Rosacea Treatment London - Skin Specialists

What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that makes your face turn red and may cause swelling and skin sores that look like acne. It typically occurs in people with fair skin between the ages of 30 and 50 and is more common in women than men. However, the symptoms are often worse in men. The condition does affect people with darker skin, but the symptoms can be harder to spot.

Rosacea is caused by the swelling of the blood vessels that are situated right beneath the skin. This results in the characteristic redness of the face and other associated symptoms. Rosacea is a harmless condition and does not usually cause any pain or discomfort, but in the most severe cases, people with rosacea may experience burning, stinging or itching skin.

It is not known what causes rosacea, but there are certain triggers which can cause the condition to flare up. These triggers vary from person to person. Rosacea is not contagious and is not caused by poor hygiene.

Many people choose to seek rosacea treatment as the condition can have a major impact on self-esteem and confidence, often having a negative effect in social situations and even impact upon career prospects.

Unfortunately, rosacea cannot be cured. However, there are a number of different rosacea treatments which can help to control the symptoms. A rosacea specialist here at the Cadogan Clinic will be able to advise you on which treatment will be best for you.

It is worth remembering that rosacea symptoms can get worse if not treated.

Before you seek treatment, you should seek a diagnosis as rosacea can present in a similar way to other conditions, including acne, lupus, contact dermatitis, seborrhoeic dermatitis and other types of dermatitis, and keratosis pilaris, where the hair follicles are blocked by a build-up of keratin.

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Words from our clients:

“I have used Dr Mayou for years as my children’s dermatologist and was very pleased to discover she could take care of me as well. She has been extremely helpful, checking for melanoma and other skin issues as well as more cosmetic concerns. I have found her to be sensible and practical with a lovely manner and trust she is looking after the whole picture of my skins health and looks.”

Jess K

"Everything was brilliant staff were incredibly friendly exact amount of info was given. Have already recommended this company to friends and family."

Clare Brooks

“Wonderful service, knowledgeable staff, friendly service and comfortable ambience - well run. I will use you again in the future.“

Sarah Tylor

"There is nothing that I feel could be improved at Cadogan Clinic. I was treated and looked after very well the place was very clean. Perfect. Thank you."

Emma Grant

"The treatment was for my daughter and the aesthetic practitioner couldn't have been more helpful and informative all through the course of treatment, it was a great treatment with a brilliant outcome. The whole experience was very professional and any worries we went in with were soon taken away after the team greeted us and treated us."

Jessica Yates

Why do people have this treatment?

Why do people have it & Who is suittable

People usually seek rosacea treatment for one or more of the following reasons:

To reduce redness and itchiness
Alleviate pain and discomfort
Restore an even skin tone
Improve self-esteem
Reduce stress, anxiety and unhappiness
Prevent symptoms from getting worse
Improve confidence in social situations and in the workplace

What causes Rosacea and what are the symptoms?

The symptoms of rosacea vary depending on the type of rosacea a person has and which stage of rosacea they have. Typical rosacea symptoms include:

Redness, rash or blushing across the nose, cheeks, forehead and chin. This redness may disappear quickly or may last for weeks of even months, depending on the severity of the condition.
Burning or stinging when using water or skin care products: Gentle oil-free, water-based skincare products should be used to avoid exacerbating rosacea.
Avoid skincare products which contain alcohol, menthol, exfoliating agents or witch hazel.
Acne–like breakouts
Dry skin
Swelling
Irritated, bloodshot eyes. This applies to ocular rosacea. Ocular rosacea can precede the skin symptoms of rosacea, develop at the same time, develop later or appear independently to skin rosacea.
Thickened skin: This typically occurs on the nose, but can also occur on other parts of the face, including the cheeks.
It is not known exactly what causes a person to develop rosacea. Genetics, the immune system and environmental factors may all play a part.

However there are a number of things which can cause symptoms to flare up. Diet in particular plays a major role in managing rosacea symptoms.

