Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing redness, flushing, visible blood vessels (telangiectasia), and sometimes acne-like bumps. It often begins with a tendency to blush or flush more easily than other people. Over time, the redness can become more persistent and noticeable, especially on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.

There are four subtypes of rosacea:

  1. Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea – persistent redness and visible blood vessels.

  2. Papulopustular Rosacea – redness with acne-like breakouts.

  3. Phymatous Rosacea – thickened skin, often on the nose (rhinophyma).

  4. Ocular Rosacea – affects the eyes, causing dryness and irritation.

Rosacea is more common in individuals with fair skin, typically between the ages of 30 and 50, but it can affect anyone.

 

What causes rosacea?

While the exact cause of rosacea is still unknown, several factors are believed to contribute, including:

  • Genetics – it often runs in families.

  • Immune system response – particularly an overreaction to environmental or internal triggers.

  • Demodex mites – microscopic skin mites that live on the skin and may be more prevalent in people with rosacea.

  • Environmental triggers – such as sun exposure, extreme temperatures, spicy foods, alcohol, and stress.

  • Abnormal blood vessels – increased blood flow in the skin may contribute to the persistent redness.

Rosacea is not contagious, but it can significantly affect self-confidence and quality of life if left untreated.

 

If you're looking for a highly effective, non-invasive treatment option, the Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser offers a great solution for managing rosacea symptoms, particularly redness and visible blood vessels.

 

How does rosacea laser treatment work?

The Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser uses targeted light energy to:

  • Penetrate deep into the dermis without damaging the outer skin layer.

  • Break down dilated capillaries and redness caused by rosacea.

  • Stimulate collagen production, improving overall skin texture and tone.

 

This laser is especially effective for vascular lesions and diffuse redness, helping to reduce the appearance of rosacea-related symptoms over a series of treatments.

Does the treatment hurt?

No! Most patients describe the sensation as a mild tingling or warmth

 

You'll probably hear a snaping sound as we target the vessels with the laser, that's completely normal and not painful.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms & individual skin response. On average 3–4 sessions spaced about 4 weeks apart is usually recommended for optimal results.

In cases of more severe redness or extensive vascularity, 4-6 sessions may be needed. 

Will I see immediate results?

Some individuals may see a reduction in redness and visible blood vessels within a few days to a couple of weeks after their first treatment. For others it may take around 4-6 weeks for noticeable results 

Can anyone have rosacea laser treatment?

Unfortunately there are some medical conditions that would make laser treatements unsafe, these are;

  • Lupus
  • Immunosuppressive diseases (such as aids/HIV)
  • Keloid scarring
  • Bleeding/clotting disorders
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Anticoagulant/blood thinning medication
  • Uncontolled diabetes 
  • Skin cancer 
  • Melasma or psoriasis in the treatment area
  • Photosensitivity, or any sensitivity to the sun that causes a rash or allergic reaction
  • Gold therapy or methotrexate
  • Immunosuppressive medications
  • Liver disease, such as hepatitis
  • History of hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation

There are also some medical conditions and medications that prevent laser treatments in the short-term, but providing you have none of the above, you could commence treatment once they were resolved. these are;

  • Preghnancy & breastfeeding
  • Active skin infections (e.g. eczema, herpes/colds sores)
  • Oral Isotretinoin or other prescription acne medication (such as Accutane/Roaccutane) in the last 6 months
  • Medical chemical peel, dermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing or face lift at site of treatment in the last 6 months
  • Light sensitive medications/herbal supplements, or perfumes/cosmetics/skincare that affect sensitivity to light
  • Use of NSAID's in the last week
  • Surgery or anaesthetic in the last 2 weeks
  • Open lacerations or abrasions in the treatment area
  • Botox or fillers in/under the treatment area
  • Chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or radio frequency treatment in the last 4 weeks
  • Some types of antibiotics

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do before a treatment?

  • No sun-tanning or self-tanners 3-4 weeks prior to treatment  (Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun bathing, etc), and wear sunscreen when out in the sun 

  • Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)

  • Discontinue use of retinol, glycolic acid, or salicylic acid 7 days before treatment

  • Avoid alcohol, smoking and strong painkillers for 24 hours prioir to your appointment 

  • Ensure your skin is clean and free of any makeup or lotions before arriving

     

Is there anything I should or shouldn't do after treatment?

Yes, there are some important ways to take care of your skin and aid healing after treatment, these are;

  • Avoid direct sun exposure (sunbathing, holidays, sun beds) for 14-30 days post-treatment
  • Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) daily
  • Avoid active skincare (retinols, AHAs, BHAs), as well as any products containing high levels of vitamin A and glycolic acid for at least 5 days
  • Keep the treated area clean and moisturised with a gentle product
  • Don’t exfoliate you skin within the first 7 days as it may cause irritation
  • Do not pick or scratch at any scabs, crusting, flaking skin or blisters
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, hot showers/baths, saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs for a minimum of 48 hours
  • Do not apply makeup for 24–48 hours, or until skin sensitivity has fully resolved
  • Avoid harsh skincare or cosmetics on the area until fully healed
  • Apply cool compresses as needed for discomfort or swelling