The preferred treatment for rosacea is Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL uses a non-laser light source and can safely and effectively reduce the following signs of rosacea in some patients:

• Dilated blood vessels
• Persistent redness
• Flushing
• Acne-like breakouts

Most patients notice some reduction in dilated blood vessels and redness after a few treatments, but ongoing maintenance is usually required.

Side effects from IPL are temporary and include redness, swelling, bruising, and skin lightening.

Thinking about laser or light therapy?

While some patients experience dramatic results (such as the return of a normal flushing response) and the results can be long-lasting, neither laser nor light therapy cures rosacea. You need to continue a good skincare regimen, and avoid your personal rosacea triggers. To maintain results, additional laser or light treatment may be needed at a later time

Can I receive IPL treatments?

If you have any of the following medical conditions, you may not be a good candidate for IPL

• Clotting disorder
• Tendency to develop keloids
• Insulin-dependent diabetes

Anyone with a suntan should not receive laser or light treatments until the tan has faded. If you have any of the medical conditions listed above, be sure to tell your skincare specialist because these conditions may increase your risk of developing an infection or problems with wound healing. Additionally, laser and light treatments are not recommended during pregnancy.

Will I see a visible change? Most patients do see improvement; however, with any procedure there is always the possibility that you will only see a minor change. We have found that people with lighter skin who limit their sun exposure after the procedure tend to have better results.

Several factors — including your skin type, condition of your skin, your lifestyle, and the amount of sun exposure you get following the procedure — affect the short- and long-term results. For example, not protecting your skin from the sun after treatment can provoke a strong reaction, which can make rosacea worse.

IPL is a preferred treatment option for the redness, flushing, and dilated blood vessels of rosacea. Benefits include few short-term side effects, no downtime with many products, and long-lasting results, especially in combination with a good homecare regimen like and calming aesthetic treatments.

We recommend IPL in combination with sensitive skin facials or peels and Obagi Rosaclear home regimen for optimal results.