FACE

Rosacea

A chronic skin disorder that causes inflammation of the skin particularly affecting the “blush” areas of the face, especially cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, and is more common in people who flush easily. This skin condition is characterized by symptoms including:

  • frequent flushing, irregular redness (erythema)
  • burning
  • inflamed swelling
  • papules and pustules
  • small cysts
  • thickening of facial tissue especially the nose
  • fine red vascular lines (telangiectasia)
  • rhinophyma (enlarged, bulbous red nose)
  • swollen, reddened eyelids
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https://www.idsclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/rosacea-hero-img.jpgRosacea
Diagram illustrating different recognised types of rosacea Diagram illustrating different recognised types of rosacea

Types of Rosacea

  • Erythematotelangiectatic rosacea: Redness, flushing, visible blood vessels.
  • Papulopustular rosacea: Redness, swelling, and acne-like breakouts.
  • Phymatous rosacea: Thickened skin with a bumpy texture.
  • Ocular rosacea: Reddened and irritated eyes, eyelids may be swollen, leaving them to resemble a sty.

What are the causes?

Health researchers notice that a variety of triggers such as alcohol consumption, spicy foods, certain medications, smoking, as well as climatic changes like strong winds, extended UV exposure and heat, are known to cause rosacea to flare.

Emotional factors such as stress, fear, anxiety, or embarrassment may also produce blushing and aggravate rosacea.

Other factors like genetics also play a part so it is possible to inherit the genes for rosacea. The body’s immunity may also play a role as scientists found that most people with acne-like rosacea react to a bacterium called bacillus oleronius. This reaction causes their immune system to overreact.

Rosacea sufferers are also found to have large numbers of demodex a mite that commonly lives on everyone’s skin, especially on the nose and cheeks. Additionally, abnormalities in the blood vessels of the face can also cause flushing, persistent redness, and visible blood vessels.

Educational image showing under-eye skin changes

Treatments

Although there is no cure for rosacea, there are treatments available to help reduce or eliminate signs of rosacea, ease any discomfort and prevent the condition from worsening.

Topical skincare products used for rosacea-prone skin

Topicals

These help reduce inflammation and redness and are applied to the skin either once or twice a day. They are commonly used in combination with some oral medications. Antibiotics like metronidazole, tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, and azelaic acid are examples of commonly prescribed topical medications.

  • Azelaic acid. Research studies show that between 70 to 80% of patients have experienced noticeably less rosacea with the use of azelaic acid. You may feel some tingling or burning at first but this tends to go away with continued usage. If it persists, stop using and seek professional help. Another possible side effect is skin lightening. Be sure to tell your doctor immediately if it happens.
  • Metronidazole. Research shows that it can effectively reduce both the redness and the acne-like breakouts. With metronidazole, some patients are able to stop application and keep the results they gained. Possible side effects of using metronidazole gel or cream include itching, stinging, irritated skin, or dryness where you apply the medication.
  • Sodium sulfacetamide and sulfur. These ingredients are considered safe for treating acne-like breakouts and surrounding redness. They are available in over-the-counter treatments such as a cleanser. In research findings, patients typically see a 65 to 78% improvement in 6 to 8 weeks. Possible common side effects include itching, dryness, temporary redness, or irritated skin. These tend to decrease as you use the medication.
  • Retinoid. Primarily a form of vitamin A that though can irritate the skin, can also help prevent flare-ups and reduce signs of aging. This option may not be suitable for everyone so check with your medical doctor if retinoid is right for you.
Educational image showing oral care context for rosacea information

Oral

  • Antibiotics. Prescribed for their anti-inflammatory properties, oral antibiotics tend to give faster results than topical ones. Patients are shown to have noticeably fewer acne-like breakouts within one month. Once under control, another treatment such as low-dose doxycycline may be recommended to maintain results to prevent antibiotic resistance.
  • Isotretinoin. Although approved to treat severe acne or inflammatory rosacea and shown to reduce the redness and acne-like breakouts, isotretinoin is a powerful drug that inhibits the production of oil by the sebaceous glands. Side effects may be severe such as birth defects so it’s not an option for every patient.
Patient receiving rosacea-related skin care in a clinic setting

In-clinic Procedures

  • Laser or light therapy. Laser treatment options such as pulsed dye laser and Intense Pulse Light (IPL) can be useful in treating visible blood vessels of rosacea and reducing persistent redness.

