For many, the redness caused by rosacea can be quite embarrassing. There seems to be no particular trigger, even when the skin is clear upon waking, just stepping outside can cause redness. Other times, people find that their skin simply turns red and stays red with only the slightest reason. This redness is difficult to hide and can cause a lack of self confidence.

Rosacea currently does not have any permanent cures, but a diagnosis from a trained cosmetic dermatologist in Detroit can offer some answers to previously unexplained redness. There may not be a cure, but those suffering from rosacea still have a reason to hope thanks to a number of helpful treatment options available that can reduce redness and soothe irritation.

Visit a Cosmetic Dermatologist to Get Diagnosed

It is often difficult to diagnose rosacea because it mimics so many other conditions. It is necessary to see a physician at a cosmetic dermatology office to get a firm diagnosis because it can also be mistaken for acne, post-workout redness, or a ruddy complexion due to sun exposure. Those patients suffering from rosacea and acne will have an even harder time getting a diagnosis because the inflammation from acne is difficult to separate from the redness of rosacea.

Those who think they may be suffering from rosacea should ask themselves a few key questions before setting up a consultation with a dermatologist:

  • After working out, how long does the skin stay red and flushed?
  • Does the skin blush profusely due to embarrassment?
  • Does the redness from either of these incidents linger for more than an hour?

There are a few other key things a cosmetic dermatologist may ask patients to look out for. Redness after any of these types of activities should be reported when discussing rosacea:

  • Time outdoors on sunny or windy days
  • Drinking a caffeinated beverage
  • Eating foods that are moderate to very spicy
  • Eating dairy products
  • Drinking red wine
  • Drinking beverages that are hot

A dermatologist can diagnose rosacea and then work with their patients to create an individualized treatment plan that best suits the patient’s lifestyle.

The Most Common Types of Rosacea

This inflammatory condition is chronic, and it can occur on any of the body parts that are located above the waist. However, there is more than one kind of rosacea, and skincare experts have narrowed it down to four main types. Each type of rosacea has a unique appearance and can vary in severity. The treatment options are also dictated by the type of rosacea that is presenting. These types include:

  • Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea: This type of rosacea presents with the classic spots on the face as well as with tiny streaks of red across the nose, on the forehead, and on the cheeks. This is the mildest of the forms, but it can still be very visible. Often people with this type of rosacea will look like they are flushed with fever. Treatment options for this mild type of rosacea include topical creams, oral antibiotics, and laser options. The laser only gives a superficial treatment
  • Papulopustular Rosacea: Many people with this type of rosacea first see their dermatologist for help with acne treatments. However, upon arrival in the office, they are diagnosed with papulopustular rosacea instead. This type of rosacea presents with dilated vessels and redness in the central portion of the face, but it also shows up as little red bumps and pustules along the scalp, chin, forehead, nose, and cheek. Papulopustular rosacea is often treated with oral and topical antibiotics. Plus, there is a soothing topical medication that is given. If there are bumps that are very severe and painful, the cosmetic dermatologist can give steroid injections to ease the symptoms.
  • Rhinophyma: This form of rosacea is characterized by an enlarged nose that is bumpy and bright red. The first form of treatment that the cosmetic dermatologist might suggest is an oral antibiotic and a topical treatment. Laser therapy is often required to return the nose to its previous shape, but it may also be necessary for the dermatologist to partner with a plastic surgeon to re-sculpt the nose if the rhinophyma is progressed or very severe.
  • Ocular Rosacea: For some people, rosacea doesn’t just affect the skin, it also affects the eyes. Ocular rosacea leaves the eyes irritated and red. Plus, it often causes the patient to feel like there is grit or dirt in the eyes. While ophthalmology clinics may be more suited for treating this condition than cosmetic dermatology clinics, the dermatologist can help with the management or offer a referral. Ocular rosacea can be quite dangerous because of the chronic inflammatory response. If this was to go untreated for long periods of time, it could lead to progressive vision loss and other eye disease or complications.

Will Rosacea Treatment be Covered by Insurance? 

Rosacea is considered a medical condition and many treatments can be covered as they are not considered cosmetic treatments by most insurance carriers. In general, topical and oral medications prescribed by the dermatologist will be covered.

Grosse Pointe Dermatology and Cosmetic Center

There currently isn’t a cure for rosacea, but a cosmetic dermatologist in Detroit can help patients manage their symptoms. Patients seeking rosacea relief will have access to an individualized treatment program for each particular type of rosacea. Partnering with an experienced dermatologist can greatly relieve the redness and uncomfortable symptoms brought on by rosacea. Request a consultation today with Dr. Balle to learn more and determine if your symptoms may be more serious or require more extensive treatments.