Rosacea is redness, sensitivity and break-outs that affects approximately 1 in 10 people. In fact, it’s one of the most common issues I treat here at Laser Skin Solutions, Motcombe. With rosacea, we see a long-term inflammatory process that causes an over-growth of capillary blood vessels in the upper layers of the skin. These tiny blood vessels are very sensitive and enlarge in response to sunlight, stress, exercise, alcohol, spicy food, caffeine and hot or cold weather. In addition it can be caused by a change in hormones – pregnancy, menopause etc.
These factors cause flushing and a sensation of burning or stinging. Over time, the chronic inflammation leads to larger vessels developing (‘telangiectasia’), often seen around the nose, cheeks and chin.
IPL Laser is an effective, pain-free and non-invasive way of diminishing these vascular blemishes. Filtered, wide spectrum light penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the blood vessel, heating it to a point the vessel is destroyed. It will coagulate and then the damaged vessel tissues are reabsorbed by the body.
Prior to treatment
Patients must avoid sun exposure four weeks before treatment. Please also do not use fake tan in the week leading up to your treatment. Avoid retinoids and vitamin C as these both increase skin sensitivity. A patch test will be undertaken where we will ensure we take a medical history and discuss any medication being taken at the time of treating.
During treatment
I will apply a thin layer of IPL gel and hold the hand-piece to your skin. At this point you will feel warmth and potentially a slight pinching sensation. Please note, this shouldn’t be painful.
After treatment
You may experience a further reddening of the skin and a feeling of mild sunburn, but only very temporarily – This will quickly subside. Make sure you avoid sun exposure for a minimum of 2-4 weeks. Ensure you wear an SPF, ideally a rating of 50. Also avoid saunas or getting overly sweaty, 48 hours after treatment.
For best results, 4 sessions, 3 weeks apart are recommended. Results can take around a month to 6 weeks to see (often much sooner), but it will absolutely be worth the wait. Depending on the root cause of rosacea, results can be permanent or require a maintenance plan.
I can also recommend a skincare routine to complement IPL treatment, all of which is accessible through myself.
For more information or to book a patch test, please message me now. This is a condition you don’t have to suffer for the long-term.