People who have rosacea should identify what triggers their symptoms and avoid them wherever possible. We recommend you keep a diary to record your food intake and to help you identify any potential triggers. Common rosacea triggers include:

Food & Drink

Alcohol: A red and bulbous nose is a typical symptom of untreated rosacea. However this symptom has, unfairly, become associated with excessive drinking. It is a myth that excessive drinking causes rosacea to develop. However, alcohol has been known to trigger rosacea flare ups. Research has suggested that red wine is the biggest culprit when it comes to aggravating symptoms, but hard liquor and other alcoholic drinks such as Champagne and beer, can also have an effect.
Spicy foods: It is believed that spicy foods can be a trigger for as many as 75 percent of adults with rosacea. This has been blamed on the chemical capsaicin, which gives these spicy foods their heat. Capsaicin can be commonly found in tabasco pepper, jalapenos, chili pepper and hot sauce.
Cheese: Cheese has been reported to cause rosacea symptoms to flare up. Dropping cheese and other dairy products such as yogurt and sour cream from your diet, or reducing the amount you consume, may lessen the likelihood of symptom flare ups.
Hot drinks: Hot drinks, such as tea and hot chocolate, can tend to set off rosacea symptoms in some people who have the condition. This is because the heat from the beverage induces flushing. People with rosacea were previously advised to avoid drinking caffeine, but recent research revealed that coffee may actually prove beneficial for people who suffer with rosacea. Caffeinated coffee reduces the rush of blood to the skin’s surface, is full of protective antioxidants, has an immunosuppressant effect to help curb inflammation and can balance the levels of hormones that are associated with rosacea.
Cinnamaldehyde foods: Cinnamaldehyde is the compound which gives cinnamon its familiar pungent flavour. It causes a warming sensation which triggers rosacea symptoms, leading to a flare up. Cinnamaldehyde is found in a range of foods, including citrus fruits, chocolate, tomatoes and cinnamon.

Lifestyle

Aerobic exercise: High-intensity aerobic exercises, such as running, spin and aerobics, can also be a trigger for rosacea symptoms. This is because aerobic exercise temporarily increases blood flow and heart rate, which can make the skin appear more red in those who already have blood vessel widening which is associated with rosacea.
Sun exposure: Just a short time in the sun can lead to flushing and redness in some people who suffer with rosacea. You should use liberal amounts of sun cream, even when it is not particularly sunny, to help prevent a flare up of symptoms.

Medications

Certain medications affect blood flow to the skin, leading to the appearance of symptoms. These medications include topical steroids, niacin (vitamin B3) and sympathomimetics, which are used to control blood pressure.

The cost of Rosacea Treatment

Consultations From

£ 250

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We treat hundreds of rosacea cases each year

Our team of 9 highly experienced specialist dermatologists have been handpicked to form one of the best independent dermatology units in the country

Our purpose build dermatology clinic is conveniently located off Sloane Square

What are the options?

There are three main treatments that will help to control the symptoms of rosacea. The effectiveness of these treatments depends on the individual patient and the severity of their symptoms.

Prescription creams and gels

Rozex (metronidazole) cream or gel, Soolantra (ivermectin) cream or Skinoren can be used in milder cases of pustules and papules. However these prescription creams and gels must be avoided or used with caution in certain patients, for example children and pregnant or breastfeeding women. This form of rosacea treatment may take several months to work, if it all. These topical medicines are not suitable for people displaying more serious symptoms of rosacea.

Antibiotics

In more serious cases of rosacea, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to be taken orally. A course of antibiotics may be taken for anywhere between six to 16 weeks. In some cases, creams may be used alongside antibiotics. Erythromycin, oxytetracycline and Efracea (doxycycline as monohydrate) are all medications which are typically prescribed for rosacea treatment.However, it may take several weeks of taking antibiotics before you see any meaningful results. Antibiotics for rosacea may not be suitable for patients with liver or kidney problems, myasthenia gravis (a condition that causes long-term muscle weakness) and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Some antibiotics are known to lessen the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill and may not be suitable to be taken alongside other medications. These vary depending on which antibiotic you are prescribed.

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatment

Fast and effective, we consider IPL to be the gold standard in terms of rosacea treatment. IPL for rosacea focuses on the visible blood vessels of the skin. The heat from the light targets the widened blood vessels and causes them to shrink until their visibility is significantly reduced.

When this procedure is performed, special care is taken to avoid causing damage to the surrounding skin tissue. This procedure may cause slight discomfort, however patients are usually able to undergo the entire procedure without the need for an anaesthetic.

