Rosacea
Understanding the Cause & Advanced Treatment Options
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterised by facial redness, flushing, visible capillaries, and, in some cases, acne-like breakouts. It most commonly affects the central face — cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead — and may fluctuate over time.
While rosacea cannot be “cured,” it can be carefully managed with a tailored treatment approach.
What Causes Rosacea?
The exact cause of rosacea remains multifactorial and incompletely understood. Contributing factors may include:
1. Vascular Dysregulation
Individuals with rosacea often have hyper-reactive superficial blood vessels that dilate easily, leading to flushing and persistent redness.
2. Chronic Inflammation
An exaggerated immune response within the skin contributes to ongoing redness and irritation.
3. Genetic Predisposition
Rosacea can run in families, particularly in individuals with fair or sensitive skin.
4. Skin Barrier Dysfunction
Compromised barrier function increases sensitivity to environmental triggers.
5. Demodex Mite Proliferation
Higher densities of Demodex folliculorum mites have been observed in some rosacea patients.
Common Triggers
Rosacea tends to flare in response to specific stimuli, including:
· Sun exposure
· Heat and temperature changes
· Alcohol (particularly red wine)
· Spicy foods
· Emotional stress
· Certain skincare products
Identifying and avoiding individual triggers forms part of long-term management.
How Is Rosacea Treated?
Management depends on the subtype and severity of rosacea. A personalised treatment plan may include:
Medical Topical Therapy
Prescription topical medications may reduce inflammation and background redness.
Oral Medication
In moderate or inflammatory cases, oral therapy may be considered under medical supervision.
Vascular Laser Treatment
Persistent redness and visible capillaries may respond to vascular laser therapy.
The Cutera Excel V+ is designed to target superficial blood vessels contributing to facial redness. By selectively heating abnormal vessels, it may assist in reducing persistent erythema and visible telangiectasia.
This technology is commonly used for:
· Diffuse facial redness
· Broken capillaries
· Flushing-related vascular changes
Treatment plans typically involve a series of sessions depending on severity.
Laser Genesis
Laser Genesis, delivered via the Excel platform, gently heats the dermis to support collagen stimulation and improve background redness and skin texture. It may be used in selected cases as part of a comprehensive rosacea program.
Skincare & Barrier Repair
Medical-grade skincare focused on calming inflammation and restoring the skin barrier is a cornerstone of rosacea management. Aggressive or overly active products are typically avoided.
Early Treatment Matters
Untreated rosacea may progress from intermittent flushing to persistent redness and, in some cases, skin thickening (particularly of the nose). Early medical intervention may help reduce progression and improve long-term skin stability.
Important Information
Rosacea is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management. Treatment outcomes vary between individuals. All medical procedures carry potential risks and benefits, which will be discussed during consultation.
