How to Treat Rosacea
Rosacea is a common skin condition that causes redness, flushing, and sometimes bumps on the face. While there is no cure, many treatments can help control symptoms and improve your skin's appearance. Working with a dermatologist is the best way to find what works for you.
Topical Treatments
For mild to moderate rosacea, doctors often start with creams or gels applied directly to the skin. Metronidazole is one of the most common options. It reduces redness and bumps and is usually applied twice daily.
Ivermectin cream (Soolantra) is applied once daily and works well for bumps and pimples. Azelaic acid is another option that helps with both redness and bumps. For flushing and redness, brimonidine gel and oxymetazoline cream can temporarily reduce visible redness for up to 12 hours.
Oral Medications
When topical treatments aren't enough, oral medications may help. Low-dose doxycycline is commonly prescribed because it reduces inflammation without working like a traditional antibiotic. In 2024, the FDA approved a new oral minocycline (Emrosi) specifically for rosacea, giving patients another effective option.
Laser and Light Therapy
Laser treatments can reduce visible blood vessels and persistent redness. Pulsed dye laser is one of the most effective options. Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is gentler and may require more sessions but also improves skin texture. These procedures don't prevent new blood vessels from forming, so repeat treatments may be needed.
Avoiding Triggers
Identifying and avoiding your personal triggers is key to managing rosacea. Common triggers include sun exposure, hot weather, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, and intense exercise. Keeping a diary of your flare-ups can help you spot patterns.
Daily Skin Care Tips
Use gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers made for sensitive skin. Avoid products with alcohol, menthol, or witch hazel, as these can irritate rosacea-prone skin. Always wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, since sun exposure is the most common trigger for flare-ups.
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if you notice persistent redness, bumps, or visible blood vessels on your face. Early treatment can prevent rosacea from getting worse. If your eyes feel irritated, gritty, or look red, you may have ocular rosacea, which needs prompt treatment to protect your vision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for rosacea?
Can rosacea be cured permanently?
How long does rosacea treatment take to work?
What foods should I avoid with rosacea?
References
- Rosacea: Diagnosis and Treatment. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rosacea/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353820
- Rosacea: Diagnosis and Treatment. Available from: https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea/treatment/diagnosis-treat
- Management Options for Rosacea. Available from: https://www.rosacea.org/patients/management-options-for-rosacea
- FDA Approved Treatments for Rosacea. Available from: https://www.rosacea.org/patients/management-options/fda-approved-rosacea-treatments
- Know Your Rosacea Triggers. Available from: https://www.rosacea.org/patients/know-your-rosacea-triggers
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new skincare treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications.