Rosacea Treatments Minneapolis, MN | Clarus Dermatology

Rosacea Treatments for Clearer Skin

Get expert dermatological care to manage redness, flare-ups, and irritation.

Regain Confidence with Professional Rosacea Treatment

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that causes facial redness, visible blood vessels, and flare-ups, often across the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead. While there is no cure, professional dermatological care can substantially reduce symptoms and improve skin health over time.

At Clarus Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists develop personalized treatment plans tailored to your skin type, symptom severity, and triggers. Our goal is to help you manage flare-ups, calm redness, and prevent the condition from worsening.

Understanding: Causes & Triggers

Rosacea is a long-term skin disorder that primarily affects the central face and varies from person to person. Although the exact cause is unknown, various environmental, dietary, and internal triggers can contribute to flare-ups and worsen symptoms.

Common Rosacea Triggers

Rosacea is known to flare in response to certain triggers. While those specific triggers can vary based on the person, common ones include:

  • Sun exposure
  • Spicy foods & alcohol
  • Stress & emotional responses
  • Hot weather or extreme cold
  • Certain skincare products
  • Caffeine & hot beverages

Symptoms of Rosacea

Symptoms can vary but typically affect the face, often resembling acne or sunburn. They may include:

  • Persistent facial redness, especially on the cheeks and nose
  • Visible blood vessels (telangiectasia) on the face
  • Bumps & pimples that may resemble acne
  • Burning or stinging sensation in affected areas
  • Eye irritation (ocular rosacea), including dryness, itching, or burning
Rosacea Treatments

Overview

Rosacea is a common skin disorder that causes chronic inflammation and redness, usually around the forehead, chin, cheeks and nose.

Rosacea is often mistaken for acne or skin allergies, and most commonly occurs in adults over age 30.

Rosacea Cause

Causes

The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but a variety of factors are known to cause flares. These triggers include sun exposure, extreme weather, exercise, emotional upsets, spicy food, and alcohol.

Contrary to popular belief, alcohol does not cause rosacea - although it can cause rosacea symptoms to worsen.

Rosacea treatment

Risk Factors

Rosacea most commonly affects adults between age 30 and 60, and tends to run in families. It is most common in women (particularly during menopause), but severe cases of rosacea occur most in men.

Although rosacea can develop in people of any skin color, it tends to occur most frequently in people with fair skin.

Rosacea treatment

Symptoms

Rosacea can develop in people of any skin color, but occurs more more frequently in people with fair skin.

Many people with rosacea also experience eye problems, including redness, inflammation, itching, burning, or dryness. Most cases of rosacea are cyclic - symptoms may flare up or lessen for weeks at a time.

Rosacea Care

Treatment

A doctor may treat rosacea-related skin problems with topical or oral antibiotics. Rosacea-related eye problems can be treated with oral antibiotics, steroid eye drops, and good eyelid hygiene.

Although there is no cure, rosacea can be treated and controlled to improve the appearance of the skin.

Personalized Rosacea Treatment Options

Effective rosacea treatment focuses on controlling symptoms, minimizing flare-ups, and calming inflammation. Our dermatology team will recommend a combination of therapies based on your specific type of rosacea and how it presents on your skin.

Topical Medications

Topical treatments are often the first step in managing mild to moderate rosacea. These medications work directly on the skin to reduce redness, inflammation, and bacterial activity.

  • Brimonidine (Mirvaso): Constricts blood vessels to reduce visible redness.
  • Metronidazole & Azelaic acid: Reduce inflammation and bacterial activity.
  • Ivermectin (Soolantra): Targets Demodex mites and reduces inflammation

Oral Medications

For moderate to severe cases or those involving pustules, oral medications may be prescribed to treat inflammation from within.

  • Antibiotics (Doxycycline, Minocycline): Help reduce inflammation and pustular flare-ups.
  • Low-dose Isotretinoin (Accutane): Used off-label in severe, treatment-resistant rosacea cases.

Laser & Light Therapy

These in-office procedures are especially effective for reducing redness and visible blood vessels that topical or oral treatments may not fully address. They typically require a series of sessions for best results and are tailored to your skin’s needs.

  • Intense Pulse Light (IPL): Reduces diffuse redness and broken blood vessels.
  • Vascular Laser Therapy: Shrinks visible blood vessels and improves overall skin tone.

Skincare & Lifestyle Modifications

In addition to clinical treatments, adopting a gentle skincare routine and identifying lifestyle triggers is a must for long-term control. This can include:

  • Use gentle, fragrance-free skincare products to avoid irritation.
  • Apply daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to protect sensitive skin.
  • Adjust your diet to avoid known triggers, such as alcohol and spicy foods.

When to See a Dermatologist

Rosacea isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It can progress and become more difficult to manage without treatment. If you’re noticing changes in your skin or experiencing discomfort, it may be time to seek help. A dermatologist can offer relief and guidance tailored to your needs if you notice:

  • Persistent redness that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter remedies.
  • Frequent flare-ups that interfere with your daily routine
  • Prominent blood vessels that affect your confidence
  • Eye irritation, including burning, dryness, or blurred vision

Rosacea Prevention & Long-Term Care

Managing rosacea is a long-term commitment, but with the right strategies, you can minimize flare-ups and keep your skin looking and feeling its best.

  • Daily sun protection: Use a mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
  • Avoid harsh skincare: Stick to mild cleansers and non-comedogenic moisturizers.
  • Know your triggers: Keep a symptom diary to track and avoid flare-up causes.
  • Reduce stress: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or other stress-relieving techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, rosacea is a chronic condition. However, with the proper strategies, you can manage its symptoms. If you’re dealing with rosacea and are unsure how to manage it, talk to your dermatologist.

While some natural remedies may provide mild relief, clinical treatments are often necessary for long-term control and visible improvement. Strategies like stress control and avoiding triggers can help, too.

Vascular laser therapy and IPL are both effective for reducing redness and visible blood vessels. The best choice depends on your individual skin type and symptoms. Your dermatologist can guide you toward the most effective option.

Without treatment, rosacea can worsen over time. With early diagnosis and consistent care, you can manage the condition and prevent its progression.

Yes, many people find that certain foods and drinks, such as spicy foods, hot beverages, and alcohol, can trigger flare-ups. Avoiding those triggers can help prevent flare-ups.

Take Control of Rosacea with Expert Dermatology Care

If you’re living with persistent redness or recurring flare-ups, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to manage it on your own. Clarus Dermatology is here to help you understand your skin and find relief through evidence-based, personalized care. Let us help you take the next step toward clearer, calmer skin.

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