Recognizing and Treating Ocular Rosacea in Darker Skin Tones

IPL, laser, and LLLT should be chosen carefully for safety across the spectrum of skin tones.

By
Sarah Fackler, managing editor, Optometric Management
January 1, 2026
4 min

Optometric Management

Objective:

To address the recognition and treatment of ocular rosacea in patients with darker skin tones, highlighting the differences in presentation and treatment protocols, particularly regarding safety and efficacy.

Approach:

Key Findings:

Ocular rosacea is underrecognized in darker skin tones due to subtle presentation, impacting treatment efficacy.
Common manifestations include eyelid telangiectasia, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, and minimal visible redness, which complicate diagnosis.
IPL combined with meibomian gland expression yields superior results compared to either treatment alone, highlighting the need for tailored approaches.

Interpretation:

The findings underscore the importance of tailored treatment approaches and increased education for healthcare providers regarding ocular rosacea in darker skin tones.

Limitations:

Lack of representation of darker skin tones in epidemiologic studies and clinical trials.
Potential for underdiagnosis due to subtle clinical signs.
Need for more diverse clinical trials to improve treatment protocols.

Conclusion:

Customized treatment protocols and increased awareness among healthcare providers are essential for effectively managing ocular rosacea in patients with darker skin tones.