Rosacea is a common skin condition that can sometimes be mistaken for acne, other skin problems or natural ruddiness – and is characterized by blushing or flushing and visible blood vessels in your face, as well as small, pus-filled bumps. Although the exact cause of rosacea is not known, it is believed that rosacea is caused by a combination of hereditary and environmental factors. In addition, there are certain factors that can trigger rosacea in some people by increasing blood flow to the surface of the skin – with some triggers including hot foods or beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, extreme temperatures, sunlight, stress, anger or embarrassment, as well as certain medications. Rosacea is not contagious, and is most common in those with fair skin. If left undiagnosed and untreated, rosacea can worsen over time.
If you are experiencing redness of the face it is important to have it examined and evaluated, since there are several possible conditions that can cause this (some of which may be serious) and early evaluation and treatment can make a big difference in treatment of the condition. Although there is no cure for rosacea, there are a number of treatments that a dermatologist can offer that can effectively manage the symptoms. In addition to effective prescription topical medications, oral antibiotics and laser treatments, there are a number of other new treatments available for rosacea that that can reduce redness and enhance your overall appearance. In addition, Dr. Ros can work with you on incorporating important lifestyle changes to manage rosacea, including avoiding factors that aggravate the condition, such as emotional stress, sunlight, hot beverages, spicy foods, alcohol, and extreme temperatures.
While rosacea can’t be cured, it can be effectively managed. Dr. Ros and her team can help you find the treatment that works best for you to manage and control symptoms of the condition such as minimizing facial redness and acne-like bumps. Contact us today at either our Rockaway office or our Clifton office at (973) 472-1000 to schedule an appointment, or email us
Rosacea is one of the most common skin conditions affecting Americans today. Characterized by blushing or flushing, visible blood vessels in the face, and in more severe cases, pus-filled bumps and/or inflamed, thickened skin, it can take a major toll on self-confidence and quality of life.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, receiving an accurate diagnosis is critical. Rosacea may increase the likelihood of developing other health conditions and can worsen over time if not properly managed.
At Dermatology Institute and Laser Center, Dr. Ros and her highly experienced team specialize in the accurate diagnosis and treatment of rosacea. To learn more and receive a customized treatment plan based on your specific symptoms, schedule an initial consultation at our Clifton or Rockaway clinic!
What Is Rosacea?
Acne rosacea, commonly known as just rosacea, is an inflammatory skin condition that most often impacts the skin around the nose, cheeks, and forehead, but can also occur on the chin, neck, ears, back, or other parts of the body. Easily confused with natural ruddiness, adult acne, or a variety of other skin conditions, its symptoms can include some or all of the following:
- Inflamed skin
- Blushing and/or flushing
- Visible blood vessels
- Pus-filled bumps
- Thickened skin
Rosacea often occurs in cycles and rosacea sufferers may experience periods of clear skin interspersed with mild, moderate, or major flare-ups. The condition can be categorized into the following 3 main types:
Erythematotelangiectatic (ETR) Rosacea – This is a form of mild rosacea characterized by visible, dilated blood vessels and easy flushing of the skin.
Papulopustular Rosacea – Papulopustular rosacea involves moderate symptoms, including the development of pus-filled bumps (papules) on the skin’s surface.
Phymatous Rosacea – This is the most severe rosacea type and is characterized by skin thickening that may cause puffy cheeks and/or a bulbous, red nose.
Why Rosacea Happens
The exact cause of rosacea remains unknown, but it is thought that the development of the condition is related to immune system function as well as hereditary and environmental factors. Below are some characteristics that may be associated with a higher likelihood of developing rosacea:
- Having fair skin
- Being female
- Being between the ages of 30-60
- Having the bacteria H. pylori present in the stomach/gut
- Having a family history of rosacea
In addition, specific environmental triggers may cause rosacea symptoms to flare up. These triggers may include:
- Hot foods or beverages
- Spicy foods
- Alcohol and/or caffeine
- Sun exposure
- Exposure to temperature extremes
- Strong emotions such as stress, anger, or embarrassment
- Certain cosmetics or medications
While rosacea may run in families, it is not contagious and can not be passed from one person to another through any kind of contact.
Treatment Options
Living with rosacea may increase your risk of developing other medical conditions including diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and more. In addition, the condition may worsen over time if not proactively managed. Accurate diagnosis and proper treatment are key.
There is no cure for rosacea, but symptoms of the condition can be effectively managed with treatment options including:
- Lifestyle changes (including identifying and avoiding rosacea triggers)
- Topical creams
- Oral antibiotics
- Laser therapy (targeting blood vessels below the skin to even skin tone and stimulate collagen production)
After carefully evaluating your rosacea symptoms, Dr. Ros and her team will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan which may incorporate one or more of the treatment options listed above. At Dermatology Institute and Laser Center, our goal is always to tailor rosacea treatment to your specific needs, circumstances, and health goals. Book an appointment today to learn more!
Results And Recovery
With the right rosacea treatments, symptoms can be effectively managed over the long term with rosacea flare-ups being drastically reduced or eliminated altogether. The results of rosacea treatment and the recovery time required depend on the type of treatment administered as well as the overall health status of each individual patient. Generally speaking, it takes between 1 and 3 days to recover after rosacea laser treatments. However, for a more accurate recovery timeline estimate based on the specifics of your case, speak directly with Dr. Ros.
About Dr. Adriana Ros
Dr. Adriana Ros, D.O., F.A.O.C.D., has been practicing medical and cosmetic dermatology for more than 15 years. Licensed in both New Jersey and New York, she is known for her innovative treatment techniques and warm, compassionate patient care. Dr. Ros currently holds the title of Chief of the Dermatology Department at Hackensack UMC Palisades Hospital and is a clinical professor at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine. She and her highly experienced team have successfully worked with hundreds of patients living with rosacea and look forward to developing a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs, circumstances, and health goals.
Patient Testimonials
Book an Appointment Today
Ready to treat rosacea symptoms ranging from persistent redness and flushing to broken blood vessels, papules, and inflamed, thickened skin? Dr. Ros and the team Dermatology Institute and Laser Center in Clifton and Rockaway, New Jersey are ready to help. Contact us today to book an appointment and take your first step on the road to recovery. We look forward to working with you!
