Understanding Rosacea

Hello, my name is Dr. Thomas Knackstedt, and I’m a board-certified dermatologist at Peak Skin Center. In this video, I want to talk a little bit about rosacea.

Rosacea is a common, chronic inflammatory skin condition that most often affects the central face. It can cause persistent redness, frequent flushing, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps that may look similar to adult acne. Some people also notice burning, stinging, or sensitivity, especially with certain skin-care products. Rosacea can also affect the eyes, which is called ocular rosacea, and that can cause dryness, irritation, a gritty sensation, or redness of the eyelids.

One of the most important things to know about rosacea is that it tends to flare with triggers. Common triggers include heat, sun exposure, spicy foods, alcohol, hot beverages, exercise, stress, and harsh or fragranced skin-care products. Keeping a simple trigger diary for a few weeks can be helpful, because triggers can be different from one person to the next.

The good news is that rosacea is very treatable, and treatment is often customized based on which features are most prominent. A strong foundation is gentle skin care: a mild cleanser, a fragrance-free moisturizer, and daily sunscreen. Mineral sunscreens, such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, are often better tolerated for sensitive rosacea-prone skin. For the bumps and inflammation, prescription topical medications can be very effective. If the rosacea is more active, oral medications can be used for a period of time to calm flares and reduce tenderness and swelling. For persistent redness and visible blood vessels, laser and light-based treatments can help reduce the background redness and improve the appearance of vessels over time. For ocular symptoms, treatment may also include eyelid hygiene, lubricating drops, and coordinated care when needed.

Rosacea is a chronic condition, so the goal is usually control rather than a permanent cure, and most patients do best with a consistent routine and periodic adjustments. With the right plan, symptoms can be kept very manageable.

I hope this information is helpful, and thanks for watching.

Rosacea can cause persistent redness and discomfort, but our team at Peak Skin Center is here to provide relief. Our experienced dermatologists offer comprehensive rosacea treatments across Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina, tailoring each plan to suit individual needs. With a focus on medical dermatology, we aim to reduce rosacea symptoms and restore skin clarity. Schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations to begin your journey to clearer, more comfortable skin.