The amount of procedures needed to get the desired results will vary depending on the patient and the severity of the condition. One of our rosacea specialists will be able to advise you on the number of procedures that you may need.

The side effects of IPL are usually minor and temporary. Typical side effects include itching, light bruising, redness, swelling, skin peeling and scabbing. Our consultant dermatologist will go over these with you before undergoing IPL for rosacea.

There is no known cure for rosacea, but timely treatment can stop the condition from getting worse and improve your quality of life.

Whatever your personal needs, you can rest assured that we will provide the leading UK consultant dermatologists, techniques and facilities for your rosacea treatment at our state-of-the-art, purpose-built, dermatology clinic in Sloane Street, Chelsea

Rosacea Specialists

We have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country.

Our Specialists

Dr. Andreea Anton

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Meena Arunachalam

Dermatologist

Dr Aveen Connolly

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Tamara W Griffiths

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Mia Jing Gao

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Wisam Alwan

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr Maham Khan

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr Soudeh Mashayekhi

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Hayley Leeman

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Susan Mayou

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Sophie Momen

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Amélie Seghers

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr Kristina Semkova

Consultant Dermatologist

Dr. Nisith Sheth

Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon

Dr Thomas Tull

Consultant Dermatologist

What to expect

Below you will find some key information to help you prepare for surgery and make necessary arrangements to ensure you have the support you need and that everything runs smoothly on the day.

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You will meet with one of our highly trained dermatologists at the Cadogan Clinic on Sloane Street, Chelsea for an in-person assessment of your skin.

Your consultant will discuss the following with you at this consultation:

The best options for treatment for you given your rosacea condition, and the results that you would likely achieve with each treatment
An explanation of the treatment or treatment plan
Go through your past medical history
Answer any questions you may have

3 Easy Steps

Visit the Clinic on Sloane Street, Chelsea for your in-person consultation with one of our dermatologists
Start your treatment plan
Return to the Clinic to see your dermatologist - if required - to monitor the progress of treatment

Cadogan Clinic. A strong tradition of innovation

Founded in 2004 by world renown dermatologist Dr Susan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.

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Why choose the Cadogan Clinic for your Rosacea treatment?

There are a number of reasons why you should come to Cadogan Clinic for your rosacea treatment.

We successfully treat hundreds of rosacea cases each year
Our team of ten highly experienced specialist dermatologists have been handpicked to form one of the best independent dermatology units in the country
Our rosacea specialists have the highest levels of training and qualifications
We work with major bodies and organisations to ensure standards are maintained. These include The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD), Royal College of Surgeons (RCS), Care Quality Commission (CQC) and the General Medical Council (GMC)
Our purpose-built dermatology clinic is conveniently located off Sloane Square, Chelsea

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the different types of Rosacea?

There are two main types of rosacea:

Vascular rosacea:

This particular type of rosacea is characterised by the flushing and persistent facial redness which is typically associated with the condition.

In vascular rosacea, the blood vessels become swollen under the skin, leading to flushing and persistent redness in the central parts of the face. Small blood vessels may also become visible on the face.

In vascular rosacea, the skin is sensitive and some people may experience burning, stinging, itching, swelling, dryness or roughness.

Inflammatory rosacea:

This form of rosacea is characterised by the appearance of bumps (papules) and/or pimples (pustules) on the face. These are common in many people who suffer from rosacea. Some patients may also experience raised red patches, which are commonly known as plaques.

These bumps and pimples come and go and are often mistaken for acne. However no whiteheads or blackheads are present. They appear mainly on the cheeks, but can also form around the mouth, nose, eyes, chin or on the forehead.

Papules and pustules may be accompanied by flushing, but this is not true of every person who has inflammatory rosacea.

Tiny blood vessels can usually be seen with inflammatory rosacea. The skin is easily irritated and inflammatory rosacea can also feel tender, rough or swollen and some people may experience a burning or stinging sensation during a flare up.

Less common types of rosacea are ocular rosacea, which affects the eye area, and phymatous rosacea (skin thickening) which usually affects the nose but can also affect the cheeks, chin, forehead or ears.

Often people experience a combination of different rosacea symptoms. One of our expert dermatologists will be able to identify which type of rosacea you have and how best to treat you

What are the four stages of rosacea?

