Rosacea is a relatively common chronic skin condition characterized by persistent facial redness, particularly in the central regions. It usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50. Over time, additional symptoms may develop, such as visible small blood vessels (telangiectasias), acne-like breakouts, and thickening of the skin.
The exact cause of rosacea is still unclear, but various triggering factors are involved, including temperature (cold, heat, sudden changes in temperature), alcohol, stress, spicy foods, and sunlight.
In addition to lifestyle adjustments and the application of creams/gels, laser therapy has proven effective for treating rosacea.
Laser therapy leads to a reduction in redness and visible blood vessels. At Margarethenklinik, we use a laser equipment called Derma V. The Derma V laser utilizes a special light source with a specific wavelength (532nm and 1064nm) directed at the affected skin area. This wavelength is set to be absorbed by specific pigments in the blood vessels of the skin.
When treating rosacea, the laser typically targets the enlarged blood vessels responsible for the redness and visible veins on the face. Once the laser light is absorbed by the targets in the skin, heat is generated, which causes the blood vessels to coagulate, thereby reducing their size. This leads to a reduction in redness and visible veins.
The Derma V laser precisely targets the problematic areas of the skin without damaging the surrounding skin.
The treatment is particularly effective for patients who have diffuse redness and smaller blood vessels on the face. In later stages of rosacea, other therapeutic steps may be necessary, such as local and oral antibiotics and specific cosmetics for skincare.
Treatment with the Derma V laser usually requires 3 to 5 sessions performed at intervals of approximately every 4 weeks. The exact treatment plan depends on the severity of the rosacea and the individual needs of the patient, but typically, patients begin to notice improvement after the second or third laser treatment. Each treatment session lasts a total of 30 to 45 minutes.
Preparation: Before treatment, the skin is thoroughly cleansed. As the pain level of this treatment is generally low, normally no anesthetic needs to be used.
Laser Application: The doctor applies the Derma V laser to the affected areas of the skin. During the treatment, you may feel a sensation of heat and possibly slight discomfort.
If necessary, the treated areas are briefly cooled with cold packs. Afterward, the area is moisturized with soothing cream and sunscreen, and if necessary, with cortisone cream.
After treatment, there may be redness and mild swelling, which usually subside within a day or a few days. The treatment does not affect daily activities. It is important to avoid sun exposure in the days following treatment and to protect the skin from UV rays daily. We recommend avoiding sun exposure for the next two weeks after the treatment.
Normally after the first session, an light improvement in redness is already noticeable. On average, a significant reduction in symptoms can be achieved with 3 sessions. Since rosacea is a chronic skin condition, it is recommended to repeat the treatment every 6 to 12 months.
It is important to consult with a qualified dermatologist to determine if this type of laser therapy is suitable for you and to determine the appropriate treatment duration and intensity.