For rhinophyma, Carbon Dioxide Laser may be used to reduce the thickness of the skin. During treatment, you may experience skin tightening, itch, or pain. After treatment, you may see some redness with other side effects like bruising, crusting of the skin, swelling, and rashes. But these effects will usually disappear within two weeks. To achieve optimum results, several treatment sessions may be required.

Is your rosacea affecting your quality of life? Consult our doctors for an accurate diagnosis of your condition and a suitable treatment plan.

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Our Doctors

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Clinic portrait of Dr SK Tan in medical attire

Dr. SK Tan

Special Interest

  • Hyper-pigmentation
  • Anti-Aging
  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Ingredient Studies

Dr. SK Tan

Dr Tan graduated in 1971, with a Bachelors of Medicine (MB) and a Bachelors of Surgery (BS) from the University of Malaya. Dr Tan’s interest in dermatology led him to train at the St John’s Institute of Dermatology in London in the 1970s and he has since been focused in the field of aesthetic dermatology.

  • MBBS
  • Diploma in Venereology (University of London)
  • Diploma in Dermatology (University of Wales)
  • Diploma in Cosmetic Science (UK)
  • Master of Business Administration
  • Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD)

He is a member of numerous medical associations, including the American Academy of Dermatology, the International Society of Cosmetic Laser Surgeons, and the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology. Dr Tan was one of the first local doctors to be certified by the American Board of Anti-Aging Medicine. His personal interest in pigmentary disorders and acne has also led him to become an International Member of the Pigmentary Disorders Society of India, the Asian Society of Pigment Cell Research, and the American Acne and Rosacea Society (AARS).

Dr Tan’s work has led him to be invited to speak at numerous international conferences in the US, Europe and throughout the Asia Pacific region. He is a co-editor of “Handbook of Cosmetic Microbiology”, a reference book published by Marcel Dekker, and his papers have been published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, International Journal of Dermatology, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology, Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy, and Expert Review of Dermatology, and has contributed a chapter in the reference book ‘Pigmentary Disorders: A Comprehensive Compendium’.

Special Interest

  • Hyper-pigmentation
  • Anti-Aging
  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Ingredient Studies
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Portrait of Dr Ben Yim at IDS Clinic Singapore

Dr. Ben Yim

Special Interest

  • Anti-aging
  • Hyper-pigmentation
  • Body-Contouring
  • Fat Reduction

Dr. Ben Yim

Dr Yim graduated from Monash University in Australia with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree. He has also earned a Master of Science in Clinical Dermatology from the University of London and more recently in Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetics from Anglia Ruskin University in UK, as well as a Graduate Diploma in Family Physicians in National University of Singapore.

  • M.B.B.S (Monash University) 1994
  • Diploma Practical Dermatology (University of Wales College of Medicine) 1998
  • MSc. Clinical Dermatology (University of London) 1999
  • MBA (University of Chicago) 2011
  • MSc Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetics (Anglia Ruskin) 2018
  • GDFM (NUS) 2019

Dr Yim has been practicing aesthetic medicine in private practice since 2000. The former director of Clinical Aesthetics & Laser Centre has been offering a wide armamentarium of aesthetic services including Botulinum Toxins, fillers for facial enhancement, skin tightening, fractional lasers, threadlifts, and non-invasive body contouring treatments.

As a trainer for Allergan Medical Institute in Singapore, Dr Yim has been invited to speak and train for numerous aesthetic workshops and conferences including “The Advanced Facial Anatomy and Injectables Workshop”, Botulinum Toxins and Filler injectable training workshops organized by Allergan, “The Singapore Disease Conference 2008” and “1st International Conference on Healthcare Transformation 2008” and Forum for Professional Self-regulation jointly organized by the SingHealth Centre for Health Services Research and the NUS Medical Society, to name a few.

Dr Yim comes from a family of four doctors, all in private practice in family medicine. Despite the move into full-time aesthetic medicine, Dr Yim has also taken an interest in family medicine pursuing a Master degree in Medicine in Family Medicine in NUS in which he hopes to complete in 2020.

Outside of his profession, Dr Yim also actively participates in social projects such as tattoo laser removal for prison inmates and teenage delinquents. For leisure, he enjoys golf, reading, playing the piano and running – he has participated in several half-marathons.

