Rosacea, also called acne rosacea, is a very common skin condition characterized by a red face. Rosacea causes redness of the face that eventually leaves visible permanently enlarged red blood vessels and capillaries, and a red-faced appearance especially on the cheeks, nose, and mid-face. Over time, red bumps or acne lesions also occur, and rosacea can also affect the eyes, a condition called ocular rosacea. In some people, after many years, rosacea can lead to Rhinophyma, a profuse proliferation of excess skin on the nose, a condition immortalized by Jimmy Durante and Wally Fields, both movie stars who suffered from Rhinophyma.
Recently, the use of a new light therapy called IPL or Intense Pulsed Light has revolutionized the treatment of rosacea. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments are very effective in closing the enlarged blood vessels that cause the red face appearance seen in rosacea patients. IPL is gentler than laser treatments, with less discomfort and no visible signs of treatment, such as bruising, which are so common after some laser treatments.
What is rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin disease that affects more than 40 million Americans. The cause is unknown, but heredity and light or fair skin color are important predisposing factors. The signs of this condition are:
o Facial blush-Redness of the face is usually the first sign. Flushing is particularly likely to occur after eating spicy foods, drinking alcohol and coffee, and during emotional stress.
o Persistent redness-The red face appearance does not go away. It may look like a sunburn that lingers.
o Acne bumps and pimples- Over time, red bumps, pustules, and acne lesions appear. These bumps can be painful and do not respond to typical acne treatment.
o Visible blood vessels on the face-Over time, small red blood vessels are visible on the skin of the face. They are most common on the nose, cheeks, and chin, but are also seen on the forehead.
There are common triggers that can precipitate an outbreak and can be avoided to help control outbreaks. Common triggers are:
-Solar exposition
-Emotional stress
-Hot weather
-Wind
-Heavy Exercise
-Alcohol consumption
-Hot baths
-Spicy food
-Irritating skin care products
How does IPL or Intense Pulsed Light get rid of red face?
IPL or Intense Pulsed Light uses a bright flash of visible light to close the blood vessels and capillaries that cause the flushing and red face appearance. IPl uses a filter that only releases a specific color of light, one that is only absorbed or picked up by the blood vessels in the skin, to reach the skin. Therefore, IPL light rays only affect the dilated blood vessels in the skin and do not harm normal skin. When the IPL light energy is absorbed by the dilated blood vessels, the dilated blood vessels are injured and close. This removes blood vessels, capillaries, and the red appearance of the face. I use Starlux IPL LuxGreen, which uses the 650nm light range, which is ideal for removing dilated blood vessels and reducing skin redness. The results are truly remarkable.
IPL is gentler than other commonly used lasers. Lasers often cause bruising and sometimes skin burns that can leave white marks on the face. These issues have limited the usefulness of lasers on the face and have made IPL the treatment of choice for this condition.
How is the IPL treatment?
IPL treatments are very quick, easy and relatively painless. Protective shields, such as sunglasses, will be worn to protect your eyes. A Soothing Gel will be placed on your skin for your comfort and to enhance the effectiveness of the IPL treatment. We do not use topical anesthesia, because it is not necessary and can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment.
The IPL treatment head will be placed against your skin and a bright flash of light will be activated to treat the red areas. The entire face will be treated with a series of flashes. You will feel a little pop when the flash hits your skin, but it is very tolerable.
After treatment, cold compresses will be placed on your skin for your comfort. Your skin may look pink for an hour or so, but you won’t see any very visible bruising or injury to your skin, as is often the case with laser treatments.
You’ll be able to go back to work and your skin usually looks pretty normal after a few hours.
When will I see the results?
We look for and see a change or darkening of the reddened areas immediately after the treatment. Some very small areas are closed during the first treatment.
However, the larger areas and skin redness gradually subside over about 5 weeks after IPL treatment. This gradual improvement is a gentler method than laser treatment and takes time. This gentler approach avoids complications and that is why the IPL method has become the preferred method.
For moderate to severe cases, 3 treatments scheduled 5 weeks apart are required. This is because it is impossible to cover and close all affected areas equally during each treatment. As treatments progress, there are fewer areas to treat and more complete removal is possible.
Which skincare products are best for rosacea patients?
It is very important to avoid sun damage and other forms of skin inflammation. A good non-comedogenic sunscreen is important. We avoid irritating creams like Retin A, Tazorac and strong acid peels. Vitamin C serum is soothing and has anti-inflammatory properties that are very helpful.
MetroGel is an essential component of any skin care program if you have redness and dilated capillaries on your face. Obagi Skin Care’s new Rosaclear System combines several effective ingredients and is a very effective new skin care system for patients.
Where can I find IPL treatments?
Board certified dermatologists and plastic surgeons are the experts in lasers and IPLs. You will need to search the internet and do your homework to find a board certified doctor who offers laser and IPL services and is interested in treating facial redness and acne.
You need a complete systemic approach that includes IPL treatments, proper skin care, and medical treatment.
You are much more likely to find a complete suitable treatment at a doctor’s office. I advise against looking for these light treatments in Spas and Medicinal Spas that do not have a doctor present. Not all IPL machines are created equal, and those used in a board-certified medical office are likely to be more effective and used with more experience.
Do your homework and find a trustworthy specialist.