AESTHETIC MEDICAL CLINIC
Rosacea
Rosacea is one of the most common skin conditions we treat at Simon Lee Clinic in Bristol. Persistent facial redness, visible blood vessels and sensitivity around the cheeks, nose and forehead affect millions of people in the UK and at our Clifton clinic, we offer treatments that make a real, lasting difference.
Understanding Rosacea and Facial Redness
Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the central face, typically the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead. It causes persistent redness, visible thread veins, skin sensitivity and, in some presentations, acne-like breakouts. It is more common than many people realise, and more treatable than many people assume.
The cause is multifactorial. Rosacea involves abnormal vascular reactivity, an altered skin microbiome and, in some cases, a reaction to a skin mite called Demodex. Triggers vary between individuals but commonly include heat, alcohol, spicy food, UV exposure, stress and certain skincare products. Understanding and avoiding your triggers is an important part of managing the condition long-term.
At our Clifton, Bristol clinic, we offer a combination approach, because rosacea is a condition that responds best to combination treatment. There is no single cure, but with the right combination of clinical treatments and a structured skincare programme, the visible signs can be significantly reduced.
Treatments We Use for Rosacea
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is one of the most effective treatments available for the persistent redness and visible blood vessels associated with rosacea. The light energy targets the haemoglobin in superficial vessels, causing them to collapse and be reabsorbed. A course of three to five sessions produces meaningful improvement in the majority of patients.
Endovenous short-wave diathermy is ideal for individual thread veins, particularly around the nose and chin. A very fine needle targets each vessel directly, coagulating and closing it with precision.
A structured skincare programme using ZO Skin Health products can help to regulate redness, strengthen the skin barrier and reduce the frequency of flare-ups. We prescribe and advise on home skincare at consultation.
Medical skin peels can improve skin texture and tone, though they are used cautiously in rosacea, the type and formulation matter enormously. We will advise on the appropriate approach.
Frequently Asked Questions, Rosacea
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Can rosacea be cured?
Rosacea is a chronic condition, it cannot be permanently cured. But the visible signs can be substantially reduced and the condition managed very effectively with the right combination of treatments and skincare. Many patients achieve long periods of remission.
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How many IPL sessions will I need?
Most patients see significant improvement over a course of three to five sessions spaced three to four weeks apart. We will give a realistic assessment at your initial consultation.
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Can I use normal skincare products?
Many standard skincare products contain fragrances, acids or other ingredients that can exacerbate rosacea. At your consultation, we will advise on appropriate prescription-grade products and a home routine designed specifically for rosacea-prone skin.