What is Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea?

Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea is a subtype of rosacea most characterized by its flushing, background erythema, and telangiectasia. It may also be accompanied by burning, stinging, or facial edema.

Erythematotelangiectatic Rosacea arises from a dysregulation in the cutaneous vasomotor response, triggered by hormonal, thermal neurogenic, topical, or other stimuli and it results in an abnormal and persistent dilation of facial blood vessels.

Topical treatments like metronidazole, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, 0.05%, laser therapy, azelaic acid, and brimonidine can also be used to treat erythematotelangiectatic rosacea.

Metronidazole works as an anti-inflammatory drug by changing neutrophil chemotaxis and inactivating reactive oxygen species. Metronidazole 0.75% has been shown to reduce erythema, papules, and pustules in patients with moderate to severe rosacea.

Vascular lasers, or intense pulse light, may help to reduce background erythema and telangiectases, but will not reduce the number of flushing episodes. Laser therapies that target the vessels can also be used such as 595 nm pulsed dye laser, Nd: YAG and other vascular lasers, or intense pulsed light therapy.

Topical azelaic acid is an over-the-counter product that has anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. A 15% gel and 20% lotion are available for use and can be applied once or twice daily.

We can understand the safety and effectiveness of oxymetazoline hydrochloride, 0.05% by looking into a study consisting of 2 patients:

The 2 patients had the typical features of ETR rosacea (stinging, burning, easily triggered, treatment-resistant, persistent facial erythema, and socially embarrassing).

These 2 patients used oxymetazoline hydrochloride, 0.05%, solution to treat erythematotelangiectatic rosacea ( an over-the-counter drug that possesses vasoconstrictive properties) and were applied once daily to the affected area of the face.

Both patients noted a decrease in facial erythema within 1 hour of applying the drug, and a huge improvement within 2 to 3 hours. This effect was continuous throughout the entire day. The patients also showed noted an improvement in the chronic baseline erythema, experienced a reduction in flares, and experienced no stinging or burning.

Brimonidine has anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat patients with moderate-to-severe rosacea by narrowing the blood vessels (reducing redness) in the skin.

Your skincare routine can consist of a:

1. A gentle cleanser
2. Topical metronidazole, oxymetazoline hydrochloride, 0.05%, azelaic acid, or brimonidine (you can consult a doctor and they will suggest the best treatment for you).
3. Sunscreen
4. Moisturizer