Rosacea Treatment in Pensacola, FL

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the central face — particularly the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. It often appears as persistent redness, but it can also cause swelling, skin sensitivity, and thickening of the skin in more advanced cases. While the exact cause is still unknown, rosacea tends to follow a pattern of flare-ups and remissions, with triggers that vary from person to person.

Although rosacea is more common in adults over 30 with fair skin, it can affect people of all skin tones and ages. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment can greatly reduce symptoms and prevent progression over time. At Pensacola Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists offer personalized rosacea treatment plans designed to calm symptoms, minimize flare-ups, and help you feel more confident in your skin.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Rosacea can look different from person to person, but the most common signs and symptoms include:

• Facial redness — Persistent redness or flushing, especially in the center of the face.
• Visible blood vessels — Small, broken blood vessels (telangiectasia) may appear under the skin’s surface.
• Bumps and pimples — Acne-like breakouts can occur, but without blackheads.
• Eye irritation — Known as ocular rosacea, this includes redness, dryness, or gritty feeling in the eyes.
• Skin sensitivity — Burning, stinging, or itching sensations may be present, especially with certain skincare products.
• Skin thickening — In more advanced stages, especially in men, rosacea may cause the skin around the nose to thicken (rhinophyma).

Causes & Triggers

While the precise cause of rosacea remains unclear, it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. Flare-ups are often triggered by external or internal stimuli that lead to inflammation or increased blood flow to the skin.

Common rosacea triggers include:

• Sun exposure — UV radiation is one of the most reported flare-up triggers.
• Hot weather or wind — Sudden changes in temperature or climate can worsen symptoms.
• Spicy foods — Capsaicin and other compounds can increase facial flushing.
• Alcohol — Particularly red wine, which dilates blood vessels.
• Stress or anxiety — Emotional stress can contribute to frequent flare-ups.
• Exercise — Intense physical activity, especially in heat, may aggravate redness.
• Skincare products — Harsh cleansers, exfoliants, or alcohol-based products can irritate sensitive skin.
• Certain medications — Drugs that dilate blood vessels (like some blood pressure medications) can trigger or worsen rosacea.

Understanding your personal triggers is a key part of managing rosacea long term. At Pensacola Dermatology, we work with you to identify and reduce the factors that make your symptoms worse.

Pensacola Rosacea Treatment

Living in Florida’s warm and sunny climate can be especially challenging for those with rosacea, as heat and sun exposure are two of the most common triggers. At Pensacola Dermatology, we take local environmental factors into account when developing your treatment plan.

Our dermatologists begin by evaluating your symptoms, medical history, and skincare habits. Whether you’re experiencing mild redness or more severe flare-ups, we provide a tailored approach that addresses your skin’s needs, supports barrier function, and minimizes inflammation. With the right care, it’s possible to manage rosacea effectively and maintain healthier, clearer skin.

Treatment Options for Rosacea

There is no cure for rosacea, but with the right treatment plan, symptoms can be significantly reduced and flare-ups better controlled. Treatment is often a combination of medical therapies and lifestyle changes.

Common rosacea treatments include:

• Topical medications — Prescription creams and gels (such as metronidazole, azelaic acid, or ivermectin) help reduce redness and inflammation.
• Oral antibiotics — For moderate to severe cases, low-dose antibiotics like doxycycline may be used to control inflammation and clear skin.
• Laser or light therapy — IPL (intense pulsed light) or vascular lasers can target visible blood vessels and reduce facial redness.
• Skincare adjustments — Using gentle, fragrance-free cleansers and moisturizers helps calm irritated skin and prevent further sensitivity.
• Sun protection — Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF is crucial for preventing flare-ups and protecting sensitive skin.
• Trigger management — Identifying personal flare-up triggers (with the help of a skin journal or diary) can improve long-term outcomes.

In some cases, ocular rosacea may require specific eye drops or oral antibiotics. If left untreated, rosacea symptoms often worsen over time, so early intervention and maintenance care are key.

Take Control of Rosacea with Expert Care in Pensacola

Rosacea doesn’t have to define your skin. At Pensacola Dermatology, our experienced providers offer compassionate, evidence-based care to help you manage symptoms and feel more comfortable in your skin. Request your appointment today and take the first step toward clearer, calmer skin — right here in Pensacola, FL.