Sydney’s leading dermatologist, Dr Ritu Gupta, recently joined host Rebecca D. Yunauno on ABC 702 Radio’s afternoon program to shed light on rosacea, a common yet often misunderstood skin condition.
Dr Gupta began by explaining that rosacea occurs when blood vessels become overly sensitive, reacting to triggers like red wine, spicy foods, and stress. This sensitivity leads to the characteristic flushing and blushing that can cause embarrassment. Beyond redness, rosacea can also manifest as acne-like bumps and may even affect the eyes. While more prevalent in fair-skinned individuals, the condition also appears in people of Indian, Chinese and Southeast Asian descent.
Discussing its onset, Dr Gupta noted that rosacea typically emerges in midlife, often between the ages of 30 and 40, and is sometimes linked to a history of teenage acne. She stressed that the first and most crucial step toward relief is obtaining an expert diagnosis.
Dr Gupta explained that vascular lasers and vascular broadband light are the gold standard for reducing redness. For acne-like symptoms, topical medications such as ivermectin or oral antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline are commonly prescribed.
She also highlighted the importance of lifestyle adjustments, including minimising triggers like certain foods and managing stress. Additionally, women in perimenopause and menopause may experience rosacea and should discuss their symptoms with their GP.
Given that rosacea is common in people with sensitive skin, Dr Gupta advised a “less is more” approach to skincare. She recommended avoiding complex anti-aging products and heavily perfumed options in favour of a simpler routine.
During the show, Dr Gupta answered questions from callers on a range of topics, including treatments for ocular rosacea, the long-term effects of medication, and the impact of diet and other medical conditions on rosacea symptoms.
The program concluded with Dr Ritu Gupta’s expert insights, empowering listeners with a deeper understanding of how to manage their skin conditions.
Listen to the full interview on ABC 702 Radio here:
To consult with Dr Ritu, you can book online, send a WhatsApp message to 0493 766 096, or call (02) 8014 6500.
