Finacea gel or cream – New Treatment For Rosacea

Finacea gel or cream was the first new rosacea treatment to be approved in more than a decade. It was approved by the FDA in 2003 for the treatment of mild to moderate rosacea. The two clinical trials that evaluated it found that it reduced the number of inflammatory papules and pustules.

Finacea gel contains 15% azelaic acid, an active ingredient which is also used to treat acne. Azelaic acid is found naturally in wheat, rye and barley and appears to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

How does Finacea work?

The mechanisms by which finacea benefits rosacea are not fully understood. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and appears to be effective in reducing skin redness and the papules and pustules associated with rosecea.

Does Finacea have any side effects?

As with many other pharmaceutical drugs, there are possible side effects associated with Finacea. Symptoms such as burning, stinging, tingling and itching of the skin may happen during the first few weeks and then subside as your body gets used to the medication. Other possible symptoms include an abnormal reaction of the skin to light (usually a rash) and excessive facial hair growth (rarely). Infrequently, Finacea Gel may cause abnormal changes in skin color. Dark-skinned people may notice a lightening in skin color.

When should Finacea not be used?

Finacea should not be used on sunburned, dry, chapped or irritated skin because it can make the condition worse. It should also be avoided if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients such as propylene glycol.

How should Finacea be used?

Finacea is a topical treatment and should only be used externally on the skin. It should never be taken internally. It should be used once in the morning and again in the evening on the affected areas. Before you apply the Finacea Gel, wash the areas to be treated with a very mild soap or soap-free cleanser and pay dry with a soft towel. Apply a thin layer of the gel and gently massage it into the skin. Make sure you wash your hands afterwards.
 
It's important to avoid getting the medication into your eyes, mouth or nose, but if you do, then wash it out lots of water. Also, don't put bandages or dressings over the treated areas as too much medicine can be absorbed into your body. You are advised to store the gel at room temperature.

Your doctor may recommend that you avoid consuming spicy foods, hot foods or drinks and alcohol because these can cause flushing or redness of the skin during treatment.

Clinical Studies on Finacea

In the last few years several studies have been undertaken looking at whether Finacea is an effective rosacea treatment. The results have been extremely promising, showing that 15% azelaic acid gel (Finacea) was significantly better at reducing redness of the skin, papules and pustules than other preparations. In fact 15% azelaic acid gel was found to be superior to metronadzaole gel (another prescribed topical treatment), in that it had longer lasting effects and greater overall improvement.

Many people have found that Finacea gel greatly improved their symptoms and was more beneficial than other prescribed topical medications. As with other rosacea treatments, Finacea Gel is not an instant cure and it may be several weeks before a significant improvement is experienced.