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Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition affecting mostly fair skin people between the ages of 30 and 60. It is characterized by flare-ups and remissions. Rosacea typically begins as a redness or flushing on the cheeks, chin, nose or forehead that comes and goes. It is often misdiagnosed as adult acne hence the term Acne Rosacea. The exact cause of Rosacea is unknown, although studies have shown that many factors can aggrevate it. In its mildest form it may just appear to be a redness or flush. Over time the redness becomes more pronounced and persistent, telangiectasia (fine blood vessels) may appear. Papules and pustules may develop, and occasionally the eyes may be affected causing them to look blood shot. In other cases the nose may become red and swollen from excess tissue. These symptoms can be reduced and progression may be arrested through medical treatment and lifestyle modifications.

Who is a Candidate for treatment?

Anyone with Rosacea and who has redness flushing and fine blood vessels. It is important to treat Rosacea as it is a progressive condition if left untreated.

How is it treated?

Initial primary treatment is with our PhotoFacial PR protocol for Rosacea. Dr Copeland will customise your treatment according to the stage of your condition. In addition to the light treatment we may combine this with specific medical treatment including topical and or oral prescriptions. There is no cure for Rosacea, however, these treatments will help control the symptoms. It is important to complete the full course of treatment initially, and follow this with a customized maintenance home regimen and PhotoFacial PR touch ups as required.

Intended Results?

Reduction and control of redness and minimisation of flare-ups. PhotoFacial PR treatments usually have an excellent result.

Procedure Description

A cold gel is applied to the area being treated while the hand piece is gently applied to your skin. Each pulse of light produces a slight sting. A topical anesthetic cream may be used to reduce discomfort, however this usually not necessary as the light head has an in-built cooling system for your comfort. A treatment of the full face may take 20-30 minutes.

Recuperation and Healing

  • Most patients have no side effects. Unlike laser resurfacing, the PhotoFacial PR acts on the deeper layer of your skin under the epidermis. There is usually a bit of redness which may last for a few hours. Slight darkening and flaking off of any pigmented spots occurs after about 2 or 3 weeks. Redness reduces and fine veins disappear.
  • The skin feels soft and even. Studies show fine wrinkles and blemishes improve by 50-75%. By dividing the treatment into several sessions, gradual improvement is achieved with low risk and no down time. Typically, 5-6 treatments are performed approximately 3 to 4 weeks apart. A full treatment will therefore often take 4 - 6 months to complete.
  • You can reapply makeup if you wish and return to work, activities, etc. immediately after treatment. It is important to avoid sun exposure after PhotoFacial therapy. You must wear a hat and sunscreen after this treatment.

Who should not have a PhotoFacial PR?

Certain medical conditions, prescriptions and non-prescription medications may preclude you from being able to have a PhotoFacial. It is extremely important for our physician to take your medical and prescription history to determine your eligibility for this procedure.

Other Options

Rosacea treatment usually consists of combination treatments as determined by your physician and yourself. These will include specific peels for rosacea, prescription topical or oral medication and highly advanced home care products specifically chosen for your condition and stage. You will be given specific instructions for your treatment by Dr. Copeland or his Aesthetic assistants.

Insurance Giudelines

  • Your consultation with the physician for Rosacea is covered by OHIP, however the PhotoFacial PR treatments and some of the non-prescription formulations are not. You are responsible for these payments at time of service.
  • Occasionally some extended health plans cover our PhotoFacial PR protocols as Rosacea is a medical condition.
Rosacea is a chronic disorder of flare-ups and remissions that becomes increasingly severe without long-term therapy. In order to avoid this you can personally take control of your condition by seeking medical attention and complying with long-term medical treatment and avoiding those lifestyle factors that aggravate your skin.
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