Rosacea and Ocular Rosacea: What You Need to Know

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What is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that often shows up as persistent redness, flushing, and visible blood vessels on the face. Some people also experience bumps, irritation, and sensitivity. It’s very common and often appears in adults between 30 and 60 years old, especially those with fair skin.

Most people recognize rosacea when it affects their skin, but many don’t know that it can also affect their eyes.

What is Ocular Rosacea?

Ocular rosacea is rosacea that affects the eyes. In fact, up to 50% of people with rosacea on their skin also have ocular rosacea, though many don’t realize it.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Red, watery, or bloodshot eyes

• A burning, stinging, or gritty sensation

• Dry, irritated eyes that may feel like there’s “sand” in them

• Swollen eyelids or small bumps along the lash line

• Blurred vision in more advanced cases

Because these symptoms overlap with dry eye disease, ocular rosacea is often misdiagnosed or overlooked. That’s why it’s important for anyone with facial rosacea to have a comprehensive eye exam.

How Are Rosacea and Ocular Rosacea Connected?

Both conditions are linked to inflammation and abnormal blood vessel activity. In the eyes, this often leads to meibomian gland dysfunction (clogged oil glands along the eyelids), which worsens dryness and irritation.

The good news is that treating the root cause of rosacea can improve both skin and eye symptoms.

IPL Therapy: A Solution for Skin and Ocular Rosacea

At Lynn Valley Optometry, we offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, an advanced treatment that addresses rosacea at its source.

How IPL works:

• Targets abnormal blood vessels: The light energy reduces the tiny blood vessels that cause facial redness and ocular inflammation.

• Improves meibomian gland function: By reducing inflammation, IPL helps unclog the eyelid oil glands, restoring healthy tear production.

• Soothes the eyes and skin: Patients often notice reduced facial redness, less eye irritation, and improved overall comfort.

Benefits of IPL for Rosacea and Ocular Rosacea:

• Non-invasive and gentle

• Quick sessions with no downtime

• Long-lasting relief from redness, dryness, and irritation

• Improves both the look of your skin and the comfort of your eyes

Additional Skin Benefits of IPL

Beyond rosacea relief, IPL is widely recognized for its skin rejuvenation benefits. Patients often see improvements in overall skin tone and texture, including:

• Reduction of sun spots and age spots

• Lightening of hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone Diminishing of fine lines and early wrinkles

• Minimization of visible blood vessels and broken capillaries

• Smoother, more radiant-looking skin

This makes IPL a powerful dual-purpose treatment: it helps restore eye comfort while also refreshing the appearance of your skin.

Why Choose Lynn Valley Optometry for Rosacea Care?

We understand that rosacea is more than just a skin condition — it can impact your eye health and confidence. That’s why we combine advanced diagnostic technology, personalized care, and IPL therapy to create a treatment plan that supports both your vision and your skin.

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Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you have rosacea and struggle with dry, irritated, or red eyes, you may have ocular rosacea. Don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen.

📞 Call Lynn Valley Optometry at 604-987-9191 or book your consultation online. Let’s explore whether IPL therapy is right for you.

CLEARER SKIN, MORE COMFORTABLE EYES — RELIEF STARTS HERE.