At a recent meeting, newly available treatments for rosacea were welcomed. Additionally, it was pointed out that dermatologists and other physicians are reconsidering and rethinking about some older therapies, while waiting from promising new developments.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is very similar to acne; in fact, is often referred to as adult acne. Rosacea is characterized by tiny red bumps, lines, or pimples that usually show up on the central area of the face. Additionally, rosacea can look a lot like dilated blood vessels.
Often people do not know that they are suffering from rosacea because of its similarity to acne, often manifesting through rosy or red cheeks, blushing, and sunburn-like symptoms. Unfortunately, it is a chronic condition with no known cure. Those suffering from this condition can experience temporary flare-ups that will dissipate. However, the rosacea will continue to return. Due to the chronic nature of rosacea, the new therapies have been well received.
Treatments for Rosacea
Topical options for certain types of rosacea include α-adrenergic agonist brimonidine. While some patients receiving this treatment may experience worsening redness, there are strategies that can help decrease the redness caused by this treatment, including using good skin care routines that include barrier repair. Also, it is advised that papulopustular rosacea be under control prior to this treatment. Patient expectations are managed by advising patients about the potential for redness. Alternatively, the redness will generally dissipate within 24 hours of the treatment.
Another option for rosacea’s background redness is the off-label use of other treatments, including Botox. Some success has been seen through the use of this treatment.
Other studies have shown effectiveness in the use of ivermectin 1% cream. This cream offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Also, this technique was shown to be better tolerated.
Another therapy showing promise is the use of oxymetazoline 1% cream. This drug has been submitted to the FDA for approval as a rosacea therapy and is expected to earn approval sometime in 2017. Clinical trials have shown satisfactory results among study group participants.
St. Louis Lipo
Says Dr. Wright of the St. Louis Lipo Center, “I look forward to seeing more promising therapies for rosacea for my patients.”
If you would like to know more about rosacea and its treatments, please give us a call today. We will schedule a consultation where we can discuss the potential options for treating rosacea.
