Rosacea Treatment London

Rosacea is a common and often misunderstood long-term skin condition, primarily affecting the face. It can cause distress due to its visible symptoms, including persistent redness, flushing and spots. The Primary Care Dermatology Society report that rosacea may affect up to one in 10 people in the UK. Many people with rosacea seek professional guidance to manage their symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life. Dr Tabi Leslie offers professional rosacea treatment London residents can access easily.

Recognising the signs and symptoms of rosacea

Rosacea manifests differently among individuals, but it typically progresses through various stages, with symptoms often coming and going in cycles. The most common initial sign is flushing, where the face temporarily blushes or turns red. Over time, this redness can become persistent, particularly across the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin.

Other key symptoms and signs include:

• Persistent Redness (Erythema): A constant reddish appearance on the central part of the face, resembling a sunburn that never fades.
• Visible Blood Vessels (Telangiectasia): Small, broken blood vessels can become visible just beneath the skin’s surface, particularly on the cheeks and nose.
• Bumps and Pimples (Papules and Pustules): Red, solid bumps (papules) and pus-filled pimples (pustules) can develop, often mistaken for acne.
• Eye Irritation (Ocular Rosacea): The eyes may feel gritty, dry, or irritated, with redness and swelling of the eyelids. This can affect vision in severe cases.
• Skin Thickening (Phymatous Rosacea): In advanced stages, most commonly in men, the skin on the nose can thicken and enlarge, leading to a bulbous appearance (rhinophyma).

Recognising these distinct features is important for proper diagnosis, as rosacea can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions.

Factors that trigger rosacea flare-ups

While the exact cause of rosacea is not fully understood, various triggers can exacerbate symptoms and lead to flare-ups. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is a crucial part of managing the condition. Common triggers include:

• Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a significant trigger for many.
• Hot or cold temperatures: Extreme weather conditions can provoke symptoms.
• Spicy foods and hot drinks: These can cause flushing.
• Alcohol: Particularly red wine.
• Stress and strong emotions: Emotional responses can trigger redness.
• Certain skincare products: Harsh cleansers or products containing irritating ingredients.
• Vigorous exercise: Can increase facial blood flow.

Keeping a diary of potential triggers can help individuals identify what specifically worsens their rosacea, allowing them to make informed lifestyle adjustments.

Rosacea treatment options

While rosacea is a chronic condition with no definitive cure, its symptoms can be managed with the right treatment plan. Dermatologists offer a range of therapies tailored to the specific type and severity of rosacea. Dr Tabi Leslie, a specialist in skin conditions, provides care for anyone seeking to control their rosacea.

Common treatment approaches include:

• Topical Medications: Creams or gels containing ingredients like metronidazole, azelaic acid, or brimonidine can help reduce redness and inflammation.
• Oral Medications: For more severe or resistant cases, oral antibiotics (often in low doses to reduce inflammation rather than infection) or isotretinoin can help.
• Laser and Light Therapies: Pulsed Dye Laser (PDL) or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments are highly effective for reducing persistent redness and visible blood vessels. These treatments work by targeting the tiny blood vessels in the skin.
• Skincare Advice: A crucial component of management involves adopting a gentle skincare routine, using mild cleansers and moisturisers and using broad-spectrum sunscreen.
• Trigger Avoidance: Identifying and minimising exposure to personal triggers is fundamental to preventing flare-ups.

Dr Tabi Leslie will develop a comprehensive management plan that may combine several of these approaches, focusing on both immediate symptom control and long-term maintenance.

Accessing expert rosacea treatment London

Living with rosacea can be challenging, but with appropriate treatment, its impact can be reduced. Dr Tabi Leslie offers consultations and rosacea treatments for patients across London. Her approach focuses on accurate diagnosis, personalised care and effective strategies to manage this chronic skin condition. Visit our contact page to find the booking details for each of her clinics.