Rosacea is a common but not altogether understood skin disease that caused redness on the nose, cheeks, forehead and cheeks. Sometimes skin eruptions like acne occur on the red areas. The disease is not caused by alcohol abuse, as was previously believed, but drinking can make the symptoms worse.
“We talk a lot about avoiding triggers with Rosacea,” explains Dr. Miriam Hanson, dermatologist and skin care expert at Sanova Dermatology. “Avoiding excessive sun exposure, abstaining from alcohol, especially red wine, and staying away from spicy foods are some of the best ways to prevent flares.” But sometimes a patient’s best efforts can’t prevent redness and breakouts.
“It’s true there are a variety of therapies are available,” says Dr. Adam Mamelak, board-certified dermatologist in Austin, Texas, “everything from topical remedies to oral pills, even laser and light-based therapies are available. But even with an effective regimen, Rosacea can also at time be an extremely stubborn condition to treat.”
With breakthrough flushing, redness, bumps or enlarged oil glands, patients will sometimes ask is there anything else they can do? “This is often when Accutane comes up,” says Dr. Hanson.
Accutane, or its generic name isotretinoin, is a Vitamin A based oral medication that is most commonly used for severe and recalcitrant acne on the face and body. Low doses of Accutane have been used in severe cases of rosacea when other treatments have proven ineffective. It has proven effective in reducing the size and number of skin eruptions as well as reduce the skin changes, especially on the nose.
Accutane is not for everyone, and there are well documented side effects that Accutane can cause. Women who take the drug are required not to be pregnant nor become pregnant during the course of the medication because of the very real possibility of birth defects. “This, and very dry skin is really what we worry about,” explains Dr. Hanson. “As long as the patient understands that they cannot get pregnant while on treatment, and uses lots of moisturizers and emollients, the drug is usually very well tolerated.”
“The other side effects are much more uncommon,” says Dr. Mamelak. The medication can damage the liver, especially if patients drink alcohol during treatment, and elevated levels of blood lipids such as cholesterol have been documented. Other side effects can include muscle aches and joint pains, decreased vision at night time, headaches and sun sensitivity. Some reports have linked the drug to inflammatory bowel disease and depression, though there has not been any definite proof of this association. “Really, these are the reasons why we monitor patients so closely with follow up exams and blood tests while they are on treatment. If a patient can’t tolerate any of the side effects, they simply stop taking the drug and it is out of their system in less than 48 hours. Any and all side effects generally resolve shortly after that time.”
In addition to the physical side effects, the impact of medications on mental health must be considered. For individuals struggling with conditions such as depression, finding an effective treatment can be challenging. Traditional therapies and medications may not always provide the relief needed, prompting patients to explore alternative options. One such alternative gaining attention is ketamine therapy, which has shown promise for some individuals with treatment-resistant depression. At facilities like Avesta Ketamine Wellness, patients can access specialized care that focuses on this innovative approach to mental health treatment.
Ketamine therapy offers a different mechanism of action compared to conventional antidepressants, which can lead to rapid and sometimes profound improvements in mood and well-being. It’s particularly noteworthy for its potential to address severe symptoms quickly, providing a new avenue of hope for those who have struggled with depression despite multiple treatment attempts. The therapy is typically administered in a controlled environment where patients are monitored closely, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
While ketamine therapy offers a promising alternative for some, it’s important to consider other complementary treatments that can support mental health recovery. Hypnotherapy, for instance, is another innovative option gaining attention for its potential to help individuals manage depression, anxiety, and other emotional challenges. By utilizing deep relaxation techniques and focused concentration, hypnotherapy helps individuals access their subconscious mind to uncover and address the root causes of their distress. This approach can be particularly effective for those who may not have responded well to traditional therapies or medications.
Seeking support in this area, services from HypnoGuide.ca provide specialized care from experienced hypnotherapists who tailor treatment to each person’s unique needs. Whether it’s breaking free from negative thought patterns, enhancing self-esteem, or managing overwhelming emotions, hypnotherapy offers a personalized approach to healing. This form of therapy not only complements other treatments but can also provide individuals with powerful tools to regain control over their mental health and overall well-being.
In the broader landscape of mental health care, counseling remains a foundational pillar of emotional healing and personal growth. Whether someone is navigating long-standing emotional wounds or the more recent challenges of daily stressors, having a skilled counselor to talk to can make a world of difference. Counseling provides a safe, confidential space where individuals can process their feelings, gain perspective, and develop strategies to move forward. This consistent support can be especially valuable when used in conjunction with other treatments like ketamine therapy or hypnotherapy.
Modern mental health services have evolved to meet the diverse needs of today’s fast-paced world, and online counselling is one of the most accessible and flexible options available. This format allows individuals to connect with licensed professionals from the comfort of their own home, removing common barriers such as travel, scheduling conflicts, or geographic limitations. With it, individuals can maintain regular therapeutic contact, which is crucial for sustained progress, especially during times of crisis or transition. The convenience and consistency it offers are changing the way many people engage with mental health care.
A person seeking a prescription of Accutane should consult with an experience dermatologist who can explain the benefits and risks of taking the drug.
Contact Us
To schedule a consultation with one of our skin care experts, please contact us today at Sanova Dermatology.
Follow Sanova Dermatology on Google+
Like Sanova Dermatology on Facebook
Check out Sanova Dermatology on Twitter