As one of the recommended treatment options for rosacea sufferers, laser and light therapies are showing amazing results when it comes to reducing redness, skin thickening, and the appearance of blood vessels. The National Rosacea Society’s recently updated its guidelines on treatment options for rosacea, which included a panel’s findings on oral and topical medications, light devices, ocular rosacea recommendations, and even lifestyle choices to help reduce flare-ups.
When it comes to laser or light treatments, the panel concluded the most effective types includes ablative lasers such as electrosurgery, cold steel, CO2 and erbium, and radio frequency. Intense pulsed light (IPL), pulsed dye lasers, and potassium titanyl phosphate lasers, which are most widely used in dermatology practices, have also been shown to effectively reduce flushing and redness. These are non-ablative options, which means the surrounding skin is left undamaged with very little discomfort.
How Do Lasers Work?
The heat from the laser’s wavelengths of light collapse the tiny blood vessels reducing the visible signs of redness. The best part: It’s effective and relatively painless. According to the American Academy of Dermatologists, patients typically see a 50-70% reduction in visible blood vessels.
For those with skin thickening, a dermatologist might recommend laser resurfacing instead. This procedure stimulates the formation of elastin and collagen deep inside the dermis while ablating superficial layers of the skin. While laser resurfacing offers effective results, it is often paired with a prescribed medication to prevent recurrence.
What to Expect After Treatment
It’s not uncommon to experience temporary redness after laser treatment. This typically lasts a couple of weeks. Skin tightening, itching, mild discomfort can also happen. You’ll want to let your doctor know if you have concerns. What you want to make sure of is to be sun smart. Where protective clothing and sunscreen at all times. Avoiding the sun’s harmful rays will help to prevent any scarring.
To discuss your rosacea laser treatment options with a board-certified dermatologist, schedule a telemedicine consultation appointment with The Derm Group though the telemedicine links on our site or call us at (973) 571-2121.