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Rosacea is a common disorder that affects the facial skin of millions of Americans. This “blushing disease” is characterized by redness on the cheeks, nose, chin and/or forehead. The redness come from small visible dilated superficial blood vessels on the face. Often, individuals that suffer from rosacea also develop bumps or pimples on the face, and watery or irritated eyes. Although the cause of rosacea is unknown , research has advanced the range of treatment options which manage the symptoms of rosacea.
Mirvaso is the latest FDA-approved topical therapy for the treatment of persistent facial redness seen in rosacea. Mirvaso works differently than other prescription rosacea medications. This an alpha 2-adrenergic agonist was first used in ophthalmology for the treatment of specific types of glaucoma. The medication specifically stimulates adrenergic receptors on blood vessels causing them to constrict. In the skin, Mirvaso targets those superficial dilated blood vessels that contribute to the flushed and “reddy” appearance of rosacea skin. The medication is approved for use in adults 18 years or older, and the once-daily application can have clinical affects that can last up to 12 hours. “it’s nice to have another effective options for patients,” says Dr. Miriam Hanson, board-certified dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology.
While medical therapies and Metronidazole 500mg tablets are effective, patients can also improve the daily management of rosacea by learning and avoiding the most common triggers which include sun exposure, emotional stress, hot weather or changes in temperature, alcohol consumption, spicy foods, and hot beverages. “I’m not the Grintch that stole everything good in life,” says Dr. Hanson. “I just tell people if they know they flush every time they have a glass of red wine, maybe try white!”
Laser Treatment
“When medical treatment fails, there are other options,” explains Dr. Hanson. The Vbeam vascular system is a pulsed dye laser that targets visible blood vessels and the smaller dilated blood vessels that cause the redness associated with rosacea. The Vbeam laser can also help reduce the inflammatory component of rosacea which include bumps, swelling, pimples and can improve skin texture. Most patients will require more than one laser treatment to completely resolve their associated facial redness and skin concerns.
Skin Care
Using the appropriate skin care can be an effective way to help manage rosacea and improve the overall look and feel of the skin. “The key to Rosacea skin care is cleanse, prevent and protect,” says Dr. Hanson. Sanova Dermatology carries Skinceuticals an advanced skincare line backed by science and an understanding of skin biology. Contact Sanova Dermatology to learn about their Rosacea Skin Care Packages specifically designed to help control the symptoms of rosacea.
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