Rosacea responds well to laser and light treatments–good news for those suffering from the condition. Rosacea is a skin condition that causes redness in the face, visible blood vessels, and sometimes highly visible bumps on the face that look like acne.
For many, the condition can be embarrassing. Experts aren’t entirely sure what causes it, though factors from a bacteria known as H. Pylori to microscopic mites have been considered. Hence, a “cure” for rosacea hasn’t been found. But it’s been found recently that lasers and lights might just be the answer.
Targeting the Capillaries
Using lasers at wavelengths 595 nm, the capillaries that contribute to the appearance of rosacea can be destroyed, lowering the redness of the condition.
Intense Pulsed Light, meanwhile, is another way to treat rosacea. Chromophores which also contribute to the redness are destroyed–and eventually reabsorbed into the body.
Of course, the treatment has to be closely monitored. Too much pressure can compress vessels, diminishing the treatment’s effectiveness, and possibly leading to scarring.
Am I a Good Candidate for Laser or IPL Treatment for Rosacea?
Not all patients are good candidates for this treatment. For example, if your skin is tanned, the treatment won’t be as effective. The same goes for if you’re anemic–the reason being less hemoglobin to target.
Even worse, if the patient is on any time of NSAID, the treatment might be made less effective.
Different degrees of rosacea may more or less warrant some sort of cosmetic treatment. Patients who suffer simply from redness may decide to opt out, while patients who tend to develop the pimple-like structures will often be more inclined to seek more advanced treatments like laser therapy or IPL. Overall, it’s up to the patient to decide what’s best for them.
Want to know more about treating Rosacea with IPL? Contact Integrated Dermatology of Reston today to schedule your appointment.
