Laser Treatment for Rosacea

Rosacea is a skin disease which generally affects the face. People with rosacea have dry, itchy skin and pimples or bumps are visible on the face. This is a skin problem marked by redness and swelling on the face. In this condition, tiny red veins appear on the facial skin. Exposure to the sun can aggravate rosacea. A recent survey demonstrated that people affected by rosacea, usually have a light complexion. Although there are a number of ways to treat rosacea, the most preferred option is laser treatment.

Lasers are an effective way to treat rosacea. Laser treatment for rosacea may be slightly uncomfortable, but it is definitely not painful. A brief stinging sensation is experienced which can be well tolerated by the patient. The laser therapy has been in use for years and is considered to be the primary treatment for rosacea. The pulsed dye laser is commonly used to reduce signs of rosacea. In this form of treatment, powerful beams of light are bombarded on the lesions and visible blood vessels that are just under the skin. The energy of the lasers produces heat, that builds up in the vessels. This eventually destroys the abnormal vessels.

Laser therapy has been very effective in treating the following symptoms of rosacea

• Visible blood vessels
• Extensive redness
• Enlarged nose and cheeks

Many patients experience significant improvement in the appearance of their skin after just one session of laser treatment. A recent study revealed that 2 sessions of laser therapy decreased the redness by 40 to 60% in people suffering from severe rosacea. Although laser therapy has side effects, they are very few and can be successfully treated. The side effects are temporary, that generally last for 2-3 days. People with dry and itchy skin have found great relief using this therapy. Lasers can greatly reduce flushing, burning and swelling observed in rosacea patients. Multiple sessions are generally required to get the best possible results. With every session, there is a consistent decrease in the symptoms of rosacea. Pimples observed in this skin condition, can also be reduced with laser treatment.

How long a patient will have to undergo the laser treatment to recover, will depend on the severity of the disease. It is advisable to visit a doctor who has extensive experience in laser treatment. The doctor may assess the skin condition and accordingly decide the number of sessions required to improve the skin texture. Most people undergoing laser treatment experience dramatic results that can be long-lasting, if sun exposure is avoided. Skin care is necessary to maintain the results. Doctors generally recommend application of a strong sunscreen daily, after treatment. Treating rosacea with lasers requires skill to get the desired result. Over treatment develops circular marks on the skin. Hence it is essential to consult a physician who is highly skilled in using lasers.

Other lasers such as Nd:YAG laser, diode laser and KTP laser are also used for the treatment of dilated blood vessels. Some patients suffering from longstanding rosacea have thickened skin on the cheeks and nose. In such cases, erbium:YAG and CO₂ laser helps eliminate the thickened skin and improve the shape of the nose.

Laser is indeed the best treatment option for rosacea, as it can rejuvenate the damaged skin and bring back a more youthful appearance.