What are the treatment options for rosacea?

Rosacea does not improve or resolve on its own, and untreated rosacea can worsen over time. Unlike acne, self-treating with over-the-counter products may not help and may even irritate skin more, causing more redness and bumps. Your family doctor or dermatologist can prescribe various forms of treatment and recommend which skin care products and cosmetics are appropriate.

Sticking with the treatment recommended by your doctor will improve symptoms within a few weeks.

Metronidazole

This topical agent, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, is considered a gold standard treatment for rosacea. It can be used long term and is available in a gel, cream and lotion formulation.

Antibiotics (topical, oral)

Rosacea is often treated with antibiotics, either in a topical formulation that is applied directly to affected skin or in a pill form you swallow. They work mainly by providing an anti-inflammatory effect. Oral antibiotics include tetracycline, minocycline, erythromycin, clindamycin, and others.

Steroid creams

Rosacea may be treated with mild topical steroids that are either over-the-counter or prescription-strength. These can be used short-term to help to reduce skin redness and inflammation. They can make rosacea worse if used for longer periods.

Isotretinoin 

This oral agent may be prescribed if rosacea is severe or if symptoms do not respond to antibiotics.

Tretinoin cream 

This topical agent may be prescribed for mild rosacea.

Sodium sulfacetamide and sulphur

Sodium sulfacetamide and sulphur are typically used in combination to treat redness and inflammation.

Laser therapy and other cosmetic surgery

Laser therapy treatment involves using a pulsed dye laser or intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat visible red blood vessels. Laser resurfacing, dermabrasion or cosmetic surgery may be used to reduce the tissue overgrowth associated with rhinophyma.

Camouflage make-up

In addition to treating their rosacea symptoms, many patients feel better about their condition if they are able to cover the visible redness and bumps. Corrective camouflage is available to help conceal rosacea symptoms. This is a special kind of make-up with a green tint.