Special Interest

  • Anti-aging
  • Hyper-pigmentation
  • Body-Contouring
  • Fat Reduction
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Portrait of Dr Michelle at IDS Clinic Singapore

Dr. Michelle Wong

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Focused Ultrasound Lifting
  • Skin Brightening
  • Cryo based Treatment

Dr. Michelle Wong

Dr Michelle Wong graduated from The University of Melbourne, Australia with a Bachelors of Medicine, Bachelors of Surgery and Bachelors of Medical Science. She obtained her post-graduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology with Distinction from the Queen Mary University of London, and holds a Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine with the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM).

  • MBBS from The University of Melbourne, Australia
  • Diploma in Clinical Dermatology from Queen Mary University of London
  • Diploma in Aesthetics Medicine from American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine
  • Diploma in Cosmetic Science (UK)

In aesthetics, Dr Wong believes she has discovered her ikigai – the intersection of what she is both good at and loves doing. Her preferred tools of the trade are injectables such as Botulinum Toxins & fillers, which she wields with finesse and intuition - often achieving what her patients desire but cannot express through words. Out of passion and interest, she regularly attends conferences and workshops, eager to learn about the latest treatments and techniques to further hone her craft.

Combining the science of medicine with the art of beauty, Dr Wong provides an honest consult to help her patients achieve their skincare and beauty goals. She believes in understated elegance – a focus on a less-is-more approach - and works to enhance her patients’ natural features whilst instilling self-confidence. Her reassuring and gentle approach puts patients at ease allowing her to achieve maximum results through safe and effective procedures.

In her free time, Dr Wong enjoys taking long walks with her dog at the park. Her family praises her inner domestic goddess that can whip up an impressive variety of home-cooked meals. She is also active in church medical missions and believes in contributing back to society through her God-given gifts and talents.

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Focused Ultrasound Lifting
  • Skin Brightening
  • Cryo based Treatment
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Medical professional portrait taken in clinic environment

Dr. Vivian Yong

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Fillers
  • Neurotoxin Injection - Botulinum Toxins
  • Face Lifting
  • Facial Enhancement

Dr. Vivian Yong

Dr Vivian Yong graduated from National University of Singapore in 2006, and has an experience of more than 10 years in Aesthetics. She has also accumulated extensive surgical skills and experience from various rotations in general surgery, ophthalmology, and ENT.

  • MBBS
  • GDFM

Dr Vivian has always had a natural inclination towards science subjects and this led her into medicine. During her medical graduate days, she developed a keen interest in Aesthetics and Skincare, and she believes that Aesthetics is one area that allows her to help a patient achieve their ideal artistic expression based on science. While Dr Vivian is always keen to accommodate her patients’ needs, she ensures that their welfare remains the utmost priority. This is why Dr Vivian is loved by her patients for always being meticulous and attentive to details.

Dr Vivian’s eye for beauty goes beyond aesthetics. Outside the clinic, Dr Vivian loves to spend her time in leather crafting and jewelry making, transforming basics into beauty. She also loves spending her quiet time exercising in the gym or chilling at home with her loved one.

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Fillers
  • Neurotoxin Injection - Botulinum Toxins
  • Face Lifting
  • Facial Enhancement
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Portrait of Dr Sean Lim at IDS Clinic Singapore

Dr. Sean Lim

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Fillers
  • Neurotoxin Injection - Botulinum Toxins
  • Face Lifting
  • Facial Enhancement

Dr. Sean Lim

Dr Sean is a dedicated medical professional with a diverse background in procedural disciplines and holistic care. He graduated with an MBBS degree from the National University of Singapore, earning recognition on the Dean's List for his exemplary performance in his final year Professional Examination.

  • MBBS (Singapore)
  • Certified Personal Trainer

Dr Sean is a dedicated medical professional with a diverse background in procedural disciplines and holistic care. He graduated with an MBBS degree from the National University of Singapore, earning recognition on the Dean's List for his exemplary performance in his final year Professional Examination. Fully registered with the Singapore Medical Council (SMC), Dr Sean is also certified to perform aesthetic procedures by the Aesthetic Dermatology Educational Group (ADEG). Beyond his clinical practice, Dr Sean actively engages in community service and leadership endeavours. He has contributed his medical expertise to humanitarian missions, including Naamjai Medical Missions trips to Thailand and a collaborative effort with plastic surgeons from NUH at Yangon's Defense Services General Hospital (DSGH).

Dr Sean's commitment to excellence extends beyond the medical field. As a former Singapore national athlete in pole vaulting, he has represented Singapore in numerous international competitions, earning accolades and setting records. Dr Sean’s passion for health and fitness is evident in his certification as a personal trainer and his dedication to maintaining an active lifestyle.

A proud new father, Dr Sean cherishes quality time with his family outside of work commitments, demonstrating a balanced approach to life and well-being. His belief in delivering quality care with a personal touch reflects his ethos as a compassionate healthcare provider.

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Fillers
  • Neurotoxin Injection - Botulinum Toxins
  • Face Lifting
  • Facial Enhancement
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A doctor in navy scrubs with the IDS Clinic logo standing in a modern clinic setting.

Dr. Roy Soo

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Injectable procedures
  • Facial rejuvenation
  • Skin tightening and contouring
  • Energy-based skin treatments

Dr. Roy Soo

Dr Roy Soo is an aesthetic physician with almost a decade of clinical experience and a special interest in acne, acne scarring, facial rejuvenation, and regenerative aesthetic treatments. Having personally experienced adult-onset acne, he understands the impact that skin concerns can have on confidence and wellbeing. Guided by a "less is more" philosophy, Dr Roy focuses on achieving natural-looking results through evidence-based treatments, patient education, and personalised care. He works closely with patients to develop treatment plans that support healthy skin while respecting individual features and aesthetic goals.

  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), NUS
  • Master of Public Health (MPH), NUS
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology (Distinction), QMUL

Dr Roy Soo graduated from the National University of Singapore with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) as well as a Master of Public Health (MPH). He is also an alumnus of the Queen Mary University of London, holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Clinical Dermatology with Distinction (PgDipDerm, Distinction). He has obtained full accreditation mandated by the Singapore Medical Council and Ministry of Health to perform medical aesthetics treatments. Having experienced adult onset acne, he has extensive experience living with and treating acne and its sequelae such as hyperpigmentation and scarring. His other special interests include regenerative treatments using energy-based devices as well as injectable biostimulators.   

With almost a decade of clinical experience as a medical doctor, Dr Roy approaches medical aesthetics through the lens of a physician and the hands of an artisan, respecting the science behind the skin while appreciating facial harmony with artistic judgement. Actively countering filler fatigue and trend toxicity, he is trusted by discerning patients for his carefully crafted combination treatments that are guided by the “less is more, elegance over excess” philosophy. Championing evidence-based treatments,   

Dr Roy focuses on empowering his patients through education and shared decision-making. His patients delight in honest and open discussions during consultations, while his calm and assuring demeanour provides comfort during treatments. Emphasising on “beauty beyond clinic”, with greater ownership of results by patients through lifestyle modifications and use of skincare at home, treatment outcomes are amplified and longer lasting. Fostering a partnership rooted in transparency and centred on the patient’s wellbeing, care for their skin and beauty continues long after they step out of the clinic.   

A proponent of complete wellness of the body, mind and spirit, Dr Roy supplements the intellectual stimulation at work with physical exertion in the gym after work. At home his responsibilities are toward his Doberman Pinscher, a faithful companion he adopted from an animal rescue shelter. When he is not in Singapore, he is almost definitely in the mountains snowboarding.  

Philosophy: Less is more. Subtle and gradual improvements leave the longest lasting impact. The best aesthetic outcomes are those that preserve authenticity while elevating confidence - look and feel good in your own skin!

Special Interest

  • Acne
  • Acne Scarring
  • Injectable procedures
  • Facial rejuvenation
  • Skin tightening and contouring
  • Energy-based skin treatments
Make An Enquiry

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    FAQs on Rosacea

    Can rosacea be prevented?

    There is no guaranteed way to prevent rosacea, but you can take steps to reduce your risk of flare-ups.

    Is rosacea contagious?

    No, rosacea is not contagious. It is a non-infectious skin condition that cannot be spread from person to person.

    Can rosacea lead to more serious health problems?

    In rare cases, severe untreated rosacea can lead to eye problems, such as inflammation and vision loss. However, with proper management and treatment, the risk of complications is low.

    Can rosacea affect other parts of the body besides the face?

    Rosacea primarily affects the face, but it can also appear on the neck, chest, and scalp. Rarely, it can affect the eyes, causing irritation, dryness, and redness. This type of rosacea is known as ocular rosacea and requires prompt medical attention.

    Can diet impact rosacea symptoms?

    While there is no specific "rosacea diet," some people find that avoiding certain foods and beverages can reduce their symptoms. Common triggers include spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, and dairy products. However, more research is needed to confirm the link between diet and rosacea.