Hey everyone, Trina Renea here, your go-to master esthetician and co-host of the Facially Conscious Podcast. In this special episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. James Wang, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist, about one of my favorite topics—rosacea and lasers! If you've been struggling with redness, flushing, and those pesky bumps, this episode was stacked with knowledgable tidbits, and I’m here to break it all down for you.
The Latest and Greatest in Lasers for Rosacea
If you have rosacea, you know that managing it can feel like an uphill battle. From topical treatments to oral medications, the journey to clear skin is often long and frustrating. But what if lasers could offer a more effective and long-term solution? Dr. Wang shared his expertise on the newest laser technologies, including the game-changing DermaV laser, which has been making waves in the dermatology world.
According to Dr. Wang, the DermaV laser is a breakthrough treatment for rosacea thanks to its dual-wavelength capabilities (1064/532 nm). This allows it to effectively target the red blood vessels that contribute to rosacea symptoms, providing results in fewer sessions than older technologies like the PDL and Vbeam lasers.
Why DermaV is a Game-Changer
One of the DermaV laser's most exciting aspects is its ability to specifically target oxyhemoglobin, the red component in blood vessels that causes visible redness and flushing in rosacea patients. The 532 nm wavelength is particularly effective at treating surface redness, while the 1064 nm wavelength penetrates deeper for more stubborn vascular issues.
And here’s the best part—there is minimal downtime! While some patients might experience mild swelling or redness after treatment, the advanced cryogen cooling system helps minimize discomfort and inflammation, making the process much more comfortable than previous laser options.
What to Expect During Treatment
I know you’re wondering—does it hurt? Dr. Wang explained that most patients can tolerate the procedure well without numbing. Still, since rosacea skin tends to be more sensitive, a short numbing session beforehand can make the experience even smoother.
Typically, a series of 1-3 treatments is recommended to achieve optimal results, but many patients see significant improvements after just one session. Dr. Wang also mentioned that consistent laser treatments over time can actually help "train" blood vessels to become less reactive, meaning longer-lasting results and fewer flare-ups.
Managing Rosacea with Lasers: Is It for You?
Lasers can be a fantastic option for managing rosacea, but they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Dr. Wang emphasized the importance of a customized approach based on the type and severity of rosacea you have. Whether you’re dealing with:
- Telangiectatic rosacea (visible blood vessels)
- Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (flushing and persistent redness)
- Papulopustular rosacea (bumps and breakouts)
- Ocular rosacea (eye involvement)
The DermaV laser can be tailored to meet your unique needs.
Laser Treatment Frequency and Maintenance
One of the most common questions we tackled in the podcast was how often you need laser treatments. Dr. Wang recommends starting with a few sessions to get rosacea under control, then transitioning to maintenance treatments every 6-12 months, depending on your lifestyle and skin’s response.
Consistency is key! Patients who keep up with their treatments experience longer-lasting results and reduced flare-ups over time. And remember—sunscreen is a must to maintain those results and protect your investment!
Real-Life Success Stories
One of our co-hosts shared her personal experience with DermaV, and the results were incredible. After three treatments, her redness had significantly diminished, and she relied less on prescription medications and heavy makeup to cover up the redness. She also noted that her skin texture had improved, and her confidence as !
The Cost Factor
Let’s talk money—because we all know skincare treatments can add up! Depending on where you are in the country, DermaV treatments typically range from $400 to $700 per session, which is a worthwhile investment considering the long-term benefits. Plus, when you compare it to the ongoing cost of topical creams and medications, laser treatments can actually be a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Finally…
Rosacea can be challenging to manage, but with advancements in laser technology like DermaV, there’s hope for clearer, calmer skin. Whether you’re considering laser treatments for the first time or looking to upgrade from older technologies, Dr. Wang’s insights were invaluable.
If you want to dive deeper into this topic and hear all of Dr. Wang's expert advice firsthand, make sure to listen to the full episode, Rosacea and Lasers with Dr. James Wang, of the Facially Conscious Podcast. Trust me—this is one episode you don't want to miss!
Until next time, stay glowing and facially conscious!
Trina Renea
P.S. Have you tried laser treatments for rosacea? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
