Plastic Surgery Cosmetic Surgeon

Rosacea is a medical condition with no true "cure" but symptoms can be managed successfully. Rosacea involves a constant state of inflammation, primarily in the areas of the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead, often combined with broken capillaries and breakouts. The cause of Rosacea is unknown. Vascular dysfunction may be linked to increased levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines. VEGF stimulates the growth and development of new blood vessels. It also increases the permeability of the capillaries, resulting in plasma (component of blood) being leaked into the surrounding tissues, inducing an inflammatory response and causing redness and irritation. PGE2 is a group of hormone-like substances that participate in vasodilatation - the dilation of the capillary walls. Pro-inflammatory cytokines are a part of the flushing and chronic inflammatory response and known to be linked to Rosacea. Links to the parasitic dermodex mite have also been found. Human sebaceous follicles are inhabited by the dermodex mite. Studies have found increased levels of the mite in Rosacea patients. The proliferation of the mite causes increased irritation.

Although the cause of rosacea is still unclear, there are many known common triggers. Avoiding these triggers is an important part of controlling your rosacea. To name a few, rosacea sufferers should keep alcohol consumption to a minimum, avoid spicy and acidic foods as well as hot beverages, avoid hot showers, steam rooms and hot tubs. People with rosacea should treat their skin gently, avoid aggressive exfoliation and alchohol-based skin products. Above all, rosacea patients should consult their aesthetician as to the best sun protection product for them and use it diligently. In addition to triggering rosacea flare-ups, sun exposure may potentially cause blood vessel damage that is associated with the disorder. Exposure to ultraviolet light may lead to an increase in receptors for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the skin.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

PRODUCTS

The Image Ormedic line restores the skin's health by integrating highly potent anti-oxidants and organic ingredients without the use of chemicals, acids or parabens. Naturally derived apricot oil, shea butter and grape seed oil soften and hydrate the skin while anti-inflammatory ingredients such as japanese green tea, chamomile extract, and cucumber extract help to calm. Chlorophyllin Copper Complex, an organically bound copper similar to copper peptide, delivers copper to the skin, accelerating wound healing and cell regeneration while stimulating elastin and collagen synthesis. Low level retinoids may be used to help increase cell turnover, bringing healthy cells to the surface more quickly.

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SERVICES

Regular in-office facial treatments are an important part of controlling rosacea. The most important aspect of treatment is the reduction of inflammation and redness. Products containing high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids provide powerful anti-inflammatory characteristics. Supporting botanicals such as chamomile, Japanese green tea extract, and cucumber extract also help to soothe and calm. Green and brown algae extracts help to interrupt the inflammatory process by reducing VEGF and PGE2 expression.

Desquamation and cell turnover are improved using gentle exfoliating treatments without causing irritation. Topical application of retinol and other vitamin A derivatives help speed the production and proliferation of new healthy cells.

IPL, or photorejuvenation, is frequently used to reduce diffuse redness and facial telangiectasias, broken or distended facial capillaries, at the same time improving skin texture and pore size. IPL also aids in the reduction of papules and pustules (or break outs) often associated with rosacea. More recent studies have shown that photorejuvenation, or Intense Pulsed Light, also helps to reduce heightened levels of VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor, in rosacea patients, thus hindering new vascular growth on the face.

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