication is available, such as Mirvaso, Rhofade, Azelex, Metrogel, and Oracea. Lasers and light treatments may also be used and can have longer-lasting effects. IPL (Intense pulsed light), BBL (Broadband Light), VBeam (Pulse Dye Laser) and PDT (Photodynamic Therapy) are all light treatments that may be used to treat rosacea.  Botox may also be used to stop blood vessels from dilating. If you are dealing with rosacea, contact me to discover which treatment options are right for you.