There are four stages of rosacea: pre-rosacea, mild rosacea, moderate rosacea and severe rosacea.

Pre-rosacea: People who are prone to flushing or blushing are considered to be in stage one, otherwise known as pre-rosacea. Hot or spicy foods, vigorous exercise or embarrassing situations can prompt flushing or blushing which disappears shortly after the trigger is removed. The blood vessels start to become more sensitive, but there are no signs of damage to the blood vessel walls.
Mild rosacea: This stage begins when facial redness remains long after the trigger has been removed. This often lasts for half an hour or more. The blood vessels have sustained minor structural damage.
Moderate rosacea: Facial redness persists for days or weeks. There may be outbreaks of papules and pustules and people may experience swelling or burning sensations.
Severe rosacea: A small percentage of rosacea sufferers experience stage four rosacea. Severe inflammation can lead to pain, debilitating burning, as well as swelling and intense episodes of flushing. Blood vessels are extensively damaged and leaking. Some people develop rhinophyma, a bulbous enlargement of the nose.

How can I prevent rosacea?

It is not known what causes rosacea, so unfortunately you cannot prevent the condition itself. However, timely treatment, such as IPL, antibiotics and prescribed creams or gels, can prevent rosacea from getting worse. Avoiding known triggers, such as alcohol, certain foods and excessive sunlight, will prevent symptom flare ups or ensure that any flare ups are less severe. We recommend keeping a diary of what you eat and making a note of potential triggers so you know what to avoid in order to help control your symptoms.

Does drinking cause rosacea?

Research indicates that drinking alcohol is a common trigger for rosacea, and can increase the likelihood of a flare-up in an individual disposed to rosacea.

The risk of developing rosacea typically increases with the increase in alcohol consumed.

This is not always the case, however, and rosacea can be triggered by a variety of other emotional, environmental and medical factors.

It is also true that people who do not drink alcohol can suffer from rosacea.

Is rosacea genetic?

There is no definitive evidence that rosacea is genetic, although it is common that rosacea sufferers also have family members who suffer from the condition.

This is a very common disorder, impacting roughly 1% of the population.

Who commonly gets rosacea?

Rosacea sufferers are typically

Between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age
Fair skinned
Blonde haired, blue eyed
Likely related to someone who also has rosacea
Likely has or has had acne
Female

Is rosacea dangerous?

Rosacea is not a dangerous condition in and of itself.

That said, it can cause a serious impact on self-esteem and self-confidence, and have a negative effect on an individual's mental health and wellbeing.

Is there a cure for rosacea?

Unfortunately, there is no known cure for rosacea. The condition can occasionally get better with age, but this is rare.

The best way to prevent rosacea from getting worse is to treat the condition using IPL, antibiotics or prescribed creams or gels. You should avoid triggers wherever possible in order to prevent flare ups.

Treating rosacea will prevent it from getting any worse, but you will need to continue with treatment in order to maintain the results. One of the Cadogan Clinic’s expert dermatologists will be able to advise on the most appropriate treatment for you.

Is my rosacea treatment permanent?

Your results are not permanent, and it is not possible to completely cure rosacea. That said, it can be properly controlled and prevented from worsening via proper treatment.

How To Find Us

The Cadogan Clinic is based at 120 Sloane Street in Chelsea, just off Sloane Square and the Kings Road.

We are accessible by all major bus routes that pass through Sloane Square and Sloane Street, as well as Sloane Square tube station.

We are just a 5 minute walk northwards up Sloane Street once you have arrived at Sloane Square.

Local pay parking is available just around the corner from the Clinic on Cadogan Gate, Cadogan Square and Cadogan Gardens. Our local residential parking zone is the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.

Address: 120 Sloane Street, Chelsea, London, SW1X 9BW

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One of our friendly staff will be delighted to help with your enquiry.

0207 901 8500

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Our Lead Patient Advisor is here to support with any queries you may have

Rosacea

What is Rosacea?

Why do people have this treatment?

What causes Rosacea and what are the symptoms?

The cost of Rosacea Treatment

What are the options?

Rosacea Specialists

What to expect

Why choose the Cadogan Clinic for your Rosacea treatment?

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Find Us

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