Can Laser Vein Removal Treat Rosacea?
Rosacea is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by facial redness, flushing, and the appearance of small blood vessels on the face. While rosacea is usually only a nuisance that causes mild dryness or irritation, you may be bothered by how it affects your appearance.
Dr. Cobbinah recognizes the impact rosacea can have on a patient’s confidence and will work with you to find a solution. There is no cure for rosacea, but several treatments are available to manage its symptoms. One such treatment is laser vein removal.
What is Laser Vein Removal?
Laser vein removal is a non-invasive cosmetic procedure that uses laser technology to remove small, superficial veins on the face and body. The laser energy is directed at the veins, causing them to collapse and eventually disappear. Laser vein removal is a popular treatment for varicose and spider veins, but it can also be used to treat other vascular conditions.
At Essential Med Clinic & Aesthetics, we use the Cutera xeo® and excel® HR lasers. These innovative devices use multiple wavelengths and long-pulsed Nd:YAG technology to clear away vascular lesions and spider veins more quickly and efficiently. Laser vein removal is one of the multiple laser treatments Dr. Freda Cobbinah and her expert staff provide, including skin rejuvenation treatments and laser hair removal.
What Can Laser Vein Removal Treat?
Laser vein therapy is primarily used to treat varicose and spider veins. However, it can also be used to treat other vascular conditions, such as port wine stains and rosacea.
The Cutera xeo® and excel® HR lasers target pigmentation, meaning they have several versatile applications. These cutting-edge technologies can target the pigment in spider veins, unwanted hair, dark spots, acne scars, and more. Since rosacea causes redness and broken blood vessels, it creates visible pigmentation that laser energy can break down.
Rosacea Causes and Symptoms
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with fair skin, a family history of rosacea, and a history of sun exposure are more likely to develop the condition. It is also more common in women and people over the age of 30.
The primary symptoms of rosacea are facial redness and flushing. For some people, rosacea looks like a sunburn or blush, while for others, it involves bumps that may resemble acne.
Common signs of rosacea include:
- Redness and flushing
- Visible blood vessels
- Pimple-like bumps
- Eye irritation
- Skin thickening
- Burning or stinging sensations
How is Rosacea Treated?
Rosacea can be mild and nothing more than an inconvenience, or it can be severe and uncomfortable. While many people have little to no pain or irritation from their rosacea, its effect on their appearance can damage their confidence.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for rosacea. But there are several treatments available to manage its symptoms, and many people are able to avoid the triggers that make their rosacea worse. Common triggers that cause flare-ups include spicy foods, hot drinks, strenuous exercise, extreme temperatures, and alcohol.
Treatments to reduce rosacea symptoms include:
- Topical creams and gels. You can try over-the-counter skincare products or visit your dermatologist for prescription-strength ointments to help reduce redness and inflammation.
- Oral antibiotics. These can help reduce inflammation and treat bacterial infections that can exacerbate rosacea.
- Laser therapy. Lasers like xeo® and excel® HR can break down damaged blood vessels and pigment cells to help reduce the appearance of rosacea.
How Does Laser Vein Removal for Rosacea Work?
Laser treatments for rosacea work by targeting the small blood vessels on the face that contribute to redness and flushing. The Cutera laser device produces an energy beam that heats up targeted blood vessels and veins, breaking down the pigment in them. These damaged pigment cells gradually dissolve and are absorbed by your body. This reduces the appearance of redness and improves the overall texture and tone of the skin.
For some patients, Dr. Cobbinah may recommend an IPL PhotoFacial instead of laser vein removal. Using intense pulsed light, a PhotoFacial similarly breaks down the unwanted pigment in your skin and is an ideal treatment for rosacea, hyperpigmentation, freckles, and more.
What to Expect After Laser Vein Treatment
After laser vein treatment, it is normal to experience some redness and swelling. These side effects typically subside within a few days. You can resume your regular activities within a few hours of the treatment, and full recovery only takes approximately a week. Any discomfort after your laser vein removal should be manageable with over-the-counter pain medication.
Patients should avoid sun exposure and wear sunscreen for several weeks after treatment to protect their skin, which will be more sensitive to sun damage during this time. Dr. Cobbinah may also recommend waiting to use retinoids or other harsh skincare products for a while after your treatment. Applying a soothing moisturizer daily to the treatment area may be beneficial.
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Results of Laser Treatments for Rosacea
You probably won’t see immediate results from laser treatments for rosacea since it takes time for your body to absorb the broken-down blood vessels. Redness and the appearance of blood vessels on your face will fade over the course of several weeks as your body gradually removes the damaged cells. Your final results may take several months.
Most patients enjoy long-lasting benefits from laser vein treatments, whether for rosacea or other pigment issues. Typically, laser vein removal results last for years. Managing your rosacea with topical treatments and avoiding triggers that might cause flare-ups can help maintain your clearer complexion.
Am I a Candidate for Rosacea Laser Treatments?
Laser vein removal can be an excellent treatment option for rosacea, especially if other treatments haven’t worked for you. Ideal candidates are in good overall health with mild to moderate rosacea and are not pregnant or breastfeeding. During your consultation at Essential Med Clinic & Aesthetics, Dr. Cobbinah will evaluate your skin and determine if laser treatments are right for you. She may also recommend IPL PhotoFacials or other treatment options if needed.
Take the Next Step
If you have further questions about laser vein removal, please call us at (210) 568-7555 or complete our online contact form, and one of our trusted staff members will reach out to you. Essential Med Aesthetics is located in San Antonio, Texas.
