Rosacea is a persistent, inflammatory skin condition with symptoms ranging from mild to severe redness, flushing and blushing, broken capillaries, mottled skin, textural issues, and breakouts/acne. Effecting more women than men, this condition mainly impacts individuals between the ages of 30 – 60 years of age. It is estimated that this condition impacts at least 1 in every 10 individuals, making it a common dermatological concern.

A key ingredient to the success of your clients’ treatment is their commitment to their treatment cycle. Easier said than done, the National Rosacea Society recognizes some of the key factors that can interfere with a sufferer’s commitment to the consistency and length of treatment. Reasons for quitting treatment or neglecting the assigned treatment schedule can include the client assuming the signs and symptoms have cleared up, affordability concerns and believing the treatment is ineffective.

A survey with Rosacea clients finds that over 75% assessed a treatment’s efficacy within a 4-week period, while more than 50% did so within 2 weeks or less. Meanwhile, experts recommend giving a treatment at least 12 weeks before determining its efficacy. Research also shows that at least 28% would take breaks from their treatment regimen, and experts understand that number to be way higher in practice.

The question arises, how can we support our clients in staying committed and enthused about their treatment cycle? As med-aesthetic professionals, we’re in the perfect position to highlight to our clients the efficacy of laser in treating Rosacea, especially with SharpLight’s proprietary Dynamic Pulse ControlTM technology. We’re also a key resource for them to understand that with proper care there is high hope for effective results and the improved lifestyle that can come with it. Your client may also turn to you for emotional support as they journey to healed skin.

Here’s how you can help your Rosacea clients better navigate this transition through their treatment cycle.

1. Understand the Power of your DPC^TM Technology

Your Dynamic Pulse Control^TM Technology comes with a combination of handpieces that equip you to provide the best of laser solutions to your Rosacea clients. Our Dual VP and VP 535 handpieces are especially designed to target superficial vessels that bring about the redness associated with Rosacea while protecting the surrounding tissue.

Persistent inflammation can also cause post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, therefore treating both vascular and pigmentation is advantageous for rosacea clients. Our VP 535 and Dual VP handpieces are designed to target both pigmented and vascular lesions.

After a full series of treatments with the VP 535, yellow wavelengths such as those in the SR 580 can be used to further coagulate blood vessels. You’re in the perfect position to provide the optimal combination of laser wavelengths to produce superior results.

This is also where collecting quality BNAs is helpful; by showing your clients the success of other clients committed to the treatment protocol, you can boost their morale and desire to commit to the treatment cycle. It’s important to also emphasize that each case is different, therefore individual results may vary.

2. Consult with Care

Understanding the ‘why’ behind your client’s decision to pursue treatment will help you better support them during their treatment cycle. Also being aware of other medications they may be taking will help you assess whether they safely qualify for receiving DPC^TM treatments.

One of the most frustrating aspects of rosacea is the visibility of its symptoms. Rosacea often causes persistent redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the face, which can be difficult to conceal or control. Dealing with these visible symptoms can lead to self-consciousness, embarrassment, and a negative impact on self-esteem.

The resulting discomfort, itching, and burning sensations make Rosacea physically unpleasant to deal with, thereby impacting quality of life. The emotional toll of living with rosacea, including anxiety, depression, and reduced self-confidence, can further exacerbate the frustration associated with the condition.

It is important to be empathetic to the concerns and frustrations of your client while conducting their assessment, and during their treatment cycle.

3. Educate about At-Home Care

In order to receive the full efficacy of a treatment series, it is important that your clients understand the value of their pre and post treatment care habits. It is crucial that your clients avoid sun exposure and tanning post treatment – which can aggravate skin and cause hyperpigmentation. We want the application of sun protection cream with an SPF of at least 30 to be a staple in your clients’ daily skincare routine. This rings true even in winter.

Proper cleaning and moisturizing twice daily with a gentle cleanser and hydrating moisturizer is foundational in optimizing results and ensuring the best possible outcomes. Doing so also improves the itchy burning sensation that clients with Rosacea often experience. Moisturizing ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid should be used while harsher ingredients like certain acids should be avoided.

By engaging in daily skincare routines with ingredients that support the skin, your client can develop a positive self-care habit that not only improves the skin’s appearance but also helps them feel more in control over the situation.

Actively participating in and following a treatment plan tailored to their needs can make clients feel more in control of their skincare journey. This sense of empowerment can increase their commitment and motivation to see the treatment through successfully.

4. Emphasize the Role of Lifestyle

Several factors can trigger or worsen Rosacea symptoms, including wind, cold, sunlight, spicy foods, alcohol, some cosmetics, and certain hair care products – amongst others. Advise your clients to keep track of any such factors that influence their symptom expression.

Adjusting habits such as limiting alcohol and caffeine, avoiding hot baths/showers, and using scarves and hats can make a significant difference when managing Rosacea.

Stress is also a common trigger for Rosacea. Healthy coping mechanisms such as meditation, getting quality sleep, engaging in regular exercise, and relaxation techniques can all be useful in regulating our stress response. Consider suggesting these techniques when providing your clients with post-treatment guidelines.

5. Host Rosacea Support Groups

Recognizing shared experiences with other Rosacea sufferers can provide valuable feedback to those challenged with the skin condition. If you find enough of your clientele to be seeking treatment for this skin concern – consider starting a bi-weekly or monthly Rosacea support group at your clinic. Even a group of 3 – 5 people is enough to get started.

As your clients’ skincare treatment expert, you’re in the perfect position to support your client in their healing journey. Your DPC^TM technology has the power to combat some of the toughest vascular and pigmentation concerns. With quality consultation, at-home care, and education, you can support your clients in properly committing to the treatment cycle required to see results. What changes will you implement today?