Rosacea treatment

MinuteClinic providers are trained to assess the symptoms of rosacea and refer you for additional testing and diagnosis if needed. They can discuss your medical history, conduct a visual exam of the affected areas and provide a personalized treatment plan.

1. You may have to answer a few questions about symptoms to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material about your diagnosis. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

• Cathelicidin: This protein usually protects the skin from infections. It appears to cause the redness and swelling seen in rosacea.
• Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori): A bacterium that causes gut infections is common in people with rosacea.
• Skin mites: Demodex is a mite found on everyone's skin which tends to live on the nose and cheeks, where rosacea often appears
• Your genes: Susceptibility to rosacea may be passed down through your genes. Many people who get rosacea also have family members who have rosacea.
• Your immune system: The immune system may play a role. Studies found that most people with acne-like rosacea react to a type of bacteria called “Bacillus oleronius.”

At this time, there is no cure for rosacea, and the specific cause is unknown. However, scientists have found ways to treat the condition and minimize the symptoms.

The primary goal of a treatment plan is to prevent and control the episodes of redness, inflammation and skin eruptions. The most important aspect of treating rosacea is avoiding the common triggers that can cause the skin to flush, such as:

• Alcohol
• Intense exercise
• Spicy foods
• Stress
• Sun exposure
• Very hot or cold weather

Proper skincare can help. Use only mild cleansers and oil-free cosmetics and moisturizers to help prevent irritation. Apply a sunscreen with a broad spectrum of coverage — SPF 30 for UVB protection and zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or avobenzone for UVA. Some skincare products contain ingredients that may irritate skin and make your symptoms worse. For that reason, you should avoid products that contain the following ingredients:

• Alcohol
• Exfoliating agents and harsh cleansers
• Menthol
• Witch hazel

If left untreated, it can lead to acne or pimples, swollen bumps on the surface and an enlarged nose. Rosacea typically develops in people who are 30 years old or older and flare-ups often occur in cycles. You could experience symptoms for weeks or months at a time. The symptoms go away and then return.