Couperose & rosacea

Overview

In couperose, red, dilated small vessels become visible, particularly on the nose and cheeks. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in which inflammatory papules and pustules can develop in addition to the redness. Left untreated, the dilated vessels can progress; in pronounced cases, a bulbous tissue enlargement of the nose (rhinophyma) can develop.

Early treatment of the vascular component can improve the appearance of the skin. Which laser system is used depends on the thickness, extent and colour of the vessels. The inflammatory component of rosacea is additionally treated by the physician – usually with medication.

Areas of application

• Couperose (dilated, visible small vessels)
• Persistent facial redness
• Vascular component of rosacea
• Telangiectasia on the face

Procedure

1. Examination and selection of the system

   We assess the type and depth of the vessels and select the appropriate system – the systems used include the dye laser, KTP laser, long-pulse Nd:YAG laser and the IPL/RF system.

2. Laser treatment of the vessels

   The laser light is absorbed specifically by the red blood pigment and converted into heat; this closes the dilated vessels while the surrounding tissue is spared.

3. Follow-up and, if needed, further sessions

   Depending on the findings, several sessions can be advisable. We assess the progress together and plan further appointments if required.

What to expect

• Depending on the severity, several sessions are usually required.
• Immediately after the treatment, temporary redness and swelling are common; with some methods, short-lived bluish discolouration (purpura) can occur.
• The treatment affects the vessels but not the underlying predisposition – new small vessels can appear over time, so refresher treatments can be advisable.
• In rosacea, avoiding individual triggers (e.g. heat, alcohol, spicy food, UV light, stress) can ease the symptoms; if the eyes are also affected (burning, redness), this should additionally be evaluated.

Risks & notes

• Redness, swelling and – depending on the system – short-lived discolouration (purpura) are temporarily possible.
• Rarely, pigment shifts, blisters or, very rarely, superficial scars can occur.
• The result varies from person to person; complete and permanent removal cannot be guaranteed.
• Consistent sun protection supports the treatment outcome.
• On tanned or darker skin, the risk of pigment changes is increased; please attend untanned where possible and inform us about any medications that increase photosensitivity.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between couperose and rosacea?

Couperose refers to the visible dilated small vessels. Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin condition in which papules and pustules can additionally occur. The laser primarily treats the vascular component.

How many sessions are needed?

This depends on the extent and depth of the vessels; several sessions are usually advisable. We assess the progress together.

Do the small vessels come back?

The treatment removes the treated vessels but not the underlying predisposition. New small vessels can develop over time, so refresher treatments can be advisable.