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GreatSkin® skin care Clinics |
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Rosacea is sometimes known as “acne rosacea,” because of the prevalence of multiple “acne-like” eruptions in the central “t-zone” area of the face and the malar (cheek) area of the face. The eruptions are different than standard acne. Instead of being pustular filled follicles that can be expressed and drained, they are hard, red, non pustular, inflammatory lumps which break down and get irritated, sometimes taking months to go away. These inflammatory lumps usually take place on the background of red, flushed, sensitive skin. Traditionally dermatologists would prescribe various topically applied antibiotics such as metronidazone gel (Metro-gel), metronidazole cream, and various oral antibiotics such as tetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin with only minimal positive effect. The poor results of treatment have to do the complexity of the pathogenesis of the disease. Rosacea is one of the more elusive skin conditions we treat. Central to the pathogenesis of Rosacea is the abnormal activity of the capillaries in the skin. The normal biologic control factors that work to maintain most capillaries’ vascular tone is lost. The capillaries tend to vasodilate or enlarge and produce the red flushing appearance so characteristic to the illness. The main stimulus to this vasodilatation reaction seems to be the sun, alcohol, emotional factors and certain foods. We have determined that in some cases there is an infectious bacteria present, hence the use of the antibiotic regimen. We even believe in some cases that a mite (yes, an arthropod!) is present causing the problem. The inflammatory eruptions are the result of the abnormal capillary response to various stimulating agents. Recently, we have found that the combination of Intense Pulse Light therapy (Fotofacial-RF) in combination with a good skin care program and topical antibiotics is the MOST effective form of therapy. This program can control and indeed improve most cases of Rosacea because it addresses the pathogenesis, the capillary problem. Intense pulsed light in combination with radiofrequency energy targets the abnormally dilated blood vessels, destroying the culprits of the disease. “The most effective treatment was the application of 570 nm and 590 nm wavelength at a fluence of 25-55 J/cm2. Application of IPL in inflammatory rosacea is equally as safe and effective in residual or initial lesions. Moreover, in combination with antibiotics, it promotes reduction of all symptoms, is less time-consuming and is more successful for patients. The pathogenetic influence of IPL in rosacea seems not only to be limited to selective photothermolysis of dilated blood vessels, but may also have immunomodulatory effects on inflammatory processes and possibly on collagen remodeling. The combination of IPL and antibiotics from the outset of rosacea therapy is considered to be highly effective.” (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology Volume 1 Issue 2 Page 105 – July 2002 doi:10.1046/j.1473–2165.2002.00040_13.x) So, now for the first time, we really have an effective treatment for Rosacea. The treatment is a combination of Intense pulsed light therapy (the FotoFacial-RF) delivered simultaneously with topical antibiotic therapy. A series of six treatments one month apart is effective in nearly eradicating the problem! Greatskin Clinics located in Amarillo and Albuquerque offer this treatment for Rosacea. We recommend a very mild skin care program in combination with topical antibiotic therapy during the course of treatment. » return to top
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