Facial Redness: What You Need to Know About Laser for Redness

Facial redness can be distressing and impact our self-confidence. In this article, we’ll explore how laser treatment for rosacea can effectively address redness associated with Rosacea. Let’s dive in!

What Is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that primarily affects the face. It’s characterised by several symptoms:

• Facial Flushing: Rosacea often leads to persistent redness, especially on the cheeks, nose, and forehead.
• Visible Blood Vessels: Dilated blood vessels (Telangiectasia) become noticeable, contributing to the redness.
• Thickened Skin: Over time, the skin may thicken, particularly in the nose area (Phymatous Rosacea).
• Papules and Pustules: Rosacea can cause acne-like bumps (papules and pustules).
  
  

Can Laser Treatments Improve Rosacea?

While Rosacea isn’t curable, laser treatment for rosacea can significantly improve background redness. Usually, a course of about 3-5 treatments sessions is needed and reduction in redness if noted over time. Different types of lasers target specific aspects of rosacea:

• Reducing Redness: Lasers (for rosacea) collapse dilated blood vessels, reducing facial redness.
• Treating Phymatous Rosacea: For thickened skin (Phymatous Rosacea), laser resurfacing can restore a more natural shape by removing excess tissue. However, results are temporary, and repeat treatments may be necessary.
  
  

What are the Laser Treatment Options for Rosacea?

Laser treatments have revolutionised the management of rosacea. These focused light beams offer targeted solutions for redness. They work by;

• Selective Absorption: Laser energy is absorbed by specific targets (chromophores) in the skin. In this case our chromophore is haemoglobin in the blood vessels.
• Heat Generation: As the laser energy is absorbed, it generates heat. This heat selectively damages the targeted structures while sparing surrounding tissues.
• Collagen Stimulation: Some types of laser treatments, including vascular laser treatments also stimulate collagen production, promoting skin rejuvenation.
  
  

How Do Lasers Specifically Target Rosacea and What Are the Best Laser Treatments for Rosacea?

Different Lasers Address Different Aspects of Rosacea:

• Pulsed-Dye Lasers (PDL): These lasers specifically target blood vessels. By emitting a specific wavelength of light (usually 585–595 nm), PDL selectively heats and collapses dilated vessels. Redness diminishes as blood flow decreases. Chroma Dermatology houses best and most researched PDL globally – the V-beam laser by Candela. Tried and tested over decades. It is the gold standard for treating background redness on the skin. The V-beam by Candela also has a Dynamic Cooling Device which sprays a cooling burst of cryogen just before the laser pulse. This minimises discomfort and protects the skin.
• Erbium: YAG Lasers: These lasers promote collagen production and improve skin texture. They are a gentle option for background redness and can also specifically target larger blood vessels on the skin. Chroma Dermatology have invested in a globally trusted brand, Cutera’s Excel V laser.
• CO2 Lasers: Used for thickened skin (Phymatous Rosacea), CO2 lasers vaporise excess tissue and remodel the skin surface. Chroma Dermatology have the latest CO2 technology (Deka), developed in Italy and trusted by the best and most experienced laser clinics. 
  
  

What to Expect During Laser Treatment

Laser treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated. Before the procedure, our team will assess your skin, ensure your skin is adequately prepared and ready for the laser treatment. To ensure we reduce risks and optimise results, laser treatment will not be performed at the time of your initial consultation.

During the Procedure:

• Local Anaesthesia: A numbing cream or local anaesthesia may be applied depending on the type of laser being used and your skin type.
• Laser Application: The laser itself may feel like heat or a light flick of a rubber band against the skin. Again, this depends on the laser being used. Treatment of the whole face takes about 30 minutes. 
• Downtime: 
  
  

What to Expect After Laser Treatment

After Your Laser Session:

Downtime after laser for rosacea depends on the laser being used, your skin type and the severity of your rosacea among other things. Once you have had an assessment with our team, your personal journey and expected downtime will be discussed with you.

• Redness, swelling and mild discomfort: Expect some redness and mild swelling immediately after treatment. This usually subsides within a few hours to a few days.
• Sun Protection: Protect your skin from sun exposure. Sunscreen and avoiding direct sunlight are essential.
• Depending on the laser being used and the severity of the rosacea, a bruised like look may occur on the skin. These skin changes last a few days and up to one week. 

Those with darker skin tones have a higher risk of hyperpigmentation with all vascular laser treatments so this treatment is generally avoided in those with darker skin.

What Results Can I Expect from Laser Treatment for Rosacea?

Results vary from patient to patient, but generally a 50–75% reduction in redness after three sessions of laser treatment. Most people require maintenance treatments approximately every second-third year thereafter. If there is a desire to continue to promote natural collagen production in the skin, more frequent maintenance and topical therapies will be discussed with you.

Other Rosacea Treatments

Besides laser therapy, lifestyle changes, topical treatments and oral treatments play crucial roles in managing rosacea. The exact management plan varies from patient to patient.

Why Choose Chroma Dermatology for Rosacea Treatment?

Choosing the right dermatology clinic in Melbourne is crucial for successful rosacea management. Here’s why our clinic stands out:

• Knowledge and Experience: We have nearly 20 years of experience in dermatology. This allows us to accurate diagnose and assess the severity of your redness and provide a comprehensive plan for rosacea treatment. 
• Cutting-Edge Technology: We have invested in the best laser treatments for rosacea like the Cutera Excel V and Candela V-beam to provide effective and safe treatments.
• Personalised Approach: We tailor treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs. We are realistic about expectations and ensuring optimal results.
• Compassionate Care: We prioritise patient comfort and well-being throughout the treatment process.

Rosacea can significantly impact self-esteem and daily life. As long as a holistic approach is taken, laser treatments offer hope for those dealing with facial redness. It is important to consult with a dermatologist in Melbourne to create a personalised treatment plan.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. We are here to support you every step of the way. Feel free to reach out for further information or to schedule a consultation.