Rosacea Treatment in Sarasota, FL
Sometimes confused with acne, rosacea is a common, inflammatory chronic skin condition. It may manifest itself as either all-over redness or red patches with prominent spider veins, eruptions, pimples, and swelling. Common sites for rosacea are the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Symptoms might include a tendency to blush or flush easily, a bulbous “W.C. Fields” nose, burning or stinging of the face, and bloodshot or irritated eyes. Rosacea treatment procedures vary depending on the condition.
If you are bothered by facial redness and think it could be rosacea, visit the Sarasota skincare professionals at SkinSmart Dermatology® for effective treatment options. Healthy, beautiful skin begins at SkinSmart Dermatology®. Request an appointment online, or click the button below to give us a call.
What Causes Rosacea?
No one knows exactly what causes rosacea. It is believed that more than 15 millions people in the United States are diagnosed with rosacea. While sometimes misunderstood, learning more about the signs and symptoms can help you get treatment faster and tend to this condition. We do know that people who are more likely to develop this condition meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Fair skinned with blond hair and blue eyes
- Female
- Blush or flush easily
- Age 30 to 50
- Family history of rosacea or severe acne
These conditions can occur as early as your late 20’s as well. Early signs of Rosacea are often ignored as they are usually assumed to be a different, less serious condition. Without medical attention and treatment, rosacea can become worse. Knowing what can possibly trigger rosacea, if you have it, and what to do about it is important for prevention and reducing the effects of rosacea.
What are Rosacea Symptoms?
Since this condition can be easy to confuse with another condition, many patients do not pay attention to the warning signs that come with rosacea. A study has shown that almost 80% of people in the United States are unaware of the signs and symptoms of rosacea, which can be why many who have the condition dont seek the proper treatment.
Facial redness is a big sign that you may have rosacea, which is often confused with blushing. Blushing easily and often is also another sign of rosacea, which may wave off to be no big deal. Other signs and symptoms include hypersensitive skin, burning skin, and facial spider veins. If you have any of these symptoms, schedule an examination with Dr. Elizabeth Callahan to get a final verdict.
How is Rosacea Diagnosed?
Sarasota dermatologic surgeon Dr. Callahan diagnoses rosacea by a thorough examination of the skin and eyes. Triggers are different for each individual but commonly include:
- Alcohol
- Spicy food
- Hot beverages
- Stress
- Sun exposure
- Exercising and/or sweating in hot weather
- Wind and extreme cold
- Saunas or steam rooms
While the causes of rosacea are mostly unknown, these are a few known triggers that can cause rosacea flare ups and make the condition worse. It is important to note that Rosacea is heritable and can be passed on through family genes. If you have a family history of rosacea, then some of these triggers can cause or worsen the condition.
Common Treatment Options
Since rosacea varies from person to person, Dr. Elizabeth Callahan will work with you to develop a treatment plan that works for you. Common treatment options include:
- Topical medications to calm the skin and minimize rosacea bumps.
- Oral antibiotics to help clear up more severe flare-ups.
- Laser therapy to reduce visible blood vessels, redness, and thickened skin caused by rosacea.
Our team can also recommend rosacea-friendly skincare products that are gentle, non-irritating, and specifically designed for sensitive skin.
Lifestyle Tips to Manage Rosacea
Even if you get professional treatments, there are plenty of things you can do at home to manage your rosacea symptoms. Here are some tips to help keep your rosacea under control:
- Protect your skin from the sun: Sun exposure is one of the most common triggers for rosacea. Always wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days. Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses also provide extra protection.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Hot weather, saunas, and hot baths may lead to flare-ups. Try to stay cool in the summer and avoid too much exposure to cold wind and harsh weather in the winter.
- Watch your diet: Spicy foods, hot drinks, and alcohol are known to aggravate this condition. Keeping a food diary can help you pinpoint which foods may be triggering your symptoms.
- Manage stress: Try to find ways to relax and manage your stress levels. Regular exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help.
- Gentle skincare: Use fragrance-free, non-abrasive skincare products formulated for sensitive skin. Stay away from exfoliating products or harsh cleansers that can irritate your skin.
Rosacea Myths and Facts
There are many misconceptions about rosacea that make it hard to find the right treatment. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths and give you the facts:
Myth: Rosacea is just adult acne.
Fact: While rosacea can look like acne due to red bumps and pustules, it’s a completely different inflammatory condition. Rosacea mainly affects facial blood vessels and often includes persistent redness and visible veins, which aren’t usually found in acne.
Myth: Rosacea is caused by poor hygiene.
Fact: Rosacea is not caused by a lack of cleanliness. It’s a chronic skin condition likely related to genetic and environmental factors. Keeping your skin clean is important, but over-washing or using harsh products can make rosacea worse.
Myth: Only people with fair skin get rosacea.
Fact: Rosacea is more common in fair-skinned individuals, but it can actually affect people with all skin types and tones. It may be less noticeable in darker skin, but the symptoms and triggers are the same.
Myth: Rosacea is contagious.
Fact: Rosacea cannot be spread from person to person. It’s a non-infectious skin condition that results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.
Why Choose SkinSmart Dermatology?
At SkinSmart Dermatology®, you’ll work with Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, a top-rated dermatologist with years of experience helping people feel confident about their skin. She’s recognized nationally for her expertise, and when you visit, you’ll get straightforward care for both medical and cosmetic concerns, including rosacea.
Dr. Callahan is double-board-certified in dermatology and Mohs surgery. Whether you're looking for skin cancer treatment or a way to reduce wrinkles, Dr. Callahan will help you get your healthiest skin possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Rosacea Go Away on Its Own?
No, rosacea is a chronic condition that doesn’t go away without treatment. While you’ll be able to better manage symptoms, you should still seek professional care to control flare-ups.
Can Rosacea Affect My Eyes, and How Is It Treated?
Yes, ocular rosacea can cause dry, irritated eyes. This can usually be treated with eye drops, oral medications, and proper eyelid hygiene.
Is Rosacea More Common in Women Than Men?
Yes, rosacea is more common in women, but men tend to experience more severe symptoms, especially thickened skin.
How Can I Tell If I Have Rosacea or Just Sensitive Skin?
Rosacea usually involves persistent redness, visible blood vessels, and flare-ups triggered by things like sun, stress, or certain foods. Sensitive skin might react to products but usually doesn’t cause long-term redness or flare-ups.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
At SkinSmart Dermatology located in Sarasota, our team of healthcare professionals are dedicated to helping you reach your health and wellness goals. Our mission is to help you reclaim your best life, and help you reach a healthier and happier you. With state-of-the-art technology and equipment, we ensure the best possible results, service, and care!
If you are experiencing rosacea and are seeking treatment, visit SkinSmart Dermatology in Sarasota. Our providers, including Dr. Elizabeth Callahan, are experienced in rosacea treatment and have been serving the Sarasota community for over 15 years. At SkinSmart Dermatology, we treat a wide variety of skin problems and care for every individual patient with a personal touch. Schedule an appointment by calling 941-308-7546 or fill out the form on our contact page.
