Best laser treatment for rosacea? (Photo)

I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. For rosacea, I like a combination approach, using lasers (ProYellow, Pulsed Dye/Vbeam, Excel V, BBL, Pico), peels and botox to the cheeks. This makes dramatic changes in color and symptoms. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Vbeam laser is an excellent modality for patients who have rosacea, blushing of the skin, facial and body telangiectasia, spider veins, redness, post surgical redness, and skin flushing. It is a safe procedure that can be used at varying depths to help treat micro blood vessels in the skin. We also use it in our office for facial skin inflammation, keloids, and hypertrophic scarring. It is an important part of scar therapy. Vbeam can be combined with chemical peels and other lasers, but experience with the treatment is essential. The Vbeam laser does not affect deeper tissue. Schedule a consultation with an expert in Vbeam and you will find it to be an excellent modality for many skin types.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

The Pulsed Dye Laser, or PDL, uses a concentrated beam of light that targets blood vessels in the skin. It is one of the best treatment options for vascular problems such as hemangiomas, broken blood vessels, port-wine stains, scars, and your underlying redness. The light is converted into heat, destroying the blood vessel while leaving the surrounding skin undamaged. The laser uses yellow light, which is very safe. PDL treatments usually take only a few minutes and are performed during an outpatient clinic visit. No anesthesia is required, as the machine produces a cold spray just before the laser pulse, diminishing the sensation of pain. Remember to always consult with a board-certified cosmetic physician.

Thanks for your question and photo. The first step in rosacea management is identifying your triggers that make you flush and blush - so that is good that you know what your triggers are. It is helpful to avoid them if possible, and a good physical sunscreen is essential. We recommend a sunscreen that contains zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. It is important to apply sunscreen every day, whether you think you are going outside or not, as the UVA rays can shine through glass such as household windows or untinted car windows. As far as laser treatment, some options include IPL which can gradually reduce the redness with a few treatments, an actual vascular laser such as a long pulsed Nd:yag for specific broken capillaries, or a pulsed dye laser or KTP for overall redness. Please see your dermatologist for their recommendations, and good luck!