Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I have noted more flushing on my face. Should I be concerned about Rosacea? I am in my mid-20s.
Feeling Rosy – Sara K.
Dear Feeling Rosy,
You may be seeing the first stages of Rosacea, which is not uncommon to see in your mid to late 20s. Rosacea affects 16 million people in the US, and only 18% of them are diagnosed and treated. The signs of recurrent flushing and blushing with specific triggers (i.e., hot liquids, alcohol, spicy foods, etc.)may lead to a “fixed” redness typically seen centrally on the face. It is essential to see a Board-Certified Dermatologist or a DermPA at their office to rule out any other causes of the facial redness, as in some cases, it can be more serious. Treatments may include oral and topical RX, education on proper product use, and monitoring and avoiding triggers.
Diva Tip: April is National Rosacea Awareness Month, and Rosacea can occur in all skin types but is typically seen in lighter skin. Onset can generally be in the 4th decade, but I have diagnosed many people in their 20s.
Dear Savvy Derm Diva,
I note many broken blood vessels around my nose, and the appearance is driving me crazy. In addition, it is making the area all red. Is there anything I can do to treat and, even better, prevent them altogether?
Frustrated with redness – Paul W.
Dear Frustrated with Redness,
You refer to telangiectasia, which is often noted around the nose and, unfortunately, hard to prevent. As I mentioned above, if you report an increase in flushing and blushing, it may signify Rosacea. Nonetheless, other causes include trauma, aging, sun damage, and the overuse of steroid creams. Treatments with lasers can make a huge difference, and often if the blood vessels are not extensive, one treatment may do the trick. For Proper Skin Care, make sure you are following me on Instagram or Facebook!
Diva Tip: There are many laser options out on the market, but my two favorites for visualized blood vessels on the face are KTP (Potassium-Titanyl-Phosphate – short wavelength), which is great for lighter skin, and Aerolase (Nd: Yag – longer wavelength) that, is great for all skin types.
Renata Block, MMS, PA-C, is the creator of Savvy Derm Diva, an online resource for proper skincare. Ask Savvy Derm Diva is a monthly column answering your skincare-related concerns! Make sure you follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter! You can make an appointment with her via TeleMedicine or in person at Advanced Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine, LLC, or TEXT to 847-802-9667.
MUAH!????
