Once Rosacea occurs, it very rarely resolves on its own. In most cases, the condition worsens with time. Rosacea is best treated by a dermatologist. The condition requires patience and time to be treated
Over the counter products: there are many products sold over the counter which are marketed as cures for Rosacea. Many of these chemicals sold in cosmetic stores contain acids and alcohols and unknown number of other chemicals. These creams cause more harm to Rosacea because of the irritation they cause to the skin. Most physicians do not recommend the use of cosmetic creams for the treatment of Rosacea. The least amount of chemicals on the face is
the best way to treat Rosacea.
There is no cure for Rosacea but there are medicines which can decrease the signs and symptoms. In addition, self care is also an important part of the treatment procedure. The following treatments can help diminish the Rosacea.
Self Care: Frequent washing of the face with a bland soap is essential to wash out the oils. It does not matter what type of soap is used. One should avoid soaps with fragrances which may further irritate the skin. The face should then be gently wiped clean.
Picking at the Rosacea should not be done as it can cause scarring.
Sunscreens: Sun can worsen Rosacea and excessive sun exposure should be avoided. Sunscreens are a must if one is outdoors.
Medications
Metronidazole: This medication has been widely used to treat Rosacea. The pills are taken orally until the Rosacea or the symptoms resolves. The medication is also available as an ointment and must be applied twice a day.
Azelaic acid: This mild acid can help reduce the redness and inflammation. It is available as a prescription medication.
Oral antibiotics: Rosacea generally does not respond to topical antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are the preferred treatment. They tend to work faster and are more effective but have to be taken for at least 2-4 weeks. Some of the most common prescription oral antibiotics include tetracycline, minocycline, doxycycline and erythromycin.
Isotretinoin: The vitamin A derived drug, Accutane, is extremely effective in the treatment of Rosacea it is used in the severe cases of acute Rosacea. Because of expense and its adverse effects, Accutane is generally prescribed for the more severe and resistant cases of Rosacea. The drug acts by decreasing excess cell turn over and decreasing the oil production from the glands.
Women should be cautioned about the adverse effects of this drug and all prescriptions are also monitored by the FDA. The drug has the potential to cause birth defects. Close monitoring of the drug is essential to ensure that the side effects do not occur.
Hormone replacement therapy: In some women nearing menopause, hormone therapy has been found to relieve the symptoms of Rosacea. The therapy is short term and does relieve the facial flushing and redness on the nose
The duration of your treatment depends on the type and severity of your symptoms, but most individuals do notice some improvement within 1-2 months.
Maintenance therapy: Once the Rosacea clears, maintenance treatment can be continued with topical ointments
Surgery: In the most severe cases of Rosacea with a deformed nose, surgery may be an option. However, this is the last option and only undertaken when all other measures to treat Rosacea have failed. The large prominent blood vessels on the nose can be treated with laser or electrosurgery. Both can remove the excessive tissue and reduce the size of the nose. The final result is a more pleasing nose with an improved facial appearance.
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