Are You Wondering about Redness?

• Posted on: Jan 15 2018
• By: Laser and Mohs Surgery of New York

Blushing is something we do when we are embarrassed or nervous. Flushing is something that may occur when we take a steamy sauna or finish an intense workout. These are not instances that we expect to occur randomly or after our morning cup of coffee. If redness that localizes on your cheeks, forehead, or chin is a persistent problem, you may want to explore the idea that you may have rosacea.

Rosacea

Rosacea is a chronic dermatologic condition that may cause diffuse redness or intense flushing as superficial blood vessel dilate in response to some trigger. In addition to redness, rosacea may involve symptoms that are similar to acne: pustules and bumps.

Better Understand Your Skin

Accurate diagnosis is necessary for rosacea to become manageable. Here, we offer a few points that may help you

• Rosacea is not acne, but it looks like it. Because of the similarities, some people who have rosacea believe they have acne. The problem is that what helps acne can create more problems for rosacea.
• Heredity may be relevant. Rosacea is one of those conditions that may run in families, even though each person’s triggers may be unique. If you look back at family photos and see a sea of red cheeks that look just like yours, there is a chance that it could be a family line of rosacea.
• Red skin needs moisture. Where there is rosacea, there is a disrupted barrier covering the skin. We need a healthy barrier to retain moisture. Without it, the skin will require more care in the form of gentle cleansing and frequent moisturizing with appropriate products.
• Management is the name of the game. Currently, there is no cure for rosacea. There are, however, modalities to control flare-ups. Oral and topical medications may be prescribed to decrease inflammation. These may be prescribed together and may coincide with in-office treatments like photorejuvenation. Light and laser therapies have demonstrated promising results in minimizing redness and visible veins caused by rosacea.
• Everyone is unique. If you are handed a diagnosis of rosacea, your journey has begun, and we are here to help you. Laser & Mohs Dermatology of New York customizes treatment to meet your needs in our Midtown Manhattan office. We also explore what may be triggering flare-ups so you can avoid those factors as much as possible. Finally, we can discuss skin care to support irritated skin.

Find out how to manage your skin. Call 212-391-8600.

Posted in: Medical